The Ultimate Guide to Renting in Dubai (2025)

Renting in Dubai is… unique. In most countries, you pay monthly. Here? You might have to write a single check for AED 100,000 and hand it over to a stranger. Terrifying? Yes. Normal? Also yes.

Let’s walk through the minefield of renting your first home without getting scammed.

1. The “Checks” System

This is the biggest shock for newcomers. Landlords prefer getting paid upfront.

• 1 Check: You pay the full year’s rent on day one. You usually get the best price this way.
• 4 Checks: The most common. You pay every 3 months.
• 12 Checks: Paying monthly. This is becoming more popular, but landlords might ask for a higher total rent (e.g., AED 85k instead of 80k).

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🧮 Calculate Your Payments

See how your cash flow changes depending on how many checks you agree to.

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2. The Hidden Fees (Budget for These!)

The rent price isn’t the final price. You need to have cash ready for:

• Security Deposit: 5% of rent (unfurnished) or 10% (furnished).
• Agency Fee: 5% of rent + VAT. This goes to the real estate agent.
• Ejari: ~AED 220. This registers your contract with the government. Mandatory.
• DEWA Deposit: AED 2,000 (apartment) or AED 4,000 (villa) for electricity/water connection.

3. Red Flags 🚩

• “Chiller Free”: Always ask this. If it’s NOT chiller free, you pay for the AC usage separately, which can be huge in summer.
• Cash Only: Never pay rent in cash. Always use a manager’s check or bank transfer to the landlord’s account (check the Title Deed!).
• Too Good To Be True: If a Marina apartment is listed for AED 40k, it’s a scam. Walk away.

4. Ejari is Your Best Friend

Once you sign, go type “Ejari” into Google and register immediately. This gives you legal rights. Without it, you can’t get internet, you can’t sponsor your family, and you can’t dispute anything if the landlord tries to kick you out.