Decide on budget and type of apartment

This will also help you zero in on the type of property that you can possibly rent. Also, decide whether you want a furnished home or unfurnished one. Obviously, a furnished home comes at a higher rent, which makes sense for those who don’t expect to live here for too long.

Choose a location

Almost every part of the UAE is an experience worth living. However, each area offers a unique lifestyle. Ask yourself – do you want a sea view, a beachfront property, or one facing a park or overlooking the famous Sheikh Zayed Road.

Find an apartment

Agents can help you filter the verified listings based on your needs. Listings usually provide details such as location and proximity, number of rooms, size in sq. ft., amenities, annual rent, furnished or unfurnished, viewing dates, desired moving-in date.

View the apartment

The next step is to arrange a viewing. Make sure that your agent is present at the time of the viewing so that you can ask any questions you may have. Ask about the building security, the apartment’s air-conditioning, building facilities etc.

Negotiate the rent

Always negotiate the rent. While it doesn’t always work, one common way to bargain is with the number of cheques. If you are willing to pay with a fewer number of cheques, the landlord may decrease the rent.

Pay the security deposit and reserve your property

To secure the property, you will have to pay a refundable 5% security deposit. You’ll make the cheques in the landlord’s name, but the agent will hold them until the deal is finalized. Don’t forget to take a receipt.

Required documents:
• Your Passport
• Residence visa copy (or an original letter from your sponsor/company stating that your visa is under process)

Sign the contract

So, it’s time to sign on the dotted line and make it your home. Your agent will send you the tenancy contract. Read it thoroughly and ask for any changes you may need. Sign the contract only when you’re completely satisfied that the terms are in line with the UAE’s rules & regulations.

Get a DEWA connection

Congratulations, you have a home! Now at this stage, you need to get a Dubai Electricity and Water Authority connection. Every emirate has its own body (eg. Sharjah has SEWA). You can easily set up a DEWA account online with your Ejari, Emirates ID, passport etc.

Ejari Registration

Ejari is a document that deems your tenancy contract legal in the eyes of the government. You’ll need to submit your DEWA connection receipt and pay an annual fee. It’s common practice for agents to handle this for you at a nominal fee.