Build my checklist
← Back to the Paying your rent guide

GUIDE

What is Rent Now, Pay Later in Dubai?

By JJay Ellis ·Checked against official sources· Updated October 2026Follow @getsetl.ae

What's been announced

  • A local bank pays the landlord the annual rent upfront.
  • You repay the bank monthly, over up to 12 months.
  • Instalments have been reported as zero interest; processing or admin fees haven't been confirmed.
  • It was reported to launch in September 2026. As of October 2026 we haven't seen an official launch or application process.

What isn't confirmed yet

  • Who is eligible (residency, salary, credit score)
  • Fees and penalties for missed payments
  • Whether it covers your security deposit or only rent
  • Whether you can join mid-lease

What you can use today

  • DLD Flexi Rent: monthly or quarterly payments with participating landlords. How it works
  • Private monthly rent services, such as Keyper and Rently, which pay your landlord and charge a fee. Compare options
  • Negotiating your cheques directly with your landlord.

Watch out for

Some companies advertise their own "rent now, pay later" products. They are private services, not the DLD scheme. Check who the provider is, read the full agreement and confirm the total you'll repay.

Common questions

Is Rent Now, Pay Later interest-free?

It has been reported as zero interest, but final fees haven't been published. Check the total repayment before signing anything.

Is it the same as Flexi Rent?

No. Flexi Rent is a separate DLD initiative where participating landlords offer flexible payment schedules themselves.

Sources

More Paying your rent guides

Related guides

Setl is Dubai's free move-in assistant: one checklist for Ejari, DEWA, AC, gas, internet and permits, in the right order for your building.