Move-in permits in Dubai: what you need before moving day

1. Find out who manages your building and how they take applications. Who issues the permit.
2. Prepare your documents: Ejari, tenancy contract, Emirates ID, moving date and mover details. Full list.
3. Apply 3 to 5 working days before moving day.
4. Pay any fee or refundable deposit. How deposits work.
5. Book the service lift and a time slot. Moving hours.
6. Send the approval to your movers.

At least 3 to 5 working days before moving day. Some buildings approve in one working day, others take longer if documents need checking or the landlord has to approve. Weekends, public holidays and the end of the month are busiest, so apply earlier for those.

Usually 1 to 3 working days if your application is complete. Missing documents, a pending landlord NOC or an unpaid deposit are the usual delays. No confirmation and moving day is close? Call management and ask what's outstanding.

Sometimes management flags it, but the landlord's service charges aren't your debt. Ask management to explain any block in writing, then ask your landlord or agent to sort it out. Don't pay the owner's balance to get your permit.

In most towers, yes. You book a time slot once your permit is approved, and some buildings take a refundable damage deposit for it. Book early, get the slot in writing, and share it with your movers.

Often. Buildings may ask for the movers' trade licence, insurance and staff IDs so security can register the crew. Ask management what's needed and send it a few days ahead, or your movers may be turned away.

Use the loading bay or area management approves, never visitor parking unless they say so. Basement ramps and covered bays often have height limits. Send the truck's size to management, and if it won't fit, agree a smaller truck or another unloading spot in advance.

Often, yes. A big delivery on a different day may need its own approval and lift slot. Your move-in permit doesn't automatically cover it. Cleaners, installers and handymen usually need registering with security, and drilling, electrical or plumbing work can need a separate work permit.

Usually, but management has to confirm the new date. They may amend your permit or ask for a new application. Rebook the lift and loading bay too, and check whether your deposit or fee carries over.

Don't send the movers without approval. Security can refuse access, and movers may charge for waiting. Ask for the reason in writing, fix what's missing (often a document, a landlord approval or a slot outside permitted hours), and check whether you need a new application. If your landlord is the hold-up, bring them in straight away.

Register the people living with you in the Dubai REST app: sign in with UAE PASS as a tenant, choose your property, open Manage Occupants Data, and add your household. Ask building management separately about resident registration and access cards.