# Ejari: registering your tenancy contract in Dubai

> Every tenancy contract in Dubai must be registered with Ejari. What it is, why you need it, the documents and steps, and your rights on rent increases and deposits.

- Section: Real estate › Renting › Tenancy contract and Ejari
- Last updated: 2026-10-02
- Source: https://nuzan.ai/en/knowledge/ejari-tenancy-registration-dubai

## Overview

**Ejari** is Dubai's system for registering tenancy contracts, run by the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) of the Dubai Land Department. Registration is required for every residential and commercial lease, and it is what makes your contract enforceable.

## Authority

Dubai Land Department (DLD) and RERA. Abu Dhabi has its own system, Tawtheeq.

## Who can apply

The landlord, the landlord's agent or the tenant. In practice the agent or landlord often registers it, but it is worth checking it is done.

## Why you need it

- To connect electricity and water with DEWA
- To sponsor your family's residence
- To bring a case to the Rental Disputes Centre

## Required documents

- The signed tenancy contract
- The tenant's Emirates ID (or passport for a company tenant's representative)
- The title deed of the property
- The landlord's passport or Emirates ID
- The DEWA premises number

## Fees

A small registration fee applies. Check the current amount in the Dubai REST app or with an Ejari service centre.

## Steps

1. Sign the tenancy contract with the landlord.
2. Register it through the Dubai REST app, the DLD website or a real estate services centre.
3. Pay the fee and receive the Ejari certificate.
4. Use the certificate to activate DEWA and for any visa applications.

## Processing time

Usually the same day once the documents are complete.

## Your rights on rent and deposits

Rent increases are limited by the **RERA rental index**, and either side must give **90 days' notice** before the contract ends to change its terms. A security deposit of about 5% of the annual rent (10% furnished) is common practice and is returned at the end of the tenancy, less any agreed damages.

## Official links

- [Dubai Land Department](https://dubailand.gov.ae)

## Frequently asked questions

### Can my landlord raise the rent whenever they want?

No. An increase must be within the RERA rental index for your property, and you must be told at least 90 days before the contract ends.

### Do I need a new Ejari when I renew my lease?

Yes. The registration covers one contract period, so a renewal is registered again.

Arabic version: https://nuzan.ai/ar/knowledge/ejari-tenancy-registration-dubai