Rent in Dubai: Regulations and procedures

Find out more about rent in Dubai

Dubai offers a range of accommodation to suit all tastes and budgets. From ultra-modern city-centre residences to luxurious beachfront villas and spacious family flats, there’s a place to call home. However, Dubai’s property market is also characterised by its diversity in terms of cost, which raises questions about affordability and the challenges associated with the Dubai rental market.

How much does rent cost in Dubai?

Here are the average rental prices in Dubai for the different types of accommodation available:

Studio apartment: €600 to €900/month
T1: €900 to €1400/month
T2: €1,400 to €2,000
T3: €2,000 and more
Villa: from €1,500/month

It’s worth bearing in mind that rent in Dubai is calculated by the year and not by the month, which may seem rather strange to a expat moving to Dubai. What’s more, rental contracts are easily renewable. Generally, you are given 90 days’ notice to decide whether or not to keep your lease. Rent is not usually paid by the year. It can be paid in advance or by issuing post-dated cheques. Depending on the type of accommodation you choose, the price of rent and utilities may be different.

With utilities included (water + electricity), you should expect to pay around €150 extra per month. There are also a number of additional expenses that can add slightly to the rent. For example, air conditioning may not be included in the rental contract, and the same applies to garden or courtyard maintenance.

Where to stay in Dubai for cheap?

If you’re looking for affordable accommodation options in Dubai, here are some neighbourhoods and areas that are generally considered more economical. Keep in mind that prices may vary depending on factors such as the size of the accommodation, amenities and the precise location within these neighborhoods :

International City: Located in the south-western part of Dubai, International City is known for its relatively affordable rents. It offers a variety of flats and studios at more affordable prices than other parts of the city.

Discovery Gardens: This district is renowned for its spacious flats at affordable rates. It is located near Jebel Ali and offers a range of amenities for residents.

Dubai Investment Park: This area is primarily focused on businesses, but also offers affordable housing options for residents. Flats and villas can be found here at competitive prices.

Al Warqa: Located in the eastern part of Dubai, Al Warqa offers more affordable accommodation while being relatively close to the city centre.

Al Qusais: This neighbourhood is close to Dubai International Airport and offers affordable flats and villas.

Al Nahda: Split between Dubai and Sharjah, Al Nahda offers affordable housing options and a variety of amenities.

Remraam: Located in Dubai Land, Remraam offers flats and studios at competitive rates.

Dubai Silicon Oasis: Although primarily known as a technology park, Dubai Silicon Oasis also offers affordable housing options for residents.

Jebel Ali: Located further from the city centre, Jebel Ali offers cheaper accommodation options, including flats and villas.

Satwa: This area is more centrally located and offers more economical housing options, although amenities may vary.

How do I find a flat to rent?

To find a flat to rent in Dubai, you can follow these steps to make your search easier and ensure you find the option that best suits your needs and budget:

Step 1. Define your criteria: Before you begin your search, determine your flat requirements, such as size, number of bedrooms, amenities needed, preferred location, and of course, your budget.

Step 2. Check real estate websites: There are many real estate websites dedicated to Dubai where you can find listings of flats for rent. Some examples of popular sites include Dubizzle, Property Finder, Bayut, and JustProperty.

Step 3. Use social networks: Join Facebook groups and pages dedicated to finding accommodation in Dubai. Landlords and estate agents often post ads on these platforms.

Step 4. Consult estate agents: Local estate agents can help you find accommodation options that match your criteria. They can also provide information on neighbourhoods, amenities and market trends.

Step 5. Browse local newspapers: Some rental ads may also appear in local newspapers.

Step 6. Visit property fairs: Dubai regularly hosts property fairs where you can meet real estate agents, developers and explore various housing options.

Step 7. Visit: Once you’ve identified a few interesting options, schedule visits to see the flats in person. This will give you a better idea of the space, location and amenities.

Step 8. Check regulations: Make sure you understand the regulations and legal requirements for renting in Dubai. Some areas may have specific rules regarding residential rentals.

Step 9. Negotiate the rent: Once you’ve found a flat you like, don’t hesitate to negotiate the rent with the landlord or estate agent. In some cases, it is possible to negotiate.

Step 10. Sign the rental contract: Once you are satisfied with all aspects of the flat and have agreed the terms with the landlord, make sure you read the rental contract carefully and clarify any ambiguous points before signing it.

Don’t forget to be vigilant and take your time to do thorough research to find a flat that meets your needs and expectations. Renting a home is a big commitment, so it’s essential to make informed decisions.

How do I sign a lease?

Signing a lease is an important step when renting accommodation in Dubai. Here are the general steps to follow when signing a lease:

Step 1. Selecting the property: Once you have found a property that suits you and have agreed the rental terms with the landlord or real estate agent, you can move on to signing the lease.

Step 2. Examine the contract: Before signing, you should read the tenancy agreement carefully. Make sure you understand all the terms, conditions, obligations and responsibilities described in the contract.

Step 3. Negotiation (if necessary): If you have any concerns or questions about the contract, this is the time to raise them with the landlord or estate agent. If adjustments need to be made to the contract, be sure to negotiate them and reach a mutual agreement.

Step 4. Prepare the documents: Prepare the necessary documents for signing the lease. This may include a copy of your passport, a valid visa, a copy of your residence permit (if applicable), and other documents required by the landlord or estate agent.

Step 5. Sign the contract: Arrange a meeting with the landlord or estate agent to sign the rental contract. Make sure that all parties involved in the tenancy are present at the signing. The contract should be signed in the presence of a witness (usually the estate agent or a representative of the agency).

Step 6. Initial payment: In addition to signing the contract, it is common practice to make an initial payment, such as the first month’s rent and a security deposit. Be sure to discuss payment details with the landlord or real estate agent and obtain a receipt for each payment made.

Step 7. Register the contract: Under Dubai regulations, the rental contract must be registered with the Ejari system (Electronic Real Estate Registration System) to be legally valid. This can be done online or at an Ejari centre.

Step 8. Copies of the contract: Make sure you obtain signed copies of the rental contract for your personal file. This may be useful in the future for reference or in the event of a dispute.

Remember that property rental and the rental market in Dubai are governed by specific laws and regulations. It is advisable to consult a property professional or lawyer for legal advice if required. For more detailed advice and personalised assistance, contact us and let us help and support you with our local partners.