Ejari Registration in Dubai: Step-by-Step Guide for 2026

What is Ejari?

The Ejari system serves as a platform to formalize tenancy contracts, ensuring that they are legally structured and approved by the government. Its primary functions include:

• Recording the agreed-upon rental price.

• Setting up DEWA (Dubai Electricity and Water Authority) accounts.

• Creating a transparent and secure framework for tenancy contracts.

With Ejari registration, tenants and landlords can be assured that their contracts are legally binding and structured in a way that is fair and secure for all parties involved.

Benefits of Ejari Registration

The Ejari system fosters a smooth and transparent relationship between landlords and tenants. By recording rental prices and validating tenancy contracts it significantly reduces the risk of fraud or document tampering. Moreover, it is evidence in disputes and helps clamp down on illegal housing practices.

For Tenants 

For tenants in Dubai, there are several benefits available once you have registered your Ejari online. These include:

• You are protected from unfair practices, such as sudden rent increases, contract termination, or removal from the property.

• Your rental contract with your landlord is legally registered and recognised in Dubai.

• In the event of a rental dispute with your landlord, you can visit the Ejari system for assistance. 

• You can access an updated list of all the leased properties in Dubai. 

For Landlords 

As the Ejari is fair, it has benefits for landlords too, including: 

• The Ejari is a legally binding mechanism that legalises your property lease in Dubai. 

• In the event of disputes with a tenant, the landlord can utilise the Ejari system to register a complaint.

Why Ejari Registration is Mandatory in Dubai

Why is it necessary for you to register for Ejari in Dubai? Not only is it a mandatory step that legalises your tenancy contract and allows you to live in Dubai, but Ejari registration also helps regulatory authorities maintain a fair and transparent rental market in the city. 

A city like Dubai has strict consequences for non-compliance. To avoid this, you must register Ejari online or at a help centre. 

Who Needs to Register Ejari?

Although landlords are typically responsible for registering tenancy contracts with Ejari, it is not uncommon for tenants to take on this responsibility.

To do so, tenants have the option to either register Ejari online using the Dubai REST application, which is a convenient digital platform that aids in real estate activities for both property owners and tenants, or visit a trustee centre in person.

You can download the Dubai REST application from the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store.

Ejari Registration Fees and Timeline

The fees for registering Ejari vary based on the chosen method. Using the Dubai REST application incurs a fee of AED 155, excluding VAT, while trustee centres charge AED 219.75, including fees and VAT. Upon completion, tenants receive the official Ejari contract within one to two working days via the website or instantly through the Dubai REST app.

How to Register for Ejari?

Many people often wonder how to register for Ejari. Here are some steps you can follow. 

Online Ejari Registration

For those wondering how to register Ejari online, here are the steps: 

Download the Dubai REST app 

Head to the ‘Services’ tab and select the ‘RERA’ tab 

Select the ‘Register Ejari Contract’ option 

Fill in the required details and upload the documents 

Submit the application 

The landlord will have to approve your Ejari registration request through their account on the app 

After approval, pay the required fees and your Ejari certificate will be issued 

Offline Ejari Registration

To register for Ejari offline, do the following: 

Visit an approved typing centre of one of the real estate services trustee’s offices in Dubai

Complete the registration form and submit the required documents 

Pay the required fees, and your Ejari certificate will be issued 

Required Documents for Ejari Registration

Tenants need several documents for Ejari registration, including:

• The original signed tenancy contract

• Security deposit receipt

• Relevant personal identification

• Copies of the landlord's documents

• DEWA information

• Commercial property-related documents (if applicable)

Ejari Renewal and Cancellation

At the end of your tenancy contract, you will be required to do one of the following processes:

• Ejari Renewal: if you plan to continue the tenancy for another year

• Ejari Cancellation: If you vacate the property at the end of the tenancy.

Conclusion

Ejari registration is an essential step for anyone renting property in Dubai. By officially registering your tenancy contract through the Ejari system, both tenants and landlords benefit from greater transparency, legal protection, and a clear record of the rental agreement.

Whether you complete your Ejari registration online through the Dubai REST app or visit an approved trustee centre, the process is designed to be straightforward once you have the correct documents prepared.

For tenants moving to Dubai or renewing an existing lease, understanding how to register Ejari helps avoid delays with important services such as DEWA activation and ensures your tenancy agreement meets Dubai’s rental regulations.

Key points to remember:

• Ejari registration is mandatory for rental contracts in Dubai

• Registration can be completed online or through approved trustee centres

• Ejari is required for processes such as DEWA activation and rental disputes

• Tenants should prepare their tenancy contract, identification documents, and property details before applying

• Ejari must be renewed when extending a tenancy contract and cancelled when ending a lease