Dubai is a growing metropolitan hub. The city\'s skyline is home to some of the tallest buildings in the world while being a short drive from a desert landscape. It is also a city of opportunity, with a thriving economy that attracts and appeals to people worldwide.
The rental market in Dubai is sizeable in part due to the number of short-term stay visitors, tourists, those looking to find work, and expatriates. To help renters and landlords settle disputes, many real estate initiatives brought on by the government simplify the renting process, such as Ejari or Rental Index.
If you plan to move to Dubai, here is what you need to know about the rental market. So whether you are new to the city and/or new to renting, let's go over the basics.
1. Short Term vs Long Term Rentals:
Find out whether you are looking for a short-term or long-term rental property, the websites that list the two will be different, as will the prices. Utilities are typically included. These are most likely furnished. Short-term rentals are on a daily, weekly, monthly basis. This is typically most applicable to tourists and business professionals. Utilities are to be paid separately and can be furnished or unfurnished.
2. Understand your budget:
The first step is to understand your budget. Rent in Dubai can vary depending on the location, the size of the property, and the amenities. You can use online property portals to get an idea of the rental prices in different areas.
3. Needs/ Wants:
Once you know your budget, you need to consider your needs. How many bedrooms do you need? Do you need a parking space? If you don’t own a car, consider the public transport routes. Proximity to the office, schools, and shopping malls can significantly influence your lifestyle. As well as facilities in the building/ neighborhood, a swimming pool for the kids, or a jogging track for morning runs. You can start your search once you know what you are looking for.
4. Do your research:
There are several different ways to find a rental property in Dubai. You can search online, use a real estate agent like Seven Century, or ask your friends or colleagues for recommendations. Ensure the agent is certified by the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA). The most popular platforms are Dubizzle and Bayut. When you are looking at properties, be sure to check the condition of the property, the amenities, and the location. Several visits to the property are standard, and visually inspecting the property for faults is necessary. You can check the landlord's history by requesting a Rental Good Conduct certificate from the Rental Dispute Centre this needs the agreement of both parties and shows any current or past disputes brought against the landlord or tenant. If you want to rent the property with a roommate, make sure you comply with local law and are in line with the contract provided by the landlord.
5. Negotiate the rent:
The rent advertised for a property is not always the final price. You may be able to negotiate the rent, especially if you are willing to sign a longer lease. Be sure to ask about any additional fees, such as service charges or parking fees. You can use the RERA Rental Index calculator to find the value of the property this can help you when making an offer.
6. Sign a rental contract:
Once you have found a property you are happy with, you must sign a rental contract. The contract will outline the terms of your tenancy, including the rent, the security deposit, and the lease length. Read the paperwork carefully before signing. Beware of real estate scams. Before putting down the deposit, ask the landlord for their ID copy and title deed.
7. Register with Ejari:
Once you have signed the rental contract, you must register the property with Ejari. Ejari is the Dubai Land Department\'s electronic rental registration system. Registration with Ejari is mandatory for all landlords and tenants in Dubai it is simply a tenancy agreement that your agent will help you with.
8. DEWA:
Once you have registered with Ejari, you can move into your new property. Check the property thoroughly before you move in and take photos not to forgo your security deposit. Then register for the utility provider DEWA. There is a registration fee, and monthly payments are made on their app.
Additional tips for renting in Dubai:
- Be prepared to pay a security deposit this is typically one-month rent.
- Be prepared to pay agency fees. Agency fees are usually 5% of the annual rent.
- When writing up the contract, mention an early exit clause. Unlike in some countries, there are no laws that contracts can be terminated after one month's notice.
- Be aware of the rental laws in Dubai. For a trustworthy source, visit the Dubai Land
Department website.