Ejari Registration Guide Dubai: Documents, Fees, and Step-by-Step Process

What Is Ejari and Why Does Every Dubai Tenant Need It?

Ejari is the official tenancy contract registration system managed by the Dubai Land Department (DLD). The word "Ejari" means "my rent" in Arabic, and the system was introduced in 2007 to regulate the rental market and protect both landlords and tenants. Every residential and commercial tenancy contract in Dubai must be registered through Ejari within 30 days of signing. Without an Ejari certificate, you cannot activate DEWA, set up internet, sponsor dependents, or open certain bank accounts. In our experience, completing Ejari registration promptly after signing your tenancy contract is the single most important administrative step in any Dubai move.

Documents Required for Ejari Registration

Before you begin the registration process, gather these documents. Having everything ready prevents delays and rejected applications:

• Signed tenancy contract — the original or a scanned copy with both tenant and landlord signatures
• Tenant's Emirates ID — a valid, unexpired card (front and back)
• Tenant's passport copy — the page with your photo and details
• Tenant's valid UAE visa page — the residence visa stamp or e-visa printout
• Landlord's Emirates ID or passport copy
• Title deed of the property (Oqood for off-plan properties)
• Landlord's Power of Attorney — only if a property management company is acting on the landlord's behalf
• DEWA premise number — found on any previous DEWA bill for the unit

If you are renting from a company or a property management firm in areas like Dubai Marina or Downtown Dubai, you may also need the company trade licence and a letter of authorisation from the building owner.

How to Register Ejari: Two Methods

Method 1: Online via Dubai REST App

The Dubai REST app (available on iOS and Android) is the fastest way to register Ejari. Here is the step-by-step process:

1. Download the Dubai REST app and create an account using your UAE Pass credentials.
2. Select "Ejari" from the services menu and choose "New Registration."
3. Enter the tenancy contract details: start date, end date, annual rent amount, payment frequency, and number of cheques.
4. Enter the property details: DEWA premise number, building name, unit number, and area.
5. Upload the required documents — scanned copies of all items listed above.
6. Pay the registration fee via credit card, debit card, or Apple Pay.
7. Submit and wait for approval. Online applications are typically processed within 24 to 48 hours.
8. Download your Ejari certificate once approved. The certificate includes your unique Ejari number.

Method 2: Typing Centre (In-Person)

If you prefer in-person assistance, you can register Ejari at an authorised typing centre. Typing centres are small service shops found in almost every Dubai neighbourhood. Here is how it works:

1. Visit any authorised Ejari typing centre. No appointment is needed. Popular locations include centres on Al Rigga Road in Deira, Computer Street in Bur Dubai, and centres near most RTA metro stations.
2. Bring all original documents listed above.
3. The typing centre staff will enter your details, scan your documents, and submit the application on your behalf.
4. Processing is usually same-day. You receive your printed Ejari certificate within 15 to 30 minutes.

The typing centre route is often preferred by tenants who find the online process confusing or whose landlords have not provided digital copies of documents.

Ejari Registration Fees

The total Ejari registration fee is AED 220, broken down as follows:

• Ejari registration fee: AED 155
• Knowledge fee: AED 10
• Innovation fee: AED 10
• Typing centre service charge: AED 45 (only if using a typing centre; waived online)

If you register online through the Dubai REST app, the total cost is approximately AED 175 because you bypass the typing centre service charge. This fee is paid by the tenant in most cases, though some landlords cover it as part of the rental agreement.

Ejari Renewal and Cancellation

Ejari must be renewed every time you renew your tenancy contract. If your rent changes or your contract terms update, the Ejari record must be updated accordingly. When you move out, your landlord should cancel the existing Ejari so the next tenant can register theirs.

• Renewal fee: AED 220 (same as new registration)
• Cancellation: Free of charge, submitted through the Dubai REST app or a typing centre

If your landlord does not cancel the previous Ejari, the new tenant cannot register theirs, which blocks their DEWA activation. We have seen cases where tenants moving into buildings in Business Bay and JLT waited weeks because the previous Ejari was not cancelled. If you encounter this, contact your landlord or the DLD Rental Disputes Centre on 800-4488.

How Ejari Connects to Your Other Move-In Steps

Ejari is the foundation document for several essential services after your move. Here is the sequence we recommend to every client:

1. Sign tenancy contract with your landlord.
2. Register Ejari within 1 to 2 days of signing.
3. Activate DEWA using your Ejari number (see our DEWA transfer guide).
4. Set up internet with du or Etisalat using your Ejari and Emirates ID.
5. Update your Emirates ID address with ICP within 30 days.

Skipping or delaying Ejari disrupts this entire chain. We always advise our clients to complete Ejari registration before their moving day so that DEWA and internet can be activated in time for their arrival.

Common Ejari Issues and How to Solve Them

• Previous Ejari not cancelled: Contact the previous tenant or ask your landlord to cancel through DLD. If unresolved, visit the Rental Disputes Centre at DLD headquarters in Deira.
• Landlord not cooperating: If your landlord refuses to provide documents for Ejari registration, this is a violation of Dubai tenancy law. File a complaint through the Dubai REST app.
• Wrong property details: Ensure the DEWA premise number matches the exact unit. Errors here cause DEWA activation failures later.
• Expired Emirates ID or visa: Your Emirates ID and visa must be valid at the time of registration. Renew them first if they are expiring soon.

When you book your move with our apartment moving service or villa moving service, our relocation team provides a checklist that includes Ejari timing so nothing gets missed. Request your free moving estimate and let us help coordinate your entire relocation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does Ejari registration take?

Online Ejari registration through the Dubai REST app typically takes 24 to 48 hours for processing. If you visit an authorised typing centre in person, the certificate is usually issued within 15 to 30 minutes on the spot. We recommend completing registration within the first two days after signing your tenancy contract to avoid delays with DEWA and internet setup.

Can I activate DEWA without Ejari?

No. DEWA requires a valid Ejari certificate number to process any new residential connection in Dubai. Without Ejari, your DEWA activation request will be rejected. This is the most common reason tenants arrive at a new home without electricity or water. Always register Ejari before applying for DEWA activation at your new address.

What happens if I do not register Ejari within 30 days?

While there is no direct fine for late Ejari registration, failing to register creates practical problems. You cannot activate DEWA, set up internet, sponsor family members, or use your tenancy contract as proof of address for banking or government services. Additionally, unregistered contracts offer weaker legal protection in rental disputes before the DLD Rental Disputes Centre.