Renting an Apartment in Dubai: Ejari, Deposits and Move-In Costs

Set a complete housing budget

The advertised annual rent is only the starting point. Ask for a written schedule covering payment dates, security deposit, brokerage fee, Ejari, DEWA deposit and activation, cooling, internet, parking, access cards and moving permits. Do not assume a fee is standard simply because it is common; tie every payment to the contract, invoice and responsible party.

Dubai Electricity and Water Authority lists a refundable security deposit of AED 2,000 for a flat and AED 4,000 for a villa. Its published small-meter activation total is AED 155, consisting of AED 125 activation, AED 10 registration, AED 10 knowledge fee and AED 10 innovation fee. Check the current DEWA page because meter type and charges can differ.

Verify the property and landlord

Before transferring a holding deposit, verify the broker, the advertised property, the owner or authorised representative and the payment instructions. Inspect the exact unit and record its condition. The tenancy contract should state the property, rent, payment schedule, term, deposit, maintenance responsibilities, notice requirements and agreed special conditions.

Avoid cash without a receipt. Confirm whose name appears on each cheque or transfer and why. If a representative signs, ask for valid authority. Keep the listing, messages, identification, receipts, contract and condition photographs together.

Register Ejari

Ejari records the tenancy contract with Dubai Land Department. DLD’s Register/Renew Ejari service lists an online total of AED 177.75 through the website or Dubai REST app and AED 220 through a real-estate services trustee centre. The online process requires a unified tenancy contract; centre applications require identification and supporting authority where relevant.

Complete Ejari promptly because it is used for services including DEWA move-in. Check that the names, unit and dates match the signed contract. Save the certificate and application receipt.

Activate utilities and plan access

DEWA says tenants need Ejari to activate electricity and water. Its service page lists connection within 15 working hours after requirements are completed. Cooling may be included in rent, billed through a district-cooling provider or handled another way; confirm the account, deposit and fixed charges before signing.

Ask building management about move-in approval, lift booking, contractor insurance, loading access and timing. A building permit can delay a move even when the tenancy is valid.

Inspect before accepting keys

Create a room-by-room record of paint, floors, appliances, AC, plumbing, windows, locks, keys, parking remotes and meters. Send timestamped photographs and the defect list through a traceable channel. Record meter readings. Agree in writing which defects will be repaired and by when.

At renewal or move-out, use the contract and official DLD/RERA resources for notice and dispute questions. Do not rely on a social-media claim about rent increases or notice periods when the dates and wording determine your position.