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Tenants Guide

How to Rent a Property in Dubai: A Guide by Rhem Properties

Ready to find your new home? Before you start the search, here’s a quick guide to renting property in Dubai and what to expect along the way.

1. Find a Consultant | Find a Property | Make Your Move Simple

Dubai’s rental market has something for everyone—beachfront apartments, high-rise towers, and quiet villa communities. Before diving in, let’s go through the essentials for a smooth renting experience.

2. What You’ll Need to Rent a Property

Before starting your property search, make sure your documents and budget are in order.

Personal Documents

For long-term rentals (typically annual), you’ll need a passport, residency visa, and Emirates ID. Non-UAE residents can consider short-term rentals or holiday homes, which don’t require a residency visa.

Budget

Determine how much you can comfortably spend. Most rentals require a security deposit (5% of the annual rent for unfurnished, 10% for furnished properties), which is refundable at the end of your tenancy. If working with an agency, expect to pay an agency fee, typically around 5% of the rental value.

3. When, Where, and What to Rent

Start your search 1-2 months before your planned move-in date, as popular listings can be leased quickly.

Location

Dubai offers over 200 communities, each with unique lifestyles. Use our Area Guides to narrow down your preferred neighbourhoods, then consult with a Rhem Properties agent who specializes in that area.

Property Type

From apartments and townhouses to villas and penthouses, your choice will depend on your budget and needs. Your consultant will help you evaluate properties with the best amenities for you. Once you find the perfect home, you’ll negotiate terms with the landlord (rental price, number of cheques, contract start date, etc.), as well as discuss conditions like decoration preferences, pet policies, and furnishings.

4. Regulations and Additional Costs

After agreeing on terms, you’ll sign the tenancy contract, which defines your rights and obligations. Dubai’s rental market is regulated by the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA), protecting tenants with laws like the 12-month notice period for evictions.

Additional Costs: Alongside the agency fee, plan for the refundable security deposit, generally 5% of annual rent (or 10% for furnished). These additional costs are essential to factor in for a stress-free leasing process.
Whether you’re new to Dubai or relocating within the city, Rhem Properties is here to guide you every step of the way. Happy house hunting!

FAQ LIST

Frequently Asked Questions
for Tenants Guide

Discover answers to key tenant questions, from leasing timelines and choosing between short-term and long-term rentals to setting up DEWA, understanding Ejari, and preparing essential documents. Simplify your rental journey with expert guidance.

The leasing process can vary depending on your timeline, the completeness of your documentation, and whether you’re working with a reputable real estate agency. Some clients secure their rentals within as little as two days, but this isn’t guaranteed for every situation.

After securing your rental, the earliest possible move-in date is usually about five days from contract signing. This timeframe allows for essential steps, including registering your Ejari (tenancy registration), activating electricity and water services, and obtaining your move-in permit. Your Property Consultant will give you a more tailored estimate based on your specific situation and timeline.

Both options have their advantages and depend on your personal needs:

  • Long-Term Leasing – Ideal for UAE residents looking for stability with an annual lease. You’ll have the option to furnish the property yourself or opt for a pre-furnished one. The rental price is locked in for the year, and payment terms (one or multiple post-dated cheques) can be arranged with the landlord.
  • Short-Term Leasing – Suitable for non-residents or those who plan to stay in Dubai temporarily. Fully furnished short-term rentals provide flexibility; they’re equipped with everything from furniture to kitchen essentials. Simply pack your suitcase and move out when the lease ends.

Your Property Consultant can guide you on which option best aligns with your circumstances.

Ejari, which means “my rent” in Arabic, is a government service that officially registers tenancy contracts in Dubai. After signing your lease, you’ll need to visit an Ejari center (or complete the process online) with required documents, which your Property Consultant will inform you of. The registration fee is AED 215 + 5% VAT.

Ejari registration is necessary for legal compliance and enables tenants to access utilities and other essential services linked to the property.

Once your Ejari registration is complete, Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) will send you a welcome SMS and email with your account and premises number, along with a link to pay the security deposit. Once the deposit is paid, DEWA will activate electricity and water services within 24 hours.

DEWA Charges:

  • Security Deposit – AED 2,000 for apartments and AED 4,000 for villas.
  • Activation Fee – AED 130 + 5% VAT.

Need help? Our team offers a service to register both your DEWA and Ejari for a fee of AED 1,400 (VAT included) to simplify the process.

Once you’ve chosen your rental, you’ll need to complete the following paperwork:

  • Tenancy Contract – This agreement outlines the terms of your lease. Review it with your Property Consultant before signing to ensure you understand all clauses. After both you and the landlord sign, each party will keep a copy.
  • Cheque(s) – Depending on the agreement, you may pay rent through post-dated cheques or electronic payments. Popular properties often require an upfront cheque for the entire year, but some landlords may accept quarterly or even monthly cheques.

Make sure you have the agreed number of cheques and the security deposit ready (in cheque or cash, depending on the landlord’s preference). Your Property Consultant will handle the transfer to the landlord and provide receipts.

Most likely, yes. Many communities and apartment complexes in Dubai require tenants to obtain a move-in permit. This permit allows movers to access roads and common areas to deliver your belongings. However, in some areas without shared facilities, a permit may not be necessary.

If a move-in permit is needed, our Customer Service team will email you with instructions and links to apply, making the process as seamless as possible.

Yes, businesses in Free Zones can expand by acquiring additional property or assets within the same Free Zone. However, you may face some limitations when operating outside the Free Zone, as certain commercial activities might require a Mainland license.

Choosing the right location depends on your business type, target market, and budget. Key business districts like DIFC and Downtown Dubai are ideal for financial services and luxury retail, while areas like Dubai South and Al Quoz may be better for logistics and manufacturing.

Depending on whether you’re in a Free Zone or Mainland, you may need a commercial license, relevant permits, and compliance with Dubai’s local regulations. It’s advisable to work with a consultant to ensure all legalities are taken care of before starting operations.

Yes, financing options are available for both residents and non-residents, although commercial property loans generally have stricter criteria compared to residential loans. It’s best to work with a local bank or financial institution to understand your options.

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