If you’re renting, investing, or starting a business in Dubai, you’ve probably heard the word Ejari. But no one really tells you what it is or why it matters so much.
It sounds like just another form. But here’s the truth:
Without Ejari, you can’t get DEWA. You can’t renew your visa. You can’t protect your rights as a tenant or business.
In this guide, I’ll show you exactly:
- What Ejari is
- How to do Ejari online or at a center
- How much it costs
- How to renew or cancel it when your lease changes
And a few things most people miss (that could delay your paperwork or cost you extra).
So before you sign anything or start stressing over DEWA, read this first.
You’ll save time, money, and maybe a few headaches.
What Is Ejari?
Ejari is the system Dubai uses to officially record rental agreements. The word “Ejari” means “my rent” in Arabic.
If you rent any place in Dubai like a house, apartment, office, or shop you must register your rental contract through Ejari. It’s required by law.
Ejari is handled by RERA (Real Estate Regulatory Authority).
Without Ejari, you can’t:
- Set up DEWA (water and electricity)
- Renew your visa
- Get a trade license for your business
- Take legal action if there’s a problem with your landlord or tenant
In short: no Ejari = no protection, no utilities, no approval.
How to Do Ejari in Dubai (Step-by-Step)
Option 1: Online via Dubai REST
Super easy. Here’s how:
- Download the Dubai REST app
- Log in with your UAE Pass
- Upload:
- Signed tenancy contract
- Emirates ID (tenant)
- Title deed or landlord ID
- DEWA premises number
- Trade license (if commercial)
- Signed tenancy contract
- Pay the fee
- Download your Ejari certificate
Takes 10–15 minutes.
Option 2: Visit a Typing Center
Prefer face-to-face help? Head to any RERA-approved typing center. Bring the same docs. They’ll do it for you and hand you a printed certificate. Typing center fee may apply (AED 30–50 for service charge).
Ejari Fees in Dubai (2025)
Here’s what you’ll pay:
- Base registration: AED 220
- Knowledge & Innovation fees: AED 20
- System processing fee: AED 10
Total: AED 250
Where to Do Ejari in Dubai
- Dubai REST app (most convenient)
- Ejari typing centers across the city
- Some real estate agencies offer it in-house
Important: Only register through official channels. Fake or unregistered Ejari can cost you literally and legally.
Ejari Number for DEWA
To activate DEWA, you need your Ejari number a unique ID printed on your certificate. Without it, you can’t set up electricity or water for your home or office.
Ejari Renewal
Renewing your lease? You must renew your Ejari, too.
Here’s how:
- Log into Dubai REST
- Select your old contract
- Upload the new lease
- Pay AED 250
- Download updated certificate
Don’t skip this step without a valid Ejari, you could face delays with DEWA, visa renewals, or trade license applications.
Ejari Cancellation
Leaving the property? Cancel Ejari before moving out. Usually handled by the landlord, but tenants can request it too.
What’s needed:
- Ejari certificate
- Emirates ID
- Lease contract
- Consent from both parties
Done via Dubai REST or a typing center.
Who Needs Ejari?
Everyone involved in a rental contract in Dubai.This includes tenants, landlords, business owners, and property investors anyone who wants their lease to be legally valid and recognized.
- Tenants: To legally live and connect utilities
- Landlords: To protect your property rights
- Business owners: For office/shop registration
- Investors: To keep your rental portfolio compliant
Quick Tips to Avoid Ejari Mistakes
- Always renew on time
- Keep soft and hard copies of your certificate
- If something feels off, verify it on the RERA system
Why You Can’t Skip Ejari in Dubai
Ejari is your legal armor. Whether you’re a tenant trying to set up DEWA, a landlord with multiple units, or a business owner starting up in Dubai Ejari is the foundation. Miss it, and you risk delays, fines, and legal stress you don’t need.
Conclusion
Download the Dubai REST app, get your docs ready, and register or renew your Ejari now.
Need help? Legacy Dubai is here to guide you whether you’re renting, buying, or setting up your next project.
Let’s make your Dubai rental journey smooth, stress-free, and fully legal.
Common Questions About Ejari
1.Is Ejari refundable?
No, the Ejari fee is non-refundable.
2.Who pays for Ejari in Dubai?
Usually, the tenant pays for the Ejari registration fee.
3.How much does Ejari cost?
The total Ejari cost is AED 250, which includes a base registration fee of AED 220, Knowledge and Innovation fees of AED 20, and a system processing fee of AED 10.
