What is Ejari? How to Register it in Dubai?

Ejari, meaning “my rent” in Arabic, was introduced by the Dubai Land Department (DLD) in 2007. The system was created to address challenges such as disputes, unregistered leases, and a lack of transparency in Dubai’s rental market. Before Ejari in Dubai, tenancy agreements were private contracts with no central record. 

This made it difficult for authorities to track rentals or enforce the rights of tenants and landlords. Ejari standardized the process, ensuring all leases are officially recorded, legally recognized, and accessible for government oversight. 

The Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA), a division of the DLD, oversees this registration process and sets rental rules. It monitors compliance and enforces penalties under Ejari regulations. Ejari in Dubai links directly with the UAE property law by giving tenancy contracts legal recognition. 

In the UAE, especially in Dubai, the law recognizes rental agreements as valid only after Ejari registration. Once a lease is registered through Ejari, it becomes an enforceable legal document. 

The Ejari registration service supports Dubai’s vision of a regulated, transparent real estate market for both residents and investors.

Why is Ejari Registration Important? 

Ejari registration provides legal protection for both tenants and landlords by officially recording the tenancy contract. Here’s how they benefit from registering for an Ejari in Dubai: 

• Legal Protection: An Ejari ensures that rental agreements are enforceable in Dubai courts. 
• Mandatory for Utilities: Connecting services like Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), internet, and phone requires a valid Ejari certificate. Without it, service providers may refuse connections.
• Proof of Residence: Ejari serves as proof of residence for visa applications, Emirates ID registration, and other immigration processes. 
• Dispute Resolution: In case of rental conflicts or disagreements, an Ejari-registered contract provides a clear legal record, helping resolve disputes efficiently.
• Business and Commercial Requirements: Ejari is required for commercial leases, including office spaces. It is also needed when registering a business or renewing or securing a commercial trade license in Dubai.

Ejari registration is a crucial step for anyone renting or leasing property in Dubai. Whether for personal or business purposes, completing Ejari registration is necessary. It keeps your tenancy fully compliant with Dubai’s laws and helps avoid disputes in the future.

Ejari registration can be completed by:

• Tenant or Landlord Directly: Either party can register the tenancy contract themselves through the official system.
• Authorized Representative: A person holding a valid Power of Attorney (POA) can register on behalf of the tenant or landlord.
• Real Estate Management Companies: Companies with access to the Ejari system can register contracts for their clients.

Common mistakes include unauthorized registration, using expired POA documents, or incomplete tenant/landlord details. This can significantly delay the process or invalidate the registration.

To successfully register Ejari, certain documents and contract details must be provided. The documentation requirements are divided into the following two sections: 

Documentation Checklist

Documents needed for Ejrai Dubai registration:

1. Original Signed Tenancy Contract: The contract must be legally signed by both the tenant and landlord. This serves as the primary document for registration.
2. Tenant Emirates ID: A valid emirate-issued ID is required for all tenants. This confirms the tenant’s identity and residency status.
3. Passport & Visa Copies: Non-Gulf Cooperation Council nationals must provide passport and visa copies to verify their legal stay in the UAE.
4. Landlord Passport or Company Trade License: Individual landlords need to provide a passport copy. Companies acting as landlords must submit their valid trade license.
5. Title Deed of the Property: This confirms that the landlord legally owns the property being leased.
6. Security Deposit Receipt: A proof of the paid security deposit is required, showing the financial commitment of the tenant.
7. DEWA Bill / Previous Ejari (for renewals): For renewals, either the latest DEWA bill or the previous Ejari certificate must be submitted. This is required to link the new registration to the existing lease.

Ejari Contract Requirements

To register Ejari, the tenancy contract must include the following details about the parties, rent, and property: 

1. Names of Tenants and Landlords: Full legal names must match official documents.
2. Rent Amount and Lease Duration: The monthly or yearly rent and the start and end dates of the tenancy must be clearly stated.
3. Property Address and Details: Full address, including building number, street, and apartment or office number, must be included. Additional property details may be required for clarity and verification.

Need hassle-free Ejari registration services in Dubai? Safe Ledger helps tenants, landlords, and businesses complete Ejari quickly with 100% compliance. Contact us today!

To make Ejari registration simple, multiple channels can be used. Here’s a clear breakdown:

1. Online Registration

Various apps can be used for online Ejari registration in Dubai. Platforms or apps such as the Dubai REST, the DubaiNow, and the DLD Ejari portal are mainly prevalent. 

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Create or log in to your account on the chosen platform.
2. Upload the required documents: tenancy contract, Emirates ID, passport/visa copies, landlord documents, DEWA bill, etc.
3. Fill in property and contract details accurately.
4. Review the information and submit the registration request.
5. Pay the applicable Ejari fees online.

Confirmation and Download:

• Registration is usually confirmed within a few minutes to 24 hours.
• Once approved, the Ejari certificate can be downloaded directly from the platform in PDF format.

The description above answers the question of how to apply for Ejari online in Dubai. It is an easy and straightforward process.

2. Offline Registration

Offline registration can be done at authorized Ejari typing centers or Trustee offices.

Walk-in Process:

1. Visit the nearest authorized center with all required documents.
2. Submit your tenancy and identification documents for verification.
3. The center staff enters the data into the Ejari system on your behalf.
4. Pay the registration fee at the center.
5. Collect your Ejari certificate once processing is complete.

Tips for registration:

• Ensure all documents are complete and originals are available for verification.
• Arrive during non-peak hours to avoid long queues.

3. WhatsApp and Other New Channels

Authorities have introduced digital channels, including WhatsApp services, to simplify Ejari registration and renewals.

How do they work? 

1. Submit scanned copies of tenancy and ID documents via the official WhatsApp number.
2. Follow the automated prompts to provide contract and property details.
3. Digital verification is done by the authorities.

Tips for Smooth Submission:

• Ensure scanned documents are clear and readable.
• Double-check contract details before sending.
• Save the confirmation message or reference number for tracking.

These multiple registration channels make Ejari flexible and accessible for tenants, landlords, and authorized representatives.

Ejari registration typically ranges from about AED 120-250 when done online or at trustee/typing centres. Costs may also vary depending on the registration method and any additional service charges.

1. Government Fee Breakdown

Dubai Land Department has set standard Ejari fees for tenancy registration:

• Base Registration Fee: AED 100
• Knowledge Fee: AED 10 (supports real estate education)
• Innovation Fee: AED 10 (technology & system improvements)

Total government fees online are around AED 120-155, depending on VAT and the platform used. 

2. Online vs Offline Cost Comparison

The fees for online and offline Ejari registration may vary depending on the platform, service fees, and VAT applied.

• Online Registration (Dubai REST / DLD portal): AED 177.75 total, including partner service charges (AED 100 + AED 10 + AED 10 + AED 55 + VAT). 
• Offline at Trustee/Typing Centres: AED 220 total, including service partner fees and VAT. 

Online is usually cheaper and faster, while offline may cost more because of service charges. 

3. Additional Service Fees

Typing or trustee center fees, as well as charges for hiring private services, can vary depending on the service. Approximate costs include:

• Typing center or trustee office charges vary by location.
• Real estate management companies or agents may charge a professional service fee separately if you ask them to handle the process. These are not official government fees.

Many charge around AED 200-500 or more for convenience and handling.

Legally, there’s no fixed rule on who pays Ejari fees. Many tenants usually cover the cost when they register themselves. In some cases, landlords include it in the rent or share the fee. Always review your tenancy contract to know who is responsible.

Renewal of Ejari is required whenever a tenancy contract expires or is extended. This ensures uninterrupted access to services linked to Ejari. In case the tenant wants to end the contract early, the Ejari registration must be cancelled. The process includes: 

Renewal Process and Timeline

The renewal process can either be completed online or offline based on your preference. The process includes:

• Submit the updated tenancy contract before the current Ejari expires.
• Renewal can be done online via the Dubai REST app, DubaiNow, or the DLD portal.
• Renewal can also be done offline at an authorized Ejari typing center.
• If all documents are correct, the renewal is usually processed quickly.
• It’s recommended to start the renewal a few weeks before expiry to avoid delays.

If all documents are correct, Online Ejari renewal is typically processed within a few minutes to 24 hours. Offline renewals may take 1-2 business days, depending on the center’s workload.

Ejari Cancellation and Amendment Process

If a tenancy contract is terminated early, Ejari must be cancelled. Both the tenant and the landlord or their authorized representative can request cancellation. For amendments such as changes in rent amount or tenant details, submit and register the updated contract.

You can submit cancellation and amendment requests online or through authorized typing centers.

What Happens if You Don’t Renew in Time

Failing to renew Ejari on time can lead to several issues:

• Loss of Valid Registration: Your Ejari certificate becomes outdated and legally inactive.
• Service Delays or Denials: DEWA connections, visa services, Emirates ID updates, and other linked services may be delayed or refused.
• Fines and Penalties: Authorities may impose fines for non‑compliance with tenancy registration rules.
• Dispute Challenges: In rental disputes, an expired Ejari makes it harder to prove the validity of your tenancy contract, weakening your legal position.

Renewing Ejari promptly helps avoid these complications and keeps your tenancy fully compliant with Dubai’s regulations.

Ejari Verification and Downloading Process

Dubai’s system allows tenants and landlords to confirm contract validity, track registration status, and obtain official proof of tenancy. Knowing how to verify and download Ejari helps you avoid delays in essential services. 

Follow these steps to verify and download your records: 

• Open the Dubai REST app or the DubaiNow app.
• Log in using Emirates ID or Ejari number.
• Check the current Ejari registration status.
• Select the approved Ejari record.
• Download the Ejari certificate directly from the app.
• Choose the reprint option if you need another copy.
• Save or print the certificate for future use.

Keeping your Ejari verified and easily accessible ensures smooth access to government and utility services.

Ejari registration can face delays if key details are incorrect or missing. Knowing the most common issues helps you prepare better and avoid rejections during submission.

• Title deed mismatch: This happens when property details do not match DLD records. Always verify the title deed number and unit details before submission.
• Landlord online access issues: Some landlords lack active Dubai REST or UAE Pass access. Coordinate early to avoid approval delays.
• Incorrect Emirates ID or passport data: Even small spelling errors can cause rejection. Double-check names, ID numbers, and expiry dates.
• Missing DEWA premises number: Ejari needs a valid DEWA premises number. Confirm it from the DEWA bill or the landlord before applying.
• Ejari showing “already rented”: This usually means the previous Ejari was not canceled. Request the landlord or prior tenant to complete the Ejari cancellation through DLD channels.

Addressing these issues early ensures a smoother Ejari registration process. 

Ejari registration plays a vital role in Dubai’s rental system. It gives legal recognition to tenancy contracts. It also helps tenants and landlords stay compliant with property regulations. A valid Ejari ensures smooth access to essential services like DEWA, internet, and visa processing.

SafeLedger specializes in providing end-to-end support for Ejari registration services in Dubai. We offer tailored services for both residential and commercial tenancy contracts. The company accurately registers every rental agreement with the DLD through the official Ejari system, ensuring full legal validity of the contracts.

Our expertise extends to handling document verification, title deed checks, and compliance requirements, making the process easy for clients.