What is EJARI?
The word Ejari is an Arabic word that translates to “my rent”, but in this context, Ejari is a system that regulates the contract between landlord and tenants in Dubai. It was launched in 2007 through a Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) initiative, under the provisions of “Law 26 of 2007 by RERA”.
Because Ejari is very important in Dubai, we will walk you through the system step by step to make sure all your questions are answered, like “how much will my Ejari cost?” or “where can I register my Ejari?”
Is Ejari mandatory in Dubai?
The answer is yes. Ejari registration is mandatory.
The system is in place to make sure all private rental contracts are drafted into legally binding documents and structured in the government-approved format.
Ejari is important because it keeps all your information protected and organized, and keeps those records at the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) and the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA). Another useful aspect about Ejari is that this contract guarantees your right to go to court if you have any issues with your landlord, and have the court look into your case. If you are not registered with Ejari, the court will automatically dismiss your case.
How To Register Ejari
Registering the tenancy contract with the Ejari is the responsibility of the landlord. Typically, the landlord will assign this to the real estate agent. However, in practice the tenant will complete the process and pay the required fees.
You must be sure that all deposits, contract duration and rent amounts are clearly stated in your Ejari. You can register on Ejari here or via the Ejari app as well.
Registering your tenancy contract with Ejari will cost you AED 220 at the typing centre. You can head to the typing centres in Al Manara Centre, Al Barsha Mall, Oud Metha, Port Saeed or Zabeel to register your Ejari. The Ejari desk is open from 8am to 8pm from Sunday to Thursday and 9am to 2pm on Saturday. During Ramadan, the Ejari desks are open from 8.30am to 4.30pm on weekdays only.
You will need to fill out a registration form when you arrive, so make sure you have your new address and tenancy contract number with you along with copies of the following documents.
DOCUMENTS REQUIRED TO REGISTER WITH EJARI
- Original signed tenancy contract
- Security deposit receipt
- Tenant’s Passport (for non-GCC countries nationals)
- Tenant’s UAE Visa (for non-GCC countries nationals)
- Tenant’s Emirates ID
- Copies of landlord’s passport (if individual)
- Copy of a valid power of attorney document (if the contract has been signed by a PoA). Power of attorney documents must be renewed every years to remain valid.
- Copy of title deed of the rented property
- 9-digit DEWA Premises Number (or copies of recent DEWA bills/Green bill accepted)
- DEWA bill and previous Ejari if you are renewing
- Trade license (in the case of commercial properties)
Once the registration is complete, you will receive the official Ejari contract, which includes a unique Ejari ID number. You will use this number to register for your DEWA account, which you can now conveniently do online.