Dubai · Tenancy contract
Your Dubai Tenancy Contract
What the contract must include, what to check before you sign — and exactly what it costs to move in.
Upfront cost calculator
What the contract must include
- The full names of the landlord and tenant (and agent, if any)
- The property details and Ejari / premises number
- The annual rent and how it's paid (number of cheques)
- The contract start and end dates
- The security deposit amount and refund terms
- Who pays for maintenance, DEWA and chiller/cooling
- Renewal and early-termination terms
More on tenancy contracts
What to check before you sign
The rent vs the index
Check where the rent sits against the RERA index — it sets next year's maximum increase.
Number of cheques
Fewer cheques (1–2) often means a higher effective price; more cheques ease cash flow.
Maintenance & cooling
Confirm in writing who pays for maintenance and chiller — these add up fast.
Early-exit penalty
Know the notice period and penalty (often 1–2 months' rent) before you sign.
It will be registered on Ejari
An unregistered contract can't be enforced at the RDC — insist on Ejari.
The standard form is the Unified Tenancy Contract issued via the Dubai REST app / DLD — use it, and make sure it's registered on Ejari. Then check next year's increase with the Rent Increase Calculator.
Common questions
What must a Dubai tenancy contract include?
The names of both parties, the property and Ejari details, the annual rent and payment schedule, the start and end dates, the security deposit and its refund terms, who pays for maintenance/DEWA/cooling, and the renewal and termination terms.
How much are the upfront costs of renting in Dubai?
Typically a 5% agency commission (plus 5% VAT), a refundable security deposit of 5% (unfurnished) or 10% (furnished), Ejari registration of around AED 220, and a refundable DEWA deposit of AED 2,000–4,000 plus activation. Use the calculator above for your rent.
Where do I get the Unified Tenancy Contract?
The standard Unified Tenancy Contract is issued through the Dubai REST app / Dubai Land Department. Use the official form and register it on Ejari — avoid signing unregistered side-agreements.
Is a tenancy contract valid without Ejari?
A signed contract is an agreement, but without Ejari registration you can't connect DEWA, sponsor a visa, or enforce the contract at the Rental Disputes Center. Always register it.