GUIDE
What is Ejari in Dubai?
What Ejari means
Ejari means "my rent" in Arabic. It's the Dubai Land Department's (DLD) system for registering tenancy contracts. Registration is mandatory for tenancies in Dubai.
When your contract is registered, you receive an Ejari certificate. It records the tenant, landlord, property, annual rent and contract dates.
Ejari vs your tenancy contract
They are two different documents:
| Tenancy contract | Ejari certificate | |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | The agreement between you and your landlord | Proof that agreement is officially registered |
| Who creates it | You, your landlord or agent | Issued through the DLD's Ejari system |
| When you get it | When you sign | After registration is approved |
Signing the contract does not mean your Ejari is done.
Why it matters
- DEWA: your electricity and water account is created from your Ejari.
- Move-in permits: many buildings ask for it before letting you move in.
- Disputes: it's your official record of the tenancy.
- Other services: internet providers, employers and family visa applications often ask for it.
How to get one
You can register in the Dubai REST app, at a trustee (typing) centre, through your agent, or fully online with setl. See every way to register Ejari.
Common questions
Is Ejari mandatory in Dubai?
Yes. Tenancy contracts in Dubai must be registered through Ejari.
Is my tenancy contract the same as Ejari?
No. The contract is your agreement with the landlord. The Ejari certificate confirms it's been officially registered.
Sources
More Ejari guides
Related guides
Next step
DEWA move-in: how to get electricity and water connected