Ejari Registration UAE 2025: Online, Offline, Renewal and Cancellation

Anyone renting a property in the UAE would have definitely heard of the term “Ejari”. While the term may sound unfamiliar, especially for foreigners who have zero understanding of Arabic, it basically means “My rent”.

In simple terms, Ejari registration is a legal framework that covers the process of renting and moving into a new apartment or commercial establishment. Using professional Ejari services can simplify this process, ensuring your tenancy contract is registered efficiently and in compliance with legal requirements.

Whether you’re unsure about what Ejari is in UAE or the requirements for registering your tenancy contract, this guide will provide you with all the information you need.

Ejari: Meaning and Importance of Having a Certificate

Ejari is a tenancy registration system launched by the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, with the main intention of protecting the rights of both tenants and landlords and ensuring a smooth renting process.

With the Ejari registration, both tenants and property owners gain official proof of tenancy, fostering transparency and minimising the risk of disputes and other legal complications. It is also essential for tenancy-related services, including water, electricity, and gas connections.

This system allows the maintenance of historical data that can help tenants conduct background checks on the reliability of landlords and properties. This goes a long way in ensuring tenants make informed decisions that are less likely to cause issues in the future.

What is an Ejari Certificate?

An Ejari certificate is an essential document that legally validates a tenancy contract in Dubai. Issued by the Dubai Land Department (DLD), it ensures that rental agreements are officially registered under the government system.

The Ejari certificate is valid for one year and is necessary for various services, including setting up utilities, visa processing, and resolving tenancy disputes. Without it, tenants and landlords may face legal complications and difficulty accessing essential services.

The Importance of the Ejari Certificate in the UAE

Obtaining an Ejari certificate is crucial for anyone renting a property in Dubai. It serves as more than just a formality – it is a legal requirement that ensures transparency and protects the rights of both tenants and landlords. Here’s why having an Ejari certificate is essential:

1. Legal Validity

The Ejari certificate is recognised legally and is enforceable in Dubai; it supports the tenancy contract. This legal validity protects both the tenant and the landlord, especially in the event of disputes.

2. Utility Activation

Tenants need the Ejari certificate as a step of authorisation for essential utilities like water and electricity (DEWA).

3. Visa and Residency Procedures

The Ejari certificate is usually a requirement to process visa and residency applications for yourself and your family members. It is seen as proof of residence in Dubai.

4. Dispute Resolution

In the event of disputes or misunderstandings between the tenants and landlord, the Ejari certificate acts as a reference point for resolving the issue fairly.

5. Tenant Rights

Ejari registration helps protect tenant rights by ensuring fair rental practices and preventing arbitrary rent increases.

How to Register Your Ejari Online

If anyone is looking to learn how to apply for Ejari, the online registration process is the most convenient option. Here are the two ways you can do an online Ejari registration:

1. Registering Through the Website

• Go to the official Dubai Land Department website

• Log in or create an account.

• Under “Services”, select “Tenant” from the drop-down menu.

• Go to “Real Estate Rental Services” then, select “Registration and Renewal of Lease Application”

• Click “Access this service” to start the Ejari registration process.

• Provide the property and contract details

• Upload the documents required.

• Pay the Ejari registration fee.

• Review accuracy of all entered information and documents

• Submit the application and wait for the certificate from DLD.

2. Ejari Registration Through Mobile App

If you choose to register for Ejari in Dubai through an app, you have two options: the Dubai REST app or the DubaiNow app.

1. Download the App you prefer on your phone.

2. Register with your valid passport, Emirates ID, and visa information.

3. Next, go to the “Service” section.

4. Then, go to the RERA tab and choose “Register Ejari Contract”.

5. Here, you are required to fill out the registration form.

6. Upload the documents requested and submit your online application for Ejari.

Whatever app you choose, make sure your landlord is also registered on the same app. This is because getting your documents approved from the landlord on the app is mandatory as part of the registration process.

After you complete the registration, your Ejari certificate will be processed and released within two working days.

Offline Ejari Registration Process

Anyone trying to understand where to do Ejari in Dubai without opting for online options needs to visit Ejari typing centres or Real Estate Trustee centres located throughout Dubai for the offline registration process.

Whether you are in the city or on the outskirts, you can easily find a typing centre near you, making it easy to register Ejari offline.

The best part about this offline process is that they provide you with comprehensive assistance, making the whole process seem easy. After reaching the typing centre, you need to follow the:

1. Request the Application Form

Visit any centre near you and request the application form.

2. Gather the Requested Documents

Make sure you have all the documents you need to complete the registration process.

3. Complete the Application

Fill out the form with the required details. You will need to provide details related to the tenancy contract and the new address.

4. Submit the Documents

Submit all the documents requested.

5. Pay the Fee

Enter your transaction data in the system at the typing centre for further verification and pay the fee.

6. Receive the Ejari Certificate

Get your Ejari certificate within two working days.

If you find this process complicated, the best way to comply with Ejari registration is to outsource PRO services. These experts streamline the process, ensuring everything is handled smoothly and efficiently during your renting process.

Purposes Requiring Ejari Certificate

A tenant needs an Ejari certificate to serve many purposes. Some of them include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Residence visas, new applications, and renewals

• Obtaining commercial licenses

• Employment of domestic staff

• Water and electricity (DEWA) connection

• Telephone and Internet connection

• Procurement of an alcohol license

• 100% protection of tenancy rights

• Dependents sponsorship becomes easy

• Easy contract revisions in case of any conflict between the tenant and the landlord

• Establishing companies or opening branches of the same in Dubailand becomes easy (only for commercial stakeholders)

Documents Needed For Ejari Registration

Here are some of the documents you will need to complete the Ejari registration process, regardless of whether it is online or offline.

• Original and signed tenancy contract

• The tenant’s Emirates ID

• Tenant’s passport copy- this is for non-GCC nationals

• Tenant’s UAE visa – for non-GCC nationals

• Landlord’s passport copy

• Trade license for commercial properties

• A Copy of Power of Attorney (PoA) if signed by a PoA

• A Copy of the title deed

• Security deposit receipt

• The DEWA bill and previous Ejari (for Ejari renewals)

The Ejari Renewal Process

The Ejari certificate is valid for one year. This means that it needs to be renewed annually. Tenants are also required to renew the Ejari when they are planning to change the property they are renting or when the leasing period is over. For landlords, the renewal is necessary when they are about to get a new tenant.

Anyone trying to understand how to renew Ejari has two options: online and offline—just like with the registration process.

How to Renew Ejari Online?

Renewing your Ejari is a straightforward process, especially with the convenience of online services. Staying up-to-date with your tenancy registration is crucial to avoid any legal issues and maintain uninterrupted access to essential utilities and government services.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to renew Ejari online quickly and efficiently.

1. Log in to the Ejari Portal

Use your existing credentials to log in and check if all the information is up-to-date.

2. Go To The Renewal Section

In the dashboard, locate and click on the section exclusively for renewals. This is labelled “Renewal” or “Renew My Ejari.”

3. Review and Update Information

Review the existing information. Update any details that have changed from the last registration. This can include lease terms, tenant information, or any other data.

4. Pay Renewal Fees

Next, go to the payment section and clear the payment. The fee will depend on many factors, such as the type of property and the duration of the lease.

5. Submit the Renewal Application

Once you made the payment, submit the renewal application for review.

6. Wait for Approval

Official authorities will approve your renewal application within a few days. Using your credentials, you can check the status of your renewal application on the online portal.

7. Receive Renewed Ejari Certificate

Once approved, you will receive the renewed certificate electronically. This certificate will provide official confirmation and proof that your tenancy contract is still valid and registered with the Ejari system.

Documents Need for the Renewal of Ejari Certificate Online

• Original signed tenancy contract

• Tenant’s Emirates ID, along with copies of their passport and visa

• Copy of the landlord’s passport (with visible signature)

• Copy of the title deed provided by the landlord

• Recent DEWA “green bill”

How to Renew Ejari Offline?

The offline Ejari renewal process is similar to registration. You will have to follow these steps:

1. Gather all the documents from the previous Ejari

2. Go to a Real Estate Services Trustees Centre

3. Inform the staff that you want to renew your Ejari

4. Submit your documents and pay the required fee

5. You will receive your renewed Ejari certificate within a few working days

The Ejari Cancellation Process

If you’re the party-tenant or landlord initiating the cancellation of Ejari, it’s important to notify the other party in writing. The writing should clearly state the reasons for cancellation, and both the parties involved should mutually agree on the termination terms if necessary.

The Ejari cancellation is the landlord’s responsibility as soon as the tenant moves out. Without cancelling the previous contract, the landlord cannot proceed with a new tenant. However, the tenant can cancel the Ejari contract when their agreement comes to an end.

If you’re wondering, “Do I need to cancel Ejari?” Here’s how—online and offline, similar to the registration and renewal processes.

How to Cancel Ejari Online?

If you want to cancel Ejari online, you can use the Dubai Land Department’s website or the Dubai RESt App. Whichever option you choose, here are the steps you need to follow:

1. Log into the website or app using the credentials you used to register your Ejari

2. Select the “Cancel Ejari” tab and navigate to the relevant section within the portal

3. Follow instructions as given by providing the requested information and clearly stating the reason for cancellation

4. Pay the cancellation fee

5. Submit the application and wait for the review

6. You will get an email if your request is approved

How to Cancel Ejari Offline?

1. Go to an Ejari office in person

2. Complete the cancellation form, providing the necessary details and clearly stating the reason for cancellation

3. Produce all the necessary documents

4. Submit the form and pay the cancellation fee

5. Wait for approval

Whichever option you choose, one of the most important steps in cancelling Ejari is submitting the final DEWA bill. The cancellation process will not continue if there are any outstanding DEWA bills.

Any physical copy of the bill should have “Final Bill” or “Paid” stamped clearly to continue the cancellation process. Alternatively, you can submit a copy of the Green Bill, which you can download from the DEWA website.

In some cases, other documents may be requested, especially with the offline Ejari cancellation process.

Documents Need for the Cancellation of Ejari

• Emirates ID of both tenant and landlord

• Existing Ejari certificate

• Tenant’s passport

• No Objection Certificate by the landlord

• Previous DEWA bill delivered to the tenant

• Original tenancy contract

• Termination letter from the property owner

How Much Does Ejari Registration Cost?

The cost of Ejari registration through the real estate services trustees’ centres or through offline mode is AED 239.75, including VAT.

Meanwhile, the Ejari registration fee for the online process, as per the DLD, is AED 175.

Not to mention, how much is Ejari in Dubai or the registration cost varies based on many factors like the type of property and the lease duration.

Ejari Contact Number and Timings

If you have any doubts about where to do Ejari in Dubai or any related questions, you can contact the official authorities at the Dubai Land Department (DLD) using the following details:

• Contact: +971-800-4488

• Office Timings: Sunday to Thursday, 07:30 am – 02:30 pm

• Address: Dubai Land Department, Baniyas Road P.O.Box: Dubai 1166 Makani: 30404 94991 United Arab Emirates

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Ejari mandatory?

Yes, under Law 26 of 2007 by RERA, Ejari is required by law to make rental contracts legally valid and protect the rights of both tenants and landlords.

How long does the Ejari registration take?

If all documents are in order and fees are paid, Ejari registration usually takes 1-2 days.

Who is responsible for registering Ejari, the tenant or the landlord?

While it’s the landlord’s responsibility, tenants often handle the registration and pay the fee.

What are the benefits of having an Ejari certificate?

An Ejari certificate validates the tenancy contract, helps resolve disputes, and is needed for services like DEWA connections, visa applications, and school enrolments.

What happens if the Ejari registration is not completed?

Without Ejari, tenants and landlords face legal issues, and tenants cannot access key services. Landlords may also face penalties.

Are there any penalties for not registering Ejari?

Yes. Not registering or evading from Ejari will result in penalties. The fee will vary based on the circumstance and period of delay.