The Ejari system was introduced in 2010 and has since become a central element of the Dubai property market. Registration is a legal requirement for all tenancies and must be completed within 30 days of signing the tenancy agreement.
You will need the following documents to register:
- Original of the rental agreement
- Copies of the tenant's and landlord's passports
- Title Deed (proof of ownership) of the property
- Current DEWA bill (electricity and water supply)
- Commercial licence (for commercial use)
The Advantages of the Ejari system are manifold:
- Legal certainty through official documentation
- Transparency in rental prices and contract terms
- Avoidance of fraud and illegal lettings
- Basis for rental disputes before the Rental Dispute Centre
Registration can be done online via the Dubai REST portal or at authorised typing centres. The fees are around AED 220 and processing usually takes 2-3 working days. After successful registration, you will receive an Ejari certificate, which is required for many other official procedures, such as
- Applying for a residence visa
- Registration of DEWA services
- Opening a bank account
- Registration of telecommunications services
For Foreign investors and tenants it is important to realise that without Ejari registration, many everyday transactions in Dubai are not possible. Registration also serves as protection against inflated rental prices, as the system provides access to average rental prices in different areas of Dubai.
Failure to comply with the registration obligation can result in considerable penalties. It is therefore advisable to carry out the Ejari registration promptly after signing the contract and, if in doubt, to seek advice from a local property expert.
Deutsch 
English (UK)