Do I need an agent to rent in Dubai?

No, you can rent directly from landlords on Bayut or Property Finder, but most listings still route through agents who charge 5 percent.

How much deposit is required?

Landlords typically ask for 5 percent of annual rent as security deposit, returned at the end of the tenancy after inspection.

When should I start looking?

Begin 4-6 weeks before your move-in date. Peak seasons fill faster and good units in popular districts can go within days of listing.

Yes. The Dubai Land Department requires every tenancy contract to be registered as Ejari before you can connect utilities.

Finding an Apartment in Dubai: Where to Start in 2026

Choose the right portals first

Begin on Bayut and Property Finder. Both list verified listings with photos, floor plans, and price histories. Filter by community, building completion date, and payment plan. Set alerts for new listings in your target AED range so you see options the same day they appear.

Work with an agent or go direct

Most landlords still use agents. Standard commission in 2026 is 5 percent of annual rent paid by the tenant, split between the listing and tenant agents. Ask for the agency agreement in writing and confirm who pays what before you view. If a landlord advertises directly on the portals, you can negotiate the fee or skip it.

Pick your district with numbers in mind

Compare total monthly costs, not just rent. In Jumeirah Village Circle a one-bedroom averages 55,000-65,000 AED per year. In Downtown Dubai the same unit starts at 110,000 AED. Add DEWA, internet, and parking. Factor commute time via Metro or taxi. Shortlist three districts that fit both budget and daily travel.

Prepare your documents before the first viewing

Landlords and agents ask for the same package every time: Emirates ID or passport copy, visa page, and proof of income for the past three months. Keep scanned PDFs on your phone. If you are new to the UAE, bring a sponsor letter or employment contract instead of local bank statements.

Viewings that actually help

Book morning and evening slots for the same unit to check traffic noise and natural light. Test every tap, flush, and AC unit. Measure the distance from the building entrance to the nearest RTA bus or Metro station. Take photos of meter readings and note any existing damage on the inventory list before you sign.

Understand the contract timeline

Once you agree on price, the agent issues a Tenancy Contract through the Dubai Land Department system. You pay the security deposit (usually 5 percent) plus the first cheque. The contract is registered within 24 hours and you receive the Ejari number by email. Keep this number for DEWA activation and future moves.

Move-in costs to budget

First month's rent or first cheque
Security deposit: 5 percent of annual rent
Agency fee: 5 percent
DEWA deposit: 1,000-2,000 AED
Internet setup: 300-500 AED

Total cash needed on signing day is usually 1.5 to 2 months' rent in total.

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 →