Ejari is an Arabic word meaning “my rent.” It is the official tenancy contract registration system introduced by the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) under the Dubai Land Department. It provides a standard format for tenancy contracts. Ejari registration is mandatory and is required for services such as visa renewals, DEWA connections, and other government-related procedures linked to proof of residence. The system was introduced on 14 March 2010 pursuant to Law No. 26 of 2007 with the objective of ensuring that tenancy agreements in Dubai are transparent, standardised, and legally recognised.
Renewal of Tenancy Contract
Post-Dated Cheques and Contract Renewal
When the tenant renews the tenancy contract, fresh post-dated cheques must be issued for the renewed rental period. Any cheques issued under the previous tenancy contract should be formally cancelled, returned, or destroyed. If the old cheques are retained, disputes may arise if they are presented for payment under the expired contract.
Updating Lease Terms in the Registered Contract
If there are any amendments to the tenancy contract, they should be included in the renewed tenancy contract. This includes revised rent, additional clauses or conditions, side agreements, etc.
Rent Increase Regulations
Landlords may only increase rent within the limits permitted under the RERA Rental Index Calculator. If the increase exceeds the permissible limit, tenants may challenge the increase before the Rental Disputes Centre even if the tenancy contract has already been signed.
Role of the Rental Disputes Centre (RDC)
Rental disputes in Dubai are resolved by the Rental Disputes Centre under the Dubai Land Department. Decisions of the RDC have the force of a court judgment. Proceedings are generally faster than ordinary court proceedings.
Ejari Renewal Fees and Processing Time
- Online: Fee: AED 100 + AED 20 in knowledge and innovation fees.
- At a Trustee Centre: Fee: AED 100 + AED 20 + AED 95 plus VAT as service partner fees.
Required Documents
Via the App
- Copy of the Unified Tenancy Contract (for individuals and companies only).
Via Real Estate Services Trustee Centres
- Original Unified Tenancy Contract
- Emirates ID of the applicant
- Official Power of Attorney if the applicant is acting as a representative
Recent Development – It is now necessary for the names of all individuals residing in the property to be listed. This initiative by the Dubai Land Department aims to eliminate unlicensed co-living arrangements.
Understanding Ejari renewal rules is essential for both landlords and tenants in Dubai. Compliance with tenancy laws, notice requirements, and RERA regulations helps maintain transparency, protect contractual rights, and minimise rental disputes.
We at Ayesha Aldhaheri Advocates and Legal Consultants assist landlords and tenants with tenancy disputes, Ejari renewals, rental claims, and proceedings before the Rental Disputes Centre in Dubai.