Signed your tenancy contract in Dubai? Here's what to do next

1. Pay and get receipts: security deposit, first rent cheque, agency fee. Costs explained.
2. Get your signed contract and any addendum.
3. Register Ejari. Ejari guide.
4. Activate DEWA once Ejari is issued. DEWA guide.
5. At the same time:
   • Chiller and AC
   • Gas
   • Internet
   • Move-in permit
6. Inspect the home before anything goes in. Inspection guide.
7. Collect keys, cards and parking access. Keys guide.
8. Clean, then move. Movers guide.

Full order with timings: the Dubai move-in checklist.

Yes. setl builds your personal move-in checklist for free and helps you through every step on WhatsApp. We can also register your Ejari for you, fully online.

Agents usually arrange the contract, collect payments and cheques, and often register Ejari. You usually handle DEWA, cooling, gas, internet, the move-in permit and your movers. Agree in writing who's doing Ejari so it isn't done twice or not at all.

It depends on the setup: the agent until handover, then the landlord or their property manager for repairs and payments, and building management for permits, access and facilities. Ask for all three contacts before handover.

• The tenancy contract signed by both parties, plus any addendum
• Receipts for every payment and cheque
• Title deed copy and the landlord's ID (or POA), often needed for Ejari
• The DEWA premise number, if you have it

Ask for it at signing or soon after. You need it for Ejari, so chase it if it doesn't arrive within a few days.

If it isn't the owner, ask for an official power of attorney that covers leasing (and collecting rent or deposits, if they're doing that), their ID, and the title deed. Check the owner on the POA matches the title deed. Ejari only accepts the owner or a legal representative with an official POA.

Fix it before signing if you can. If it's already signed, get a corrected version signed by both sides, and correct it before Ejari is registered. Never edit the signed document yourself. Correcting the contract doesn't update Ejari or utility accounts automatically.

Get them in writing in the contract addendum or a message from the landlord or agent, with a completion date. Verbal promises are hard to enforce.

Yes. Ejari, internet bookings and permit applications can usually start straight after signing. DEWA follows Ejari. Just remember billing starts when each service is activated.

Only if your landlord agrees in writing, and the building allows it. Early access can also affect insurance and responsibility for the home, so agree the terms.

Get a firm new date in writing, keep receipts for any extra costs, and see what to do if you can't move in.