Beginners Guide to Rent Property in Dubai

In recent decades, Dubai has emerged as an attractive destination for expats from all over the world. Besides, the emirate provides ample opportunities for recreation, raising a family and a high quality of life. So, if you are in Dubai and renting a property for the first time, you must learn a few things about rental laws and regulations.

Moving to Dubai brings a checklist of things you need to address before you move and one of them is finding a comfortable place to live.

Here are a few things you must consider before renting in Dubai for the first time.

• How to Rent a Property in Dubai for the First-Time
• Setting up a Budget
• Finding a reliable Real Estate Agent or Agency
• Finding the right property
• Understand the Tenancy Law
• Renewal and Termination of Lease

How to Rent a Property in Dubai for the First-Time

Renting is the go-to pick for new expats moving to Dubai. This is because renting gives you the flexibility to switch your residence when it doesn’t meet your requirements. Additionally, renting lowers the moving-in cost, which can be a matter of concern if you are on a budget.  

Let’s go through this guide to renting in Dubai for the first time. 

Setting up a Budget

Deciding a budget beforehand is very important to estimate the total cost of your rented property. Renting a property brings a number of additional costs apart from the rent. These hidden costs of renting in Dubai include the following:

• Security deposit  is usually up to 5-10% of the annual rent
• The agency fee is 2% of the annual rent paid 
• Monthly charges for electricity and water supply.
• For chiller-free apartments, the charges vary from AED 500 to AED 2000
• The annual Dubai Municipality housing fee is around 5% of the annual rent. It is part of the DEWA bills

Finding a reliable Real Estate Agent or Agency

If you are moving to Dubai for the first time, you will require an understanding of the rental market. For that reason, instead of looking for rental properties in Dubai by yourself, it is better to find an expert real estate agent or agency.  You can look for super agents who are experienced in Dubai’s real estate market. 

Finding the right property

Selecting the right property that offers the best comfort and cosiness for you and your family is the most important part of renting a property in Dubai for the first time. Of course, your agent will help you find the perfect property that fits your budget and family or personal requirements. 

Here are a few things you must try before you rent property in Dubai:

• Check out online listings at Property Finder.
• Research different neighbourhoods using Data Guru by Property Finder. Dubai has diverse neighbourhoods and offers something for everyone. You can also explore the best areas to rent in Dubai.

Understand the Tenancy Law

One of the essential tips for renting in Dubai for the first time is to understand the rights and responsibilities of a tenant. First of all, register your tenancy contract with Ejari. You must read the terms and conditions of the tenancy contract carefully before signing it.

Some of the essential rights and responsibilities stated in the Dubai rental laws include the following:

• Understand the division of repair and maintenance between tenant and landlord. The tenant is responsible for minor repairs, such as changing lights and maintaining cleanliness.
• For disputes, tenants can complain to the Rental Dispute Committee (RDC). Besides, learn how to resolve the rental dispute in Dubai, from filing cases to finding solutions.
• Landlords can’t evict tenants without a notice of 90 days.
• Tenants must take care of the property and avoid damaging the property.
• Landlords can increase rent but only under certain conditions.

Renewal and termination of lease

Among the things to know before renting in Dubai is that you must learn about the termination of the contract. Also, renewal must be kept in mind if the landlord and tenant form a good relationship.

Those who are renting in Dubai for the first time must keep in mind the following:

• The notification period required for renewal of the lease is mostly 90 days before the lease expires.
• It’s important to have rent negotiations and new lease term policies in writing to avoid any future disputes.
• Tenants should provide written notice citing their intent to vacate the property at the end of the lease at least 90 days before the lease ends.

When it comes to renting in Dubai for the first time, choosing the right property among plenty of available options is very important. Following this guide will surely help you have a smooth and hassle-free renting experience in Dubai.

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