Engel & Völkers
  • 5 min read
  • Updated 23 Oct 2025
  • by Jake Fletcher

Ejari Registration in Dubai: Step-by-Step Guide for 2025

man registers the Ejari for his Dubai rental property using his laptop

Key Takeaways:

  • Ejari registration in Dubai is mandatory to legalise tenancy contracts and protect both tenants and landlords

  • Registration can be completed online via the Dubai REST app or in person at approved trustee centres

  • Certificates are typically issued within one to two working days after document submission and fee payment

  • Engel & Völkers Dubai can guide tenants through every step of renting a property and ejari registration.

When renting a property in Dubai, ensuring that your tenancy agreement is registered with the Ejari system is a critical step that safeguards both tenants and landlords. The Ejari, derived from the Arabic word for 'My Rent,' is an essential online registration system mandated by Dubai's Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) since its launch in 2007.

This blog will provide a brief overview of Ejari registration in Dubai, why it is mandatory, the process and documentation, how to register Ejari online, and more. 

Table of Content

  1. What is Ejari?

  2. Benefits of Ejari Registration

  3. Why Ejari Registration is Mandatory in Dubai

  4. Who Needs to Register Ejari?

  5. Ejari Registration Fees and Timeline

  6. How to Register for Ejari?

  7. Required Documents for Ejari Registration

  8. Ejari Renewal and Cancellation

  9. Key Takeaways: Ejari Registration in Dubai (2025)

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: 

  1. Download the Dubai REST app 

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

  3. Select the ‘Register Ejari Contract’ option 

  4. Fill in the required details and upload the documents 

  5. Submit the application 

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

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

Offline Ejari Registration

To register for Ejari offline, do the following: 

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

  2. Complete the registration form and submit the required documents 

  3. 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:

Key Takeaways: Ejari Registration in Dubai (2025)

  • Ejari registration is mandatory for all rental properties in Dubai, ensuring tenancy contracts are legally recognised and enforceable.

  • You can register Ejari online through the Dubai REST app or visit an approved trustee centre for in-person registration.

  • The online Ejari registration process is fast and convenient, with certificates typically issued within one to two working days.

  • Key documents needed include your signed tenancy contract, Emirates ID, landlord details, DEWA information, and payment receipt.

  • Ejari registration is required to activate DEWA accounts, file rental disputes, and renew or cancel tenancy contracts legally.

  • Failure to register Ejari can lead to legal complications, service delays, or fines from regulatory authorities.

  • Whether you’re a tenant or landlord, learning how to register Ejari online helps you stay compliant and protected in Dubai’s property market.

A woman wearing an all-white outfit consisting of a button-down blouse and trousers stands thoughtfully by a window in a bright, modern living room. Her casual yet sophisticated pose and the natural lighting create a serene atmosphere.

Rent successfully with Engel & Völkers

Discover your perfect property with our expert guidance.

Jake Fletcher

Jake Fletcher

Jake Fletcher is the Head of Leasing at Engel & Völkers Dubai, where he leads one of the city’s top-performing leasing teams with over 50 agents. With over four years of frontline experience in Dubai’s fast-paced real estate market, Jake is recognised for building high-performing teams. He pairs deep market expertise with a strategic, people-first leadership style that consistently drives results and raises industry standards. His achievements have also earned him industry recognition, including accolades such as Bayut’s Agent of the Month.

You may also be interested in

Contact

Contact your personal advisor

Headshot of Rogier Arends
Nicole Voger headshot
Ran Miao

Engel & Völkers Dubai

7th Floor, Al Khail Plaza

Jumeirah Village Triangle, Dubai, UAE

Tel: +971 4 4223500