Real estate experts at Arvish Properties have compiled a guide for new residents on what to expect when renting a property in Dubai. This article provides an overview of payment options, rent laws and what is expected of tenants when renting property in Dubai.
Most landlords in Dubai lease their property on a fixed-term lease, an agreement between the landlord and the tenant to meet the contractual obligations over a specified period. In Dubai, rental agreements are usually renewed on an annual basis. Before signing anything, the tenant must fully understand the contract. Before signing a lease agreement, ask the homeowner or real estate agent a number of questions. The terms of the agreement, the facilities, the listed costs, the payment method and the maintenance responsibilities of the tenant and the landlord should all be defined in the agreement.
To rent an apartment in Dubai, tenants must present their national passport, a copy of their visa, and an Emirates ID. If the novice does not have all the required documents, he should sign the contract indefinitely.
Landlords in Dubai rarely accept monthly rent payments and instead request rent in checks, which can range from one check to four checks. This system assures landlords that tenants will comply with the rules and stay for the duration of the contract. The number of checks approved for payment is usually negotiable. Landlords can reduce rents by giving less checks throughout the year.
Renting a property in Dubai requires a security deposit equal to 5% of the annual rent and the real estate agent\'s fee. The security deposit will be refunded upon completion of the lease agreement. Tenants are also required to pay the Dubai Electric and Water Authority (DEWA), which can cost up to AED 2,000 just to register, as well as a monthly fee based on utility usage.
In the UAE, knowing that a check will bounce and be submitted is a criminal offense. Under Section 401 of the UAE Penal Code, if a person is found to have intentionally issued a bounced check, he or she may face imprisonment or a fine. Be careful if the landlord has the amount of penalty that the tenant has to pay if the check bounces. Before signing a lease agreement, find out if this clause exists. If the penalty is not specified in their lease agreement, the tenant is not required to pay it.
Ejari is a rental portal operated by the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) to maintain and improve transactions in the rental market in Dubai. All tenants in Dubai are required to register with Ejari. Lease registration fees are usually paid by the tenant. Unregistered tenants will not be able to take legal action against their landlord. It is advisable to register with Ejari as soon as your lease agreement starts.
