There is no doubt that Dubai has become a global destination, attracting people from around the world to live, work, or visit.

The first question that comes to people’s minds when they decide to settle in Dubai or as they move apartments is where to stay. Therefore, the journey of renting in Dubai starts, and, depending on budgets, some tenants may go for furnished apartments while others may opt for unfurnished units. Monthly rent in Dubai differs from one area to another; therefore, it is always recommended to find the right developer that will help you make the right decision based on your budget, proximities, and lifestyle. This is where Wasl comes in, as its portfolio boasts an abundance of projects across Dubai suiting all tenants’ preferences.

If you’re moving into a new place in Dubai, Wasl will guide you every step of the way when it comes to renting in Dubai by shedding light on tenancy contracts, Ejari, DEWA, and more.

Getting your tenancy contract

After you select the area you plan to reside in and visit the property to check if it ticks all your boxes, you need to obtain your tenancy contract from the developer or real estate agent. This document is what regulates the rental property market and confirms your property leasing, preventing misunderstandings and future disputes that may occur.

Issuing an Ejari certificate

Once you receive your tenancy contract, you need to issue an Ejari certificate, which guarantees openness and transparency between the landlord and the tenant, fully integrating rental contracts into the legal system and allowing for easy contract revision in the event of a disagreement. The Ejari certificate also ensures that the rights of both the tenant and the landlord are ensured in the case of a conflict.

To complete your Ejari, all you have to do is prepare several documents before you head to the centre. These include an original signed tenancy contract, the tenant’s Emirates ID and copies of their passport and visa, a copy of the landlord’s passport (the signature needs to be visible), and a copy of the title deed that is provided by the landlord. The fee that you have to pay is only AED 206 plus VAT. If you are renewing your Ejari, you will also require a recent DEWA green bill.

In Dubai, there are five Ejari offices that do not require appointments; you just submit and present the relevant documents provided by your real estate agent or landlord to receive your Ejari certificate on the spot. Make sure that your Ejari is issued as soon as your tenancy contract is signed.

Activating your water and electricity service

After you get your Ejari, the next step is to start an account with Dubai Electricity and Water Authority ( DEWA ), the emirate’s official electricity and water supplier. Customers can either choose to set up the connection online or visit a Customer Happiness Centre.

Setting up your DEWA account is a lot simpler than you think. While there are a few documents needed and security deposits to pay, once you’ve gathered the information, you can get your DEWA service up and running in less than a day. It can’t get any easier.

The documents that you need are an Ejari contract, a title deed for owners, an Emirates ID (except for GCC Nationals) and a copy of your passport. A security deposit needs to be paid, which is AED 2,000 for an apartment and AED 4,000 for a villa.

Once the above is done, your connection will be activated by DEWA.

Setting up your Wi-Fi connection

To complete your home, a Wi-Fi connection is needed to get connected to the world. Etisalat and du are the sole providers of internet connection in Dubai, and with a few steps, you can complete this process. All you have to do is submit all the required documents at the respective service centres, pay the required installation fees, and book a technician to install the connection for you.

Why Wasl?

Wasl is one of the most renowned real estate development and management companies in Dubai, managing an extensive real estate portfolio spanning more than 50,000 residential and commercial properties across the emirate.

The company offers a range of e-services under one roof, including a 24-hour call centre providing premier customer service; contract leasing, renewing and termination; and maintenance requests.

To start your rental journey and discover how easy it is to rent an apartment in Dubai, download the Wasl leasing app and search for the available properties. For further information, contact 800-Wasl (800-9275) or lease@wasl.ae .

Finding an apartment in Dubai has never been easier!