Ejari Guide: Simple Steps to Register, Renew and Keep Your Rental Safe

If you’re moving into a new apartment in Dubai, the first thing you’ll hear about is Ejari. It’s the official rental registration that protects both tenant and landlord. Without it, you can’t get a visa, a utility bill or even a bank loan tied to your address. The good news? Doing Ejari is quick and cheap if you follow the right steps.

Why Ejari Matters

Ejari turns your rental agreement into a government‑recorded contract. That means the rent amount, lease length and any extra clauses are stored in the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) database. If a dispute pops up, you have proof that the contract is legal. It also helps the Dubai government track the housing market, which keeps rent hikes in check. In short, it’s a safety net for you.

Step‑by‑Step: Registering and Renewing Your Ejari

Here’s the fastest way to get your Ejari done:

1. **Gather the papers** – You need a signed tenancy contract, your passport copy, Emirates ID and the landlord’s passport copy. If the landlord is a company, you’ll need the trade licence too.

2. **Choose a submission method** – You can go to an approved typing centre, use the Dubai Now app, or book an appointment with a RERA office. The app is the quickest; you upload photos and pay the AED 220 fee online.

3. **Submit and wait** – After you submit, the system takes a few minutes to verify. You’ll receive an Ejari number and a PDF receipt. Print it out and keep it with your other lease documents.

4. **Renewal** – When your lease is about to end, start the renewal at least 30 days before. The process is the same, but you’ll need the new contract. Some landlords handle it for you, so ask them first.

If anything looks wrong on the receipt, call the typing centre or check the app. Mistakes are easy to fix before they become a problem.

**Tips to avoid common hiccups**:

• Make sure the landlord’s name matches the name on the contract.
• Double‑check the rent amount; even a small typo can delay the process.
• Keep digital copies of all documents – the app lets you store them safely.
• If you’re subletting, both the main tenant and sub‑tenant need to be listed.

Doing Ejari isn’t just a legal box to tick; it’s peace of mind. Once it’s done, you can focus on enjoying your new home, setting up your internet, and exploring Dubai without worrying about paperwork.

Got a question about a specific case? Drop a comment below and we’ll help you sort it out. Happy renting!