GUIDE
What is the total cost of moving into an apartment in Dubai?
Worked example: AED 100,000 a year, unfurnished apartment
| Cost | Amount | Comes back? |
|---|---|---|
| Security deposit (5%) | AED 5,000 | Yes, at move-out |
| Agency commission (5% + VAT) | AED 5,250 | No |
| Ejari | AED 177.75 to 299 | No |
| DEWA deposit | AED 2,000 | Yes |
| DEWA activation | About AED 155 | No |
| Subtotal | About AED 12,600 to 12,700 |
Then add, depending on your building:
- Chiller: deposit and activation fee. With Emicool, the deposit equals 8 months of your capacity charge, plus a AED 200 activation fee.
- Gas: deposit and activation fee (varies by supplier).
- Internet: setup fee, if any.
- Move-in permit: fee or refundable deposit (varies by building).
- Movers, cleaning and furniture.
These figures are a guide. Your contract and providers set the exact amounts.
Refundable deposits
- Rent security deposit (from your landlord)
- DEWA deposit
- Chiller and gas deposits
- Moving deposit (from the building)
You get these back when you leave, minus any valid deductions and unpaid bills.
Non-refundable fees
- Agency commission
- Ejari registration
- DEWA, chiller and gas activation fees
- Internet installation
- Movers and cleaning
Your first rent payment
Many landlords want the first cheque (or the full year, if paying in one cheque) at signing, so include that in your upfront cash plan too.
Avoid surprises
Ask for an itemised list of every payment before you sign, separate deposits from fees, and keep a receipt for each one.
Common questions
How much money do I need to move into a Dubai apartment?
Your first rent payment plus roughly 12 to 15% of annual rent for deposits and fees, and utility deposits (from AED 2,000) and moving costs on top.
Can I avoid the agency fee?
Only by renting directly from the landlord or developer. If you used an agent, it's usually 5% plus VAT.