Is Ejari mandatory for all Dubai rentals?

Yes. Every residential contract must be registered with the Dubai Land Department.

How long does Ejari registration take?

Online approval is instant once payment clears. Typing centres usually finish same day.

Can I register Ejari without an Emirates ID?

New arrivals can use their entry stamp. Emirates ID is required for visa holders after 60 days.

What happens if my Ejari expires?

Your contract loses legal protection and DEWA may disconnect utilities until you renew.

Ejari Registration in 2026: Step-by-Step Process and Cost

Why Ejari Registration Matters in 2026

Every residential tenancy contract in Dubai must be registered with the Dubai Land Department through the Ejari system. Without a valid Ejari, your contract is not legally recognised, you cannot open DEWA accounts, and you risk fines or disputes. The process protects both tenants and landlords under RERA rules.

Who Needs to Register Ejari

Any expat signing a new lease, renewing an existing contract, or subletting a property must complete Ejari registration. The landlord or their authorised agent usually initiates the process, but the tenant pays the fee and must verify the details.

Required Documents in 2026

Original signed tenancy contract (two copies)
Passport copies of all tenants (valid for at least six months)
Valid Emirates ID or entry stamp for new arrivals
Property title deed or Ejari of the owner (for new builds)
Security deposit receipt if paid outside the contract

Two Ways to Register: Online or Typing Centre

You can complete Ejari online through the Dubai REST app or the Ejari portal, or visit an approved typing centre. Online registration takes 10 to 15 minutes if all documents are ready. Typing centres charge an extra service fee of AED 50 to AED 100 on top of the official fee.

Step-by-Step Ejari Registration Process

1. Landlord uploads the signed contract and supporting documents to the Ejari portal or hands them to a typing centre.
2. Tenant reviews the contract details and pays the registration fee.
3. System generates a unique Ejari number and digital certificate valid for the contract period.
4. Both parties receive the certificate by email and can download it from the portal.
5. Present the Ejari certificate when applying for DEWA connection or residency visa stamping.

Cost Breakdown for 2026

Official Ejari fee	AED 220 per contract
Typing centre service fee	AED 50 to AED 100 (optional)
Contract amendment	AED 110 per change

The AED 220 fee covers one calendar year or the full contract duration, whichever is shorter. No renewal fee applies until the contract ends or is amended.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Signing a contract without Ejari registration leaves you unprotected in disputes.
Using an unapproved typing centre can delay processing by several days.
Entering incorrect tenancy dates leads to automatic rejection and a new AED 220 payment.

Ask Tovi for more

Tovi knows current 2026 UAE rules, fees, and processes. Ask anything, visas, banking, housing, schools. Ask Tovi free →

Got more UAE questions?

Tovi knows current 2026 UAE rules, fees, and processes. Ask anything — visas, banking, housing, schools. Ask Tovi free →