Move-in problems in Dubai: what to do when things go wrong

Often, yes. A trusted person can deal with your landlord and building, collect keys and supervise deliveries, if those parties accept it. For official steps you'll usually need a power of attorney: for example, a representative with an official POA can register your Ejari at a trustee centre. Emirates ID and visa steps may still need you in person for biometrics.

Usually. Email your landlord and building management with your representative's full name and ID copy, and ask whether they need a signed authorisation letter or a specific form. Make sure they have every appointment time and access permission, and ask them to send photos and receipts afterwards.

Then the company is the tenant. HR or admin usually handles Ejari, rent and the landlord. Ask them who's arranging your move-in, who can collect keys, who pays the deposit and bills, and whether you need to be registered as an occupant.

Fix it before registering anything. If you've renewed your passport, bring the old and new ones. If a name is misspelled, ask whoever issued the wrong document to correct it, rather than writing it differently to match. For Emirates ID or visa mismatches, contact ICP.

The previous tenant has to close their DEWA account and Ejari. An old Ejari that's still active can stop yours being registered at all. Ask your landlord to confirm both are closed. Once your Ejari is in, DEWA creates your account. Power that's already on doesn't mean the account is yours.

They're separate accounts. Register with your building's cooling provider and gas supplier. Don't try to switch gas on yourself.

Usually a missing move-in permit, NOC or lift booking. Call building management straight away and ask exactly what's missing, involve your landlord if owner approval is needed, and get your movers to confirm any waiting charges in writing. Next time, get written approval a few days before. Move-in permits.

Ask management which approvals are missing and who must submit them, get the new date in writing from your landlord, and reschedule movers and deliveries early. Keep receipts for extra costs (temporary accommodation, storage, rebooking). If the landlord's failure caused it, you may have a claim, so get advice before withholding rent.

• Waiting for your Emirates ID or visa
• Landlord not responding
• Previous tenant hasn't moved out
• Who can help resolve a dispute