Ejari, Deposits and Cheques Explained (2026)

When you rent in Dubai, three things come up almost every time: Ejari, the security deposit and the rent cheques. Here is what each one means.

01. Ejari

Ejari is the official registration of your tenancy contract. Dubai law requires tenancy contracts to be registered, and it confirms the details of your tenancy and protects your rights, including the rules on rent increases and notice. You normally need it to connect utilities, and it is often asked for in visa and other paperwork. Your landlord or agent registers it, and there is a small government fee: about AED 120 in total when registered online, and more through a service centre.

02. The security deposit

• It is commonly 5% of annual rent for unfurnished homes and 10% for furnished homes. This is market practice, so confirm the amount in the contract.
• It is refundable at the end of the tenancy, minus the cost of any damage beyond normal wear.
• Take dated photos of the property when you move in, so there is no dispute later.

03. Paying by cheque

Rent is often paid by one, two or four cheques, and some landlords agree to more instalments. Cheques are post-dated, and a bounced cheque can have serious legal consequences in the UAE, so only agree to a schedule you can meet.

04. Other costs to ask about

• The agency fee, which is commonly paid by the tenant.
• Utility connection charges and deposits.
• District cooling or maintenance charges, if they apply to the building.

05. Before you sign

• Check the landlord's ownership and the Trakheesi permit on the listing.
• Read the contract for the term, rent, payment dates, maintenance responsibilities and the notice needed to leave.
• Keep copies of the contract, the Ejari certificate and every payment receipt.

Learn how renewals work in rent increase rules in Dubai, or go back to the Tenant's Guide.

Official sources: Dubai Land Department: Ejari · Dubai Land Department: tenancy guide and laws

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