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Guide to Renting an Apartment in Dubai for Expats

Dubai Marina - one of Dubai's most popular communities for expats looking to rent an apartment

Dubai’s real estate sector has been consistently rising following the COVID-19 pandemic. Popular developers are building top-notch projects as the population in Dubai continues to increase.

Rental transactions in Dubai are controlled by the Real Estate Regulatory Authority or RERA. The price index for property rentals in Dubai is transparent, so it is relatively easy to know if you are renting a property at a good price. You will also have ample time to search for the perfect property since the number of properties for rent in Dubai always tops the demand. There are also plenty of cheap apartments for rent in Dubai if you are looking for something within a certain budget. A furnished apartment is recommended if you have just moved and if you don’t have any furniture and appliances yet.

Below is a step-by-step guide on renting apartments in Dubai:

Explore property listings online using an online property portal

You can filter your search on the Engel & Völkers portal for properties with the lowest or highest price, you can also search in a specific area or community and you can also filter how many bedrooms are you looking for.

You can check important information regarding the property such as the price, the specifications, the number of bedrooms, the view, the level, and more under each property listing.

Schedule a viewing with the real estate agent

Confirm with the agent the exact location of the property and the scheduled viewing time, allowing you to plan your journey accordingly. Remember to prioritise accessibility to public transportation and main roads when considering properties in Dubai.

Pay close attention to details during the viewing, noting important information such as chiller availability, parking arrangements, and security measures. Verify that the location matches your expectations.

Inquire about the building facilities to ensure they meet your needs. Determine whether the AC system is centralised or if the apartment is chiller-free, which can help you avoid additional AC costs in Dubai's climate.

Take the opportunity to interact with neighbours, if possible, to gather insights into the advantages and drawbacks of living in the neighbourhood. Additionally, assess the proximity of the apartment to supermarkets, schools, restaurants, and shopping malls to gauge convenience.

Finalize the rental agreement

Once you've selected the property you wish to rent, you can initiate the reservation process. Typically, you'll be required to pay a refundable security deposit, typically amounting to 5% of the rental price.

Inquire with the agent about the number of post-dated cheques needed to cover the annual rent. Ensure meticulous recording of all payments made and retain receipts for your records.

Prior to proceeding, ensure you have all necessary documents prepared. A residence visa is essential for establishing DEWA (Dubai Electricity and Water Authority) and internet services. Be proactive in gathering and organising these documents to facilitate a smooth rental process.

Sign the tenancy agreement

Once all required documents have been received and verified, the real estate agent will send you the tenancy agreement for your perusal and signature. This comprehensive document will encompass all details regarding the rental, inclusive of terms and conditions.

Upon thorough review, proceed to sign the agreement, ensuring you agree to the stated terms. Simultaneously, provide the rental cheques and applicable commission to the agent. Request an invoice and receipt for your records, maintaining transparency throughout the transaction process.

The real estate agent will facilitate the landlord's signature on the tenancy agreement and collect the issued cheques. Upon completion, you should receive a copy of the duly signed agreement for your reference and records. This ensures mutual understanding and acknowledgment of the agreed-upon terms between all parties involved.

Prepare to move in

Now that you've secured the rental property, the subsequent steps involve DEWA connection and Ejari registration. These processes are straightforward and can typically be completed within 24 hours with the assistance of your agent.

Renting a property in Dubai can range from convenient to somewhat challenging, depending on various factors. Finding the ideal property tailored to your needs requires careful consideration and guidance. Staying on the right path is paramount for a successful rental journey, and enlisting the expertise of a reputable real estate agent can greatly facilitate this process.

Engel & Völkers stands as one of the premier real estate brokerages, boasting a global network of over 800 locations. Visit our website to explore the finest rental properties or reach out to us at 800 3555 for personalized assistance. Let Engel & Völkers guide you towards your ideal rental property, ensuring a seamless and rewarding experience every step of the way.