If you are a tenant looking to rent a property in Dubai or UAE or a landlord seeking to find the perfect tenant, you have probably encountered the term “Ejari” multiple times. Nonetheless, if you haven’t, now is a great time to become familiar with it because having an Ejari certificate is necessary for renting or leasing a property in the UAE.
In today’s article, we will address all your queries about Ejari, why it is important to obtain an Ejari certification, the registration process, and other important aspects.
All-in-all, for those who are navigating the system and need information on the process, fees, and required documents, we have got your back.
What is Ejari in Dubai? Understanding Ejari Dubai and Its Legal Framework
The term ‘Ejari’ literally translates to ‘My Rent’ in Arabic. In UAE, the Ejari system is an initiative by the Real Estate Regulatory Agency in accordance with Law No. 26 of 2007.
Moreover, this law mandates that all rental contracts for properties must be registered online through the official portal. It is crucial in the process of renting a property in the UAE since it ensures that tenancy contracts are legally binding documents created in a government-approved format.
What’s more, this system serves as an official record of the agreed-upon rents, preventing landlords from unilaterally raising the rent when it’s time to renew the tenancy contract.
Also, when you register with Ejari, you receive a barcode referred to as the Ejari number. This officially verified Ejari Dubai contract is essential for various purposes:
- It’s required when you want to set up your water and electricity services with DEWA
- Get telephone and internet connections
- Obtain commercial licenses
- Apply for residency visas
How to Register for Ejari Dubai?
There are two approaches to registration:
- You can opt to complete it online via the Ejari portal on the DLD (Dubai Land Department) website.
- Through the Dubai Rest app, or you can visit one of the approved Ejari centers in person.
Registering via the DLD’s website
Follow these simple steps to complete the registration process via DLD.
- Go to the Official Website: Start by opening the Dubai Land Department’s website on your computer or smartphone.
- Find the Ejari Section: Once on the website, look for the “Ejari” section, which is dedicated to renting.
- Create Your Account: If you don’t already have an account on their website, you will need to create one. This is similar to signing up for online services and will require basic information such as your name, etc.
- Log in and Provide Your Contact Information: After setting up your account, log in using your username and password. Look for the “Start Renting” or “Register Your Contract” button and click on it. You will be asked about your rental contract details, including the landlord’s information, the location of the rental property, and the duration of the agreement.
- Prepare Your Documents Ahead: Have your rental-related documents ready, which may include your rental contract and your ID card. The website will have a designated area for you to upload these documents.
- Verify: Before completing the process, double-check that all the information is accurate. Ensure that your name is correctly spelled and that the rental contract details are valid.
- Submit Your Registration: Simply click the “Submit” or “Finish” button. This signals that you are ready to register your rental contract.
- Wait for Confirmation: After clicking the button, the website will confirm your registration. You might receive a special number or confirmation indicating that your registration was successful.
Utilizing Real Estate Service Trustee Centers for Registration
Here’s how you can register through real estate service trustee centers
- Locate a Nearby Center: Find a real estate service trustee or typing center in your close proximity that assists in such official procedures.
- Gather all Essential Documents: Do not forget to take tenancy-related documents (demonstrating your tenancy) with you when visiting a center.
- Provide Necessary Information: They will ask for tenancy-related information such as the landlord’s particulars, date of the tenancy commencement, location, etc., for record keeping.
- Await Verification: They will review the information you have provided to confirm its accuracy.
- Pay the Fee: You will have to pay the nominal fee to officially register your rental contract.
- Receive Your Contract and Certificate: After payment, they will give you a copy of your rental contract. Additionally, you will receive a contract registration certificate, serving as evidence that you have completed the process accurately.
Registering for Ejari Dubai via the App
Tenants can use the Dubai REST app to go through the official process of registering their tenancy contracts. Here’s a step-by-step guide.
- Start by installing the Dubai REST app.
- Navigate to the ‘Services’ section of the app.
- Look for the RERA option.
- Select the ‘Register Ejari Contract’ feature.
- Fill in all the essential fields with accurate information.
- Make sure to upload the necessary documents.
- Lastly, submit your registration.
Documents Required for Ejari Dubai Registration
For Ejari registration, the following documents are essential.
- Passport of the landlord.
- Tenant’s Emirate ID.
- Original tenancy contract.
- Power of attorney.
- The title deed of the rented property.
- Trade license in case of commercial properties.
Who Needs Ejari in Dubai or UAE?
Ejari registration is required for various parties involved in rental agreements in the United Arab Emirates, such as.
- Landlords: Landlords who own commercial or residential properties and wish to lease them out are required to register their lease agreements with Ejari. This registration protects their rights and ensures legal compliance.
- Tenants: Tenants looking to rent residential or commercial properties must also register with Ejari. It provides them with legal protection as well as clarity over the terms and conditions of their lease agreements.
- Real Estate Agents: Real estate agents or brokers that assist with rental transactions are often involved in the Ejari registration process. They ensure that lease agreements are correctly registered and that all parties follow legal requirements.
- Property Management Companies: Companies responsible for managing rental properties on behalf of property owners also need to register with Ejari. That’s because they ensure that they are following the law and protecting the interests of both property owners and tenants.
- Business Owners: Entrepreneurs and business owners seeking to establish a business in the UAE and obtain commercial licenses may need to register their office or commercial space lease agreements with Ejari as part of the licensing process.
Benefits of Opting for Ejari Dubai
Ejari registration brings a lot of perks, including:
- Legal Validity: The Ejari certificate provides legal safeguards to both landlords and tenants, guaranteeing the agreement’s authenticity in case of disputes.
- Combating Unlawful Practices: Ejari takes a stand against unsafe living conditions and unethical real estate practices.
- Transparency: By standardizing rental contracts and prices, Ejari fosters transparency within the real estate rental market.
- Dispute Resolution: In case of disputes between landlords and tenants, the Ejari system provides a platform for resolving conflicts through the Dubai Rent Disputes Center. This helps streamline the process of settling rental disputes.
- Access to Government Services: Tenants and landlords with registered Ejari contracts gain access to various government services, such as obtaining utility connections, signing up for telecommunications services, and registering for DEWA (Dubai Electricity and Water Authority) services.
It benefits landlords, tenants, real estate professionals, and various government and licensing agencies by ensuring that rental agreements comply with the law and that the rights and responsibilities of all parties are clearly defined.
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Ejari Certificate: What is it?
The Ejari certificate is an essential document for any tenancy contract in Dubai, ensuring compliance with rental laws and resolving disputes, fostering a fair and secure rental environment.
Also, the certificate is issued by the DLD and remains valid for a period of one year. Moreover, the Ejari certificate contains vital information pertaining to the tenancy, including:
- The names and contact details of both the landlord and tenant.
- Specific property information.
- Rental amount.
- Commencement and termination dates of the contract.
- Terms and conditions governing the agreement.
What is Ejari Registration Cost?
Registering through the app comes at a more budget-friendly cost compared to traditional typing center registration. Let’s break down the expenses for both online and offline registration methods.
| Registration Fee | Innovation Fee | Knowledge Fee | Total Fee | |
| Offline | 219.75 AED | 10 AED | 10 AED | 239.75 AED |
| Online | 155 AED | 10 AED | 10 AED | 175 AED |
Ejari Renewal Process
Ejari registration is only effective for a year. Hence, to renew your Ejari online, follow these steps:
- Go to the official Ejari website and log in to your account.
- Choose the contract you wish to renew and upload the required documents (such as an updated tenancy contract and DEWA bill).
- Now, make the Ejari renewal payment online.
- Upon successful payment, you will receive a new registration number, and your renewed Ejari certificate can now be downloaded.
DISCLAIMER: If your previous tenancy agreements aren’t in the system, you can’t renew your current Ejari contract. Thus, in this case, you must first register your prior tenancy agreement in line with RERA regulations.
Documents You Need for the Renewal Process
Following are the documents you need to renew Ejari.
- Original lease agreement.
- Original Emirates ID card of the applicant.
- A copy of the owner’s passport with the signature page or an Emirates ID copy (both sides).
- A copy of the title deed certificate.
- A copy of the business license if the landlord or tenant is a businessman.
- For individual tenants, provide a copy of the tenant’s Emirates ID and the passport page showing the residence visa.
- If a power of attorney was used to sign the contract, it’s required. If the power of attorney is from outside the UAE, it must be certified by the UAE Foreign Ministry.
Dispelling Ejari Dubai Misconceptions
Ejari is a widely used system in the United Arab Emirates for registering rental contracts and tenancy agreements. However, there are some myths that need clarification.
1. It’s a One-Time Process
Misconception: Some people think that Ejari registration is a one-time activity.
Clarification: Ejari registration is an annual requirement for renewing rental contracts, and it must be updated if any changes occur during the tenancy.
2. Ejari is For Dubai Only
Misconception: Many believe that Ejari is exclusive to Dubai.
Clarification: Ejari is essential for all rental agreements in the UAE, not just Dubai. Each emirate may have its own Ejari system, but the concept is the same for all.
3. It’s Costly and Time-Consuming
Misconception: People often think that Ejari registration is time-consuming and costly.
Clarification: Ejari registration is a straightforward and affordable process that only takes a few days.
4. Only Landlords are Responsible
Misconception: Tenants may assume landlords are responsible for Ejari.
Clarification: Both landlords and tenants share the responsibility of registering their contracts on Ejari.
5. It’s for Residential Properties
Misconception: People often assume that Ejari is solely for residential properties.
Clarification: Ejari is essential for all rental contracts, including commercial, residential, and industrial properties, to ensure legal protection for the involved parties.
Consequences of Failing to Comply with Ejari in Dubai
Failing to register a rental agreement with Ejari in the UAE can lead to significant legal consequences for both landlords and tenants.
- Legal Vulnerability: Non-compliance leaves both parties legally vulnerable, as unregistered agreements may not be recognized in both disputes as well as before authorities.
- Rent Increase Restrictions: Tenants may lose protection against unjustified rent increases, as Ejari registration is a prerequisite for rent cap regulations.
- Loss of Rights: Not complying with Ejari can result in a loss of rights to essential services like DEWA and residency visa renewal for tenants.
In a nutshell, Ejari establishes a structured framework that promotes fairness and upholds the terms of rental contracts when disagreements arise.
Sample Ejari Agreement
Here is a sample of the Dubai Ejari tenancy contract.
Source: http://dubaisurvivalguide.com/guide/dubais-unified-tenancy-contract/
Tips for Utilizing Ejari Effectively
- Start Early: Begin the Ejari registration process well in advance, ideally alongside signing your rental contract. This prevents last-minute hassles.
- Collaboration: Landlords and tenants should work together to complete the Ejari registration.
- Double-Check Information: Ensure that all details, including rent amounts, tenancy periods, and personal information, are accurate and match with your rental contract.
- Renewal Reminder: Mark your calendar for annual renewals.
- Keep Records: Maintain copies of all Ejari-related documents for your records.
Thus, by following these tips, you can navigate the Ejari process smoothly, ensuring a legally compliant as well as trouble-free renting experience.
FAQs
Q) How long does it take to obtain the Ejari Certificate?
A) You will receive your Ejari certificate immediately. Once your tenancy agreement is completed, ensure that your Ejari certificate is promptly issued.
Q) What Does Ejari Stand For?
A) EJARI, a digital platform introduced by the DLD, stands for “Electronic Registration and Real Estate Documentation System”. It’s designed to electronically register and document tenancy agreements for various types of properties across the UAE.
Takeaway
Ejari stands as a testament to the UAE’s commitment to progress and modernization. Since its introduction, the real estate market in Dubai or UAE has become more transparent, efficient, and well-regulated.
Also, this has paved the way for a stable and prosperous environment, benefiting investors, landlords, and tenants.
Besides, if you are still deciding on your ideal rental property or need the help of a registered real estate broker in Dubai, feel free to contact Orchid Homes.