How much deposit do I pay when renting in Dubai?

Most landlords ask for 5 to 10 percent of annual rent as security deposit, held until you move out.

Do I need Ejari to open a DEWA account?

Yes. DEWA requires a valid Ejari certificate before they activate electricity and water.

Can tourists rent apartments in Dubai?

Tourists can rent short-term via hotels or licensed holiday homes, but standard 12-month contracts need a residency visa.

How to Rent an Apartment in Dubai: Step-by-Step Guide

Decide your budget and preferred area

Work out your monthly rent limit before you start viewing. In 2026 most one-bedroom apartments in Dubai Marina or JLT cost AED 70,000 to AED 110,000 per year. Two-bedroom units in the same zones range from AED 110,000 to AED 160,000. Factor in the 5 percent Dubai Municipality fee and the AED 2,000 to AED 4,000 for agency commission if you use a broker.

Choose the right contract length and payment plan

Standard tenancy agreements run for 12 months. Landlords usually ask for four post-dated cheques or one upfront payment plus three cheques. Some buildings now accept monthly bank transfers, but this must be written into the contract. Read every clause on notice periods and maintenance responsibility before you sign.

Complete the Ejari registration

Once you agree on a unit, the landlord or agent must register the tenancy with Dubai Land Department through the Ejari system. The fee is AED 130 plus 5 percent of annual rent for the municipality fee. You will receive a digital Ejari certificate within 24 hours. Keep a copy; you need it for DEWA, visas, and school admissions.

Set up DEWA and other utilities

Visit the DEWA website or app with your Ejari, Emirates ID, and tenancy contract. Pay the AED 2,000 security deposit and connection fee. Electricity and water are activated the same day in most towers. Order internet through providers such as du or Etisalat at the same time to avoid delays.

Move in and protect your deposit

Take timestamped photos of every room, appliance, and meter reading on the day you collect the keys. Send these to the landlord within 48 hours. When you leave, request a joint inspection and keep the written handover report. This protects your full AED 5,000 to AED 10,000 security deposit.

Watch for rental scams

Never transfer money before seeing the original title deed and signing an Ejari-registered contract. Verify the agent’s RERA card number on the Dubai REST app. If a price looks 20 percent below market, treat it as a red flag and ask Tovi to cross-check the listing.

Ask Tovi for more

Tovi knows current 2026 UAE rules, fees, and processes. Ask anything. Ask Tovi free →

Got more UAE questions?

Tovi knows current 2026 UAE rules, fees, and processes. Ask anything — visas, banking, housing, schools. Ask Tovi free →