Dubai Housing Guide
Renting & Buying
Everything you need to know about finding, renting, or buying a home in Dubai. From understanding the cheque system to Ejari registration and tenant rights.
Dubai Housing at a Glance
Choose Your Path
Whether you're looking to rent or buy, we have guides for both journeys.
Renting
Perfect for most new arrivals
Flexibility to explore different areas, lower upfront costs, and no long-term commitment. Ideal if you're new to Dubai or staying less than 3 years.
Buying
For long-term residents & investors
Build equity, no annual rent increases, potential Golden Visa eligibility. No property tax makes Dubai ownership attractive long-term.
Ejari registration is legally required for all Dubai rentals. Without it, you cannot connect DEWA, get internet, sponsor family visas, or resolve disputes. Make sure your landlord provides the title deed for registration.
Renting Guides
Everything you need to know about renting an apartment or villa in Dubai.
Finding an Apartment in Dubai
Where to search, how to filter listings, and what to watch out for.
Dubai Rental Process Explained
Step-by-step guide from offer to move-in, with timelines and costs.
How to Rent an Apartment in Dubai
Complete step-by-step process from search to move-in, including Ejari, deposits, and cheques.
Dubai Rental Prices by Area (2025)
Comprehensive price guide for studios to villas across all Dubai neighborhoods.
Understanding Ejari Registration
What Ejari is, why you need it, and how to register online or in person.
Dubai Rental Cheques Explained
How the cheque payment system works, 1 vs 4 vs 12 cheques, and what to expect.
Chiller Fees: Which Buildings to Avoid
Hidden cooling costs that can add thousands to your annual expenses.
Furnished vs Unfurnished Apartments
Cost comparison, pros and cons, and which option is right for your situation.
Dubai Tenant Rights
What landlords cannot do, rent increase limits, eviction rules, and how to file complaints.
Best Areas to Live in Dubai
Neighborhood guide for renters by lifestyle, budget, and priorities.
Apartments vs Villas
Compare costs, lifestyle, and which is right for your situation.
Buying Guides
For those ready to invest in Dubai property.
More Housing Resources
Additional guides for temporary housing and moving.
Short-Term Rentals in Dubai
Monthly rentals, holiday lets, and temporary accommodation options.
Moving Companies in Dubai
Local movers, international relocation, costs, and tips for a smooth move.
Moving to a New Apartment Checklist
Everything you need to do before, during, and after your move.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about housing in Dubai.
Yes, expats can rent any property in Dubai. You'll need a valid residence visa, Emirates ID, and passport. The process involves finding a property, signing a tenancy contract, registering Ejari, and paying via post-dated cheques. Most landlords require 1-4 cheques for the year's rent upfront.
Expect to pay 15-20% of annual rent upfront:
- First rent cheque(s): 25-100% of annual rent
- Security deposit: 5% of annual rent
- Agency fee: 5% + VAT
- DEWA deposit: AED 2,000-4,000
- Ejari registration: AED 220
For an AED 80,000/year apartment with 4 cheques, expect ~AED 30,000 upfront.
Ejari is Dubai's official tenancy registration system. It's a legal requirement for all rentals and you'll need it to: connect DEWA (electricity/water), get internet, sponsor family visas, enroll children in school, and resolve any rental disputes. Registration costs AED 220 and can be done online via the Dubai REST app.
Yes, foreigners can buy property with 100% freehold ownership in designated areas (Dubai Marina, Downtown, Palm Jumeirah, JBR, Arabian Ranches, Dubai Hills, etc.). There's no residency requirement to purchase. Properties worth AED 2 million+ can qualify you for a 10-year Golden Visa.
Rent if: You\'re new to Dubai, staying less than 3 years, want flexibility, or don\'t have large upfront capital.
Buy if: You\'re staying long-term, want to build equity, qualify for Golden Visa, or want rental income. Dubai has no property tax, making ownership attractive for long-term residents.
Rent increases are regulated by RERA (Real Estate Regulatory Agency). Landlords must give 90 days notice and increases are capped based on how your current rent compares to market rates. If you're paying at or above market rate, no increase is allowed. Use the RERA rent calculator to check if a proposed increase is legal.
Related Guides
Explore more about living in Dubai.
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