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Before signing a Dubai tenancy contract

Slow down at the payment stage. Verify the property, authority to rent it, total cost, contract details and handover condition.

Housing · Reviewed 19 September 2026

Check these five areas

  1. Property. Visit it, test essential services and record existing damage.
  2. Authority. Verify who owns or is authorised to lease the property and who will receive payment.
  3. Total cost. List rent, deposit, commission, service-related charges and any other agreed payment.
  4. Contract. Confirm names, dates, payment schedule, notice terms, maintenance responsibility and written promises.
  5. Handover. Record meter readings, keys, access cards, condition and signed receipts.

Ejari matters

Use the Dubai Land Department’s official Ejari page ↗ to review the current process and required documents.

If a major promise is not written in the contract or an addendum, do not assume it will be honoured later.

Keep evidence

Retain the signed contract, payment proof, receipts, property-condition photos, messages about agreed repairs, and official registration records.