Tenant Guide
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Tenant Guide: Your Step-by-Step Journey to Renting in Dubai

Welcome to a city where luxury, lifestyle, and endless opportunities come together—Dubai. As one of the world’s most exciting places to live, Dubai offers a wide variety of residential options across vibrant neighborhoods, from beachfront apartments to sleek urban towers.

At HAVENHUES REAL ESTATE L.L.C, we’ve crafted this comprehensive Tenant Guide to help you make informed, confident decisions as you secure your next home in this dynamic city.

Step 1
Set Your Budget & Rental Criteria

Start by deciding what matters most to you:

  • Location and community vibe
  • Property size and layout
  • Amenities (pool, gym, parking, concierge, etc.)
  • Proximity to work, schools, or public transport

Budget Wisely: Keep in mind that the advertised rent does not include additional costs such as:

  • Security Deposit: Typically 5–10% of annual rent
  • Brokerage Fee: Usually 5% of annual rent or a minimum of AED 5,000
  • Relocation Expenses: Moving company, packaging, etc.
  • Utility Deposits: For gas, DEWA (Dubai Electricity & Water Authority), and Etisalat
  • Dubai Municipality Housing Fee: 5% of the annual rent, payable monthly via DEWA
Step 2
Prepare Your Documents

To rent a property in Dubai, you’ll need:

  • Valid passport copy
  • Residence visa
  • Emirates ID

Having these documents and the required funds ready will speed up the leasing process significantly.

Step 3
Work with a Registered Real Estate Broker

In Dubai’s competitive rental market, a RERA-certified broker is essential. At HAVENHUES, our licensed agents will:

  • Help shortlist suitable properties
  • Arrange and accompany you on viewings
  • Negotiate with landlords on your behalf

Tip: Always ask to see your broker’s RERA card for verification. During viewings, take note of the condition of the property and raise any maintenance issues to be addressed before you move in.

Step 4
Make an Offer & Submit Required Cheques

Once you’ve found a suitable property:

  • Your broker will submit an offer to the landlord
  • Be prepared to provide:
    • Emirates ID
    • Passport
    • Residence visa
    • Three post-dated cheques:
      • 1 for security deposit
      • 1 for the first rent payment
      • 1 for the brokerage commission

You can negotiate:

  • The rental amount
  • The payment structure (from 1 cheque to up to 12 post-dated cheques)

Important: Bouncing a cheque in the UAE is a criminal offense. Always ensure sufficient funds are available.

Step 5
Sign the Tenancy Agreement & Register with Ejari

Before signing:

  • Carefully review all clauses in the tenancy contract
  • Ensure all agreed terms are included in writing (maintenance responsibilities, payment terms, etc.)

Once signed, register the contract with Ejari—a government-regulated system that formalizes your rental agreement.

Required documents:

  • Tenancy contract
  • Title deed
  • Landlord’s ID
  • Your Emirates ID and passport

You can complete Ejari registration at centers like Al Manara Centre or through online Ejari platforms.

Step 6
Apply for DEWA (Water & Electricity)

To activate water and electricity services:

  1. Visit www.dewa.gov.ae or download the DEWA app
  2. Submit your:
    • Ejari number
    • Emirates ID
    • Passport copy
  3. Pay the security deposit online

our service will be connected within 24 hours.

Welcome to Your New Home!

At HAVENHUES, we go beyond the deal. From the first viewing to your move-in day and beyond, our dedicated team is here to support you. Renting a home should be smooth, secure, and satisfying—and that’s exactly what we deliver.

Need Help Finding the Perfect Home?

Reach out to our Sales & Leasing Specialists today and let HAVENHUES guide you home.

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