Ejari registration is one of the most important things a tenant must do after signing a tenancy contract in Dubai. Without it, your contract has no legal standing, you cannot renew your residence visa, and you may struggle to connect utilities. This guide covers everything you need to register Ejari in 2026.
What is Ejari?
Ejari — which means 'my rent' in Arabic — is the official tenancy registration system operated by the Dubai Land Department (DLD). It was launched to create a transparent, government-verified record of all rental contracts in Dubai. Every tenancy contract signed in Dubai must be registered on Ejari within 30 days of signing.
Once registered, Ejari generates an official registration certificate that proves the tenancy is legally recognised. This certificate is required for residence visa renewals, DEWA connection, school enrollment, and many other government services.
Who is Responsible for Registering Ejari?
By default, Ejari registration is the tenant's responsibility in Dubai. However, the DLD Unified Tenancy Contract allows the parties to agree otherwise — some landlords register Ejari themselves, especially in larger managed buildings. Clarify this with your landlord before signing and note it in the contract's Additional Terms section if needed.
Documents Required for Ejari Registration
- Signed original DLD Unified Tenancy Contract
- Tenant's passport copy
- Tenant's UAE residence visa copy
- Tenant's Emirates ID copy
- Landlord's passport copy (if individual landlord)
- Property Title Deed copy
- DEWA bill or premises number (for the property)
If you are registering for the first time on a new contract, you will also need to provide the previous Ejari cancellation certificate if the property was previously rented.
How to Register Ejari Online (Dubai REST App)
How to Register Ejari at a Typing Centre
If you prefer in-person registration, any RERA-approved typing centre in Dubai can handle Ejari registration. Centres are located throughout the city. Take original documents and copies. The process typically takes 30–60 minutes. Fees at typing centres may be slightly higher than online due to service charges.
Ejari Registration Fees
- New registration: AED 220 + VAT = AED 231 total
- Renewal: AED 220 + VAT = AED 231 total
- Typing centre in-person: AED 220 + typing centre service fee (typically AED 50–100)
How Long Does Ejari Registration Take?
Online via Dubai REST app: typically 1–3 hours if documents are complete and correct. At a typing centre: same day in most cases. If documents have issues, you will be notified and given the opportunity to resubmit.
Renewing Ejari at the End of Your Contract
When your tenancy contract is renewed, Ejari must be renewed too. The process is the same as the initial registration. The old Ejari certificate must be cancelled first, then the new contract registered. Do not leave a gap between the old and new Ejari registration — this can cause issues with visa renewals and government services.
What Happens if You Don't Register Ejari?
- Your tenancy contract has no legal standing in Dubai courts
- You cannot renew your UAE residence visa
- DEWA may refuse to activate utilities without an Ejari certificate
- You cannot file a rental dispute at the Rental Dispute Settlement Centre
- Schools and government departments requiring proof of residency will reject your contract
- You may face fines for non-registration