Renting out your property in Dubai can be challenging, especially if you are renting it for the first time. With the city’s real estate market growing rapidly, new projects popping up, and strong investment returns, many people are looking to rent their properties in Dubai.
If you need guidance on renting your property in Dubai, this guide will walk you through the process of how to rent your property in Dubai.
Step-by-step Guide on How to Rent Your Property in Dubai
Renting your property in Dubai is a step-by-step process. We will talk about everything from getting your property ready to handling viewings and managing contracts so you can make the process smooth and easy.
1. Property Preparation for Rental Purposes
How the property looks and the first impression it makes are important. Therefore, the initial step in renting out a property in Dubai is to get it ready.
If your property needs any minor repairs or updates, like fixing plumbing issues, painting walls, or doing electrical work, it is better to finish these tasks before listing it for rent. This will help make the property look attractive, draw in quality tenants, and get a better rental price.
2. Choose a Certified Real Estate Broker or Company
A trustworthy real estate company not only have experience with tenants but can also handle the process efficiently and smoothly.
Choosing a reliable real estate agency in Dubai will make the process easier for you and keep everything clear for both sides. Your real estate agent or company will help you
- understand rental prices,
- screen potential tenants, and
- negotiate favorable terms
It is important to choose a real estate broker or agency that is registered with the Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA) to avoid potential legal problems later. Agencies that are RERA-approved help you find the right tenants and make sure everything is handled professionally.
3. Be Familiar with the Listing Process
It is important to get yourself familiar with the property listing process in Dubai. Here are two key factors in the listing process in Dubai.
Mandatory documents
Renting out a property in Dubai requires submitting several documents, which the property owner needs to provide. These documents include:
- Title deed
- Copy of the landlord’s passport and Emirates ID or residence visa
- DEWA account details
- Bank statement and mortgage document (in case the property is mortgaged)
How to get the listing permit
In Dubai, any property you want to rent out must have a permit to be advertised by a real estate company registered with RERA.
To get this permit, you will need to provide some documents to the Dubai Land Department (DLD):
- Title deed
- Owner’s passport copy
- Signed listing agreement
Hiring a certified real estate agent can handle this process for you.
4. Prepare Your Property for a Photoshoot
As mentioned earlier, preparing your property for a listing is crucial because first impressions count. To make sure your property looks at its best, you should clean and organize it before it is photographed or filmed.
Your real estate agent might use professional photography, video, or 360-degree tours to show off your property. However, these efforts won’t be effective if the property is not clean and well-maintained.
5. Arrange Property Visits for Potential Tenants
If you have hired a real estate agent or company, they will handle property viewings for you. They will show potential tenants around, answer their questions, negotiate offers, and provide you with useful feedback on your property.
It is a good idea to be flexible with viewing times to give potential tenants the best experience and encourage them to visit your property.
6. Review Offers From Potential Tenants
When a potential tenant wants to rent your property, they will make an offer through the real estate agent. You can then discuss and negotiate the terms with the tenant through the agent until you both agree on the details.
Once you accept the offer, you will need to complete the required paperwork and prepare the rental contract. The tenant will provide a deposit cheque. Your real estate agent will help both you and the tenant through this entire process.
7. Sign the Tenancy Contract
Once your property is listed for rent and a tenant is almost secured, the next step is to sign the tenancy contract. At this stage, there are two important things to keep in mind:
Use the RERA Unified Contract
The real estate agent or company you are working with should provide the RERA Unified Tenancy Contract, along with a standard lease addendum that outlines the rights and responsibilities of both you and the tenant.
Register with Ejari
After signing the tenancy contract, you must register with Ejari in Dubai. The tenant, landlord, or real estate company can do this.
When registering with Ejari, you will need to provide certain documents and pay a fee. You can do this online or at an Ejari center.
8. Payments Management
When receiving the first payment from a tenant for your property, there are two key things to consider:
Payment Options and Security Deposits
At the contract signing, the tenant should make a payment according to the agreed terms. This usually includes a security deposit, which is
- 5% of the annual rent for an unfurnished property, or
- 10% for a furnished one), and
- any other upfront fees
The tenant can choose to pay the full annual rent in one lump sum or provide an initial payment along with post-dated cheques.
Handling Post-dated Cheques
If you and the tenant agree to split the rent into several payments over the year, the tenant should provide post-dated cheques when signing the contract.
A post-dated cheque has a future date written on it. That means it can only be cashed or deposited on or after that date.
9. Setting Up Utility Connections
To make things easier for the tenant, make sure that the gas, water, and electricity services are set up. This will happen once the contract is registered with Ejari. After that, DEWA will create the tenant’s account and send them the details by email.
To activate the DEWA account, the tenant will need to provide:
- DEWA number
- Title deed
- Passport copies of both the tenant and the landlord
- Completed DEWA form
- Refundable security deposit
- Activation fee of AED 130
If there are any unpaid utility bills when the tenant moves in, you will need to settle them.
10. Documenting Key and Card Handover
Make sure to have the keys and access cards ready for the tenant. The tenant will need to sign for and collect these before moving into the property.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I rent my property in Dubai?
The landlords in Dubai need to register lease agreements through RERA’s online portal, Ejari. Tenants are also required to pay housing fees to the Dubai Municipality, which are 5% of the annual rent.
Can I list my property on Airbnb in Dubai?
After registering your property as a holiday home, you need to create a host account on Airbnb. To do this, you can use your Facebook account, Google ID, or email address to sign up. Follow the tips to prepare your property for guests and complete the sign-up process.
What are the key documents required to list my property for rent in Dubai?
Key documents needed include the title deed, a copy of the landlord’s passport and Emirates ID or residence visa, DEWA account details, a bank statement, and a mortgage document if the property is mortgaged. You will also need a permit from the Dubai Land Department (DLD)
How long can you stay in Dubai if you own a property?
After buying the property, you can apply for a residence visa. This visa is valid for up to 2 years and can be renewed as long as you continue to own the property and visit the country at least once every 180 days.
How can I determine the appropriate rental price for my property in Dubai?
In order to set the right rental price, partner with a trusted real estate broker or company in Dubai. They will know about market trends, different property types, and locations. They can offer advice on current rental rates, recent deals, and help negotiate with potential tenants.
Summing it up
Renting out your property in Dubai involves several steps. First, get your property ready by making any needed repairs and cleaning it up. Choose a certified real estate agent who knows the market and can handle the process efficiently.
You will need to register the property with RERA and get the required permit from the Dubai Land Department. Prepare your property for photos and viewings, and be flexible with viewing times.
Once a tenant is found, review and negotiate offers, sign the tenancy contract, and register with Ejari. Manage payments, including security deposits and post-dated cheques. Set up utility connections and ensure all bills are paid. Finally, provide the tenant with keys and access cards.
Or, feel free to contact Orchid Homes Real Estate Dubai—certified real estate brokers and let experts handle everything from scratch.