Guide to Ejari Online Registration Services in Dubai: Tenants and Landlords

Need a smooth rental process?

Want to avoid extra stress?

Ejari in Dubai solves these issues.

Want to ensure your rental contract is official? Ejari in Dubai also meets that need for you.

Ejari keeps your rental records valid. It ensures that tenants and landlords follow clear rules. Below is an in-depth guide for 2024 on what Ejari is, why it matters, and how to manage it from start to finish.

What Is Ejari?

Ejari is a digital system set up by the Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA). Ejari means “My Rent” in Arabic. It keeps track of all rental contracts in Dubai and protects tenant and landlord rights. The Dubai Land Department (DLD) introduced Ejari in 2007. Recent records show that about 98% of new contracts are registered with Ejari.

Why It Matters

• Legal Proof: Dubai law says all leases must be registered.
• No Utility Delays: You need Ejari for water (DEWA) and electricity services. Without it, you cannot finalize services like water or electricity.
• Dispute Prevention: Having the contract online reduces the chance of confusion at any later stages.
• Stronger Security: If a dispute occurs, you can visit court for help, but only if you have a valid Ejari certificate.
• Fast Government Tasks: Renewing visas or registering family members sometimes needs valid Ejari proof.
• Commercial licenses. When registering a trade license in DED, an Ejari certificate is also required for mainland Dubai Business Setup.

Key Point: An Ejari certificate is not just paper. It gives legal cover if disputes occur. A court might dismiss your case outright if your contract is not registered in Ejari.

Who Can Register for Ejari?

• Landlords: They are responsible under Dubai rules.
• Tenants: In practice, tenants usually handle the registration and pay the fee.
• Real Estate Agencies: They can handle the process on behalf of landlords or tenants.

Tip: Make sure the entire rent amount, deposit details, and contract terms are stated before you register.

Quick Tips for Tenants

1. Check Landlord’s Name: Compare the contract name to the one on the title deed.
2. Save Extra Costs: Register promptly to avoid utility delays or fines.
3. Keep Copies Handy: Have digital versions of your contract and Ejari for quick reference.

Quick Tips for Landlords

1. Track Payment Dates: Ejari can help keep rent due dates organized.
2. Request Updated IDs: Make sure tenant documents are valid at registration time.
3. Stay Informed: Watch for new fee updates or official changes. DLD sometimes revises costs or processes.

How to Register for Ejari?

Option 1: Offline at Typing Centers

• Bring copies of your tenancy contract, Emirates ID (or passport), title deed, and any power of attorney if needed.
• Fill out the application form at an Ejari Trustee center.
• Pay the fee (around AED 219.75, including VAT).
• Wait for your Ejari certificate (1-2 days).

Option 2: Online or via Mobile Apps

• Use the Dubai REST or Dubai Now apps.
• Upload your documents (tenancy contract, ID, ownership proof).
• The landlord receives a notice to approve your request on their app.
• Pay the fee (around AED 155 excluding VAT + extra charges).
• Get your Ejari certificate by email or via the app.

What are the Documents needed for Ejari?

Checklist for Ejari

1. Signed Tenancy Contract
2. Tenant’s ID (Emirates ID or passport for non-GCC nationals)
3. Landlord’s ID or passport copy
4. Title Deed Copy (shows property ownership)
5. Security Deposit Receipt (if applicable)
6. Power of Attorney (if a representative signs for the landlord)
7. Trade License (for commercial properties)
8. Previous Ejari Certificate (if you are renewing)
9. DEWA Bill (sometimes needed for renewal or proof of address)

Make sure each document is current. Old or invalid documents can delay the process.

Is Ejari Mandatory for All Rentals?

Yes. If you rent a studio, villa, office, or shop, you must register that contract in Ejari. Doing so allows you to follow local laws and help create a more transparent housing market. Also, without Ejari, you cannot set up utilities like DEWA or complete some visa procedures.

Who Registers the Contract?

• Landlords: The law makes them responsible for Ejari.
• Tenants: In practice, tenants usually handle the registration and pay the fee.
• Real Estate Agents or Property Managers: They often submit documents on the owner’s or tenant’s behalf.

Make sure each document is current. Old or invalid documents can delay the process.

How to Register for Ejari?

1. Offline at Trustee Centers

• Visit an Approved Center: Trustees are located in areas like Al Manara, Al Kifaf, and Al Qusais.
• Fill Out a Form: Provide the property address, contract dates, rent amount, and landlord-tenant details.
• Pay the Fee: Offline registration often costs around AED 219.75, including VAT.
• Processing: It can take 1-2 working days once documents are complete.

Working Hours: Many centers run from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on weekdays and shorter hours on Fridays. Check exact timings online or by phone.

How to online Register for Ejari?

1. Online or Through Mobile Apps

• Dubai Land Department Website: Use the Ejari system to upload documents.
• Dubai REST App or Dubai Now App: Register your tenancy by entering the required details.
• Landlord Approval: The landlord (or their agent) confirms your submission using the same app.
• Fee Payment: Online registration usually costs AED 155, excluding VAT, plus an AED 10 knowledge fee and an AED 10 innovation fee.
• Ejari Certificate Issued: You get a unique Ejari ID number and barcode. Download the Ejari pdf certificate and print it as needed.

Important: For online approval to work smoothly, the landlord must have an active profile in the Ejari system or the Dubai REST app.

What is the validity of the Ejari certificate?

Ejari is valid for one year only.

Ejari Fees and Timeline

• Offline Registration: About AED 219.75 including VAT
• Online Registration: About AED 155 + knowledge and innovation fees
• Processing Time: 1 to 2 working days in most cases

Fact: In December 2024, DLD data shows 120,000 new registrations in one month. That is a 15% rise compared to last year.

How to renewing Your Ejari?

You must renew your Ejari each year if you stay in the same property. You also renew if you move to another unit and sign a fresh lease. The renewal fee is the same as registering. If your old Ejari is still active, you must cancel it before setting up the new one.

Steps to Renew

1. Log In: Visit ejari.ae or open the Dubai REST app.
2. Choose Your Contract: Select the lease that is up for renewal.
3. Upload Updated Documents: New contract, latest DEWA bill, and any revised details.
4. Pay the Renewal Fee: Same cost structure as first-time registration.
5. Obtain the New Certificate: The system generates a new Ejari number.

Tip: You need your updated contract and a recent DEWA bill if you are renewing at a new address.

Is Ejari Mandatory for All Rentals?

Yes. If you rent a studio, villa, office, or shop, you must register that contract in Ejari. Doing so allows you to follow local laws and help create a more transparent housing market. Also, without Ejari, you cannot set up utilities like DEWA or complete some visa procedures.

How to Cancel an Ejari Certificate?

• Who Can Cancel? The tenant, landlord, or real estate agent can initiate the process.
• Why Cancel?: If you move out early or the tenancy ends, the old Ejari must be canceled. Otherwise, you cannot register using a new address.
• Offline Method: Bring the Ejari certificate, signed termination letter, a copy of the tenancy contract, IDs of tenant and owner, DEWA bill, and No Objection Certificate to a Trustee center.
• Online Method: Upload the unified tenancy contract, mention the reason for cancellation, and wait for approval.

Reminder: You cannot register a new Ejari for a different property if the old one is still active.

If the Ejari Certificate is canceled at the landlord’s request, they must show a letter stating the reason.

Ejari and Its Links to Other Services

• DEWA: You need your Ejari number barcode or Ejari ID to start water and electricity.
• Internet and Phone: Telecom firms require a valid Ejari to set up lines.
• Business Licenses: Commercial tenants must show a valid Office Ejari for the company licensing process.
• Residence Visas: Visa renewal and family sponsorship often demand a valid Ejari certificate.

Key Takeaways for Tenants and Landlords

• Always Register: Helps avoid legal trouble and delays with utilities.
• Keep Documents Updated: Make sure passports, Emirates IDs, and title deeds are current.
• Remember Renewal: Each year or new lease period, get an updated Ejari.
• Don’t Forget Cancellation: If you leave a property, confirm your old Ejari is canceled.

Common Questions and Answers

1. Can I Do Ejari Myself?

Yes. You can gather the documents and register online or visit a Trustee center.

2. Is Ejari the Same as a Tenancy Contract?

No. Your tenancy contract has the terms and rent details. Ejari is the official registration of that contract in the RERA system. Ejari makes the tenancy official under Dubai law.

3. How Do I Download My Tenancy Contract?

To download an official copy, use the UAE Pass app or the Dubai REST app. The system checks your Emirates ID for registered contracts.

4. Is Ejari Mandatory for Commercial Rentals Too?

Yes. Commercial and residential leases must be registered under Ejari.

5. Is Ejari Valid for Commercial Leases Too?

Yes. Both commercial and residential contracts must be recorded.

6. How Do I Download My Tenancy Contract?

Use the Dubai REST or UAE Pass apps. The system checks your Emirates ID.

7. Is Ejari Needed for Utility Setup?

Yes. DEWA and other services require a valid Ejari certificate.