Ejari is the Dubai government’s system for attesting and registering tenancy contracts. It’s a process that can be puzzling for newcomers to Dubai and can even catch long-term residents by surprise. To make it easier, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide, including recent updates that other resources might overlook.

What is Ejari?

Ejari, introduced in 2007, was designed to resolve common rental disputes and protect tenants against fraud. By 2010, registering tenancy contracts through Ejari became mandatory. To be legally valid, every tenancy contract and its subsequent renewals must be registered in the Ejari system.

Over the years, the requirements for Ejari registration have become stricter. Practices such as allowing real estate agents or third-party websites to register contracts on behalf of tenants have been prohibited. Once a tenancy contract is registered, tenants are issued an Ejari certificate, which includes a unique “Contract Number.”

Why Do I Need to Register Ejari?

An Ejari certificate is essential for:

Connecting Utilities:
The Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) requires an Ejari certificate to open a utility account. Without it, tenants may be left without electricity and water upon moving in.
Access Cards and Permits:
Many building and community management companies demand an Ejari certificate before issuing access cards, air conditioning connections, or moving permits.

Legal Disputes:
Dubai’s local courts will not hear rental disputes unless the tenancy contract has been registered with Ejari.
How Does Ejari Get Done?

There are three ways to register Ejari:

1. Landlord or Property Management Company Registration
   This is the most common method, especially for tenants renting directly from building owners. The landlord or their authorized property management company registers the tenancy contract in the Ejari system. While tenants are typically charged a fee, they only need to provide identification documents. Some real estate brokerages also handle property management and may assist with this process.
2. Tenant Registers Online
   Using the official government app, “Dubai REST,” tenants can register their tenancy contracts online. This requires the landlord’s cooperation, as they must also use the app to approve the application. If the landlord is unresponsive or unable to use the app, in-person registration becomes necessary.
3. Tenant Registers In-Person
   Tenants can visit one of five Ejari offices across Dubai to register their tenancy contracts. By providing the required documents, a clerk can process the registration and issue an Ejari certificate on the spot.

When Should Ejari Be Registered?

Each time a tenancy contract is signed or renewed, it must be registered with Ejari. If a renewal is skipped, Ejari will backdate the fees to cover the missed period.

Can I Register Ejari Online?

Yes, tenants can register using the Dubai REST app, available for Android and iOS. However, be cautious of third-party websites claiming to handle Ejari registration. These sites are either obsolete or fraudulent and cannot complete the process.

How to Register Ejari Online

1. Download the Dubai REST app from the Play Store or iTunes Store.
2. Register using your Emirates ID.
3. Follow the app’s instructions to upload the required documents.
4. Pay the Ejari fee of approximately AED 175.
5. Wait for the landlord’s approval through the app, which may take up to two days.

Important: If the process is incomplete, cancel the application in the app before attempting in-person registration to avoid delays.

How to Register Ejari In-Person

1. Visit one of the five government Ejari offices in Dubai. Appointments are not necessary.
2. Bring the required documents (see below).
3. Take a ticket and wait to be called. Wait times range from 5 to 45 minutes.
4. Once called, the process takes approximately 10 minutes.
   Cancelling Ejari
   At the end of a tenancy period, the Ejari must be canceled by the landlord. Only one active Ejari can exist for a property at a time. Ensure the previous Ejari is canceled before registering a new one.
   Documents Required for Ejari Registration

• Original tenancy contract
• Emirates ID
• Copy of the tenant’s passport
• Copy of the landlord’s passport and Emirates ID
• The title deed of the property
• Payment receipts for rent (if applicable)

By following this guide, tenants can navigate the Ejari process smoothly and avoid unnecessary complications.