How to Register an Ejari Contract Online in Dubai: Complete 2025 Guide

How to Register an Ejari Contract Online: A Practical Guide

If you’re renting property in Dubai, registering your Ejari online is not just a formality, it’s a legal requirement. The Ejari system, introduced by the Dubai Land Department (DLD), ensures that tenancy contracts are officially recorded, safeguarding the rights of both landlords and tenants. With the rollout of digital solutions like the Ejari REST app, the entire process can now be done from the comfort of your home, saving time and paperwork.

 

To register your Ejari online in Dubai, you’ll need basic documents like your Emirates ID, tenancy contract, title deed, and landlord’s ID. Once submitted via the REST app or approved typing centres, your documents are verified and a digital Ejari certificate is issued often within 1-2 business days. This certificate is crucial for getting DEWA connections, applying for residence visas, or filing rental disputes.

 

Whether you're a tenant moving into a new apartment or a landlord managing multiple units, online Ejari registration is fast, secure, and now more accessible than ever. This guide walks you through each step from document preparation to final certificate download ensuring your tenancy is legally compliant in 2025.

 

What Is Ejari and Why Is It Mandatory in Dubai?

If you’re renting a property in Dubai, you’ve probably come across the term Ejari, but what does it really mean? Simply put, Ejari meaning comes from the Arabic word for "my rent," and it refers to an official system set up by the Dubai Land Department (DLD). Its main purpose is to make sure every rental agreement is registered, regulated, and legally recognized.

 

The process of tenancy contract registration Dubai is done through the Ejari platform, either online via the Ejari REST app or through licensed typing centers. Once your lease is registered, you’ll receive an official Ejari certificate, which proves that your tenancy is legal and approved by authorities.

 

But why is Ejari mandatory? It’s more than just a formality. Without an Ejari certificate, you can’t connect to essential services like DEWA (electricity and water), apply for or renew your visa, or even file a rental dispute. For landlords, it ensures that the tenancy is legally enforceable and protects their rights as well.

 

In short, tenancy contract registration Dubai through Ejari isn’t just about ticking a box, it’s about making your rental relationship secure, transparent, and recognized by law. Whether you’re a tenant or a landlord, registering with Ejari is a crucial step in staying compliant and avoiding legal complications.

 

Who Is Responsible for Ejari Registration — Tenant or Landlord?

One of the most common doubts renters and landlords have is: Who’s actually responsible for registering Ejari? It’s a fair question and one that’s clearly outlined under Ejari rules Dubai.

 

Legally, the Dubai Land Department (DLD) places the responsibility on the landlord to register the tenancy contract with Ejari. This helps ensure the rental agreement is officially documented and protects the rights of both parties. However, in everyday practice, landlords often ask the tenant to handle the registration, especially when working through real estate agents or property management companies.

 

In many cases, tenancy contracts include a clause stating that the tenant will manage the Ejari registration as part of the move-in process. This is perfectly acceptable under Ejari rules Dubai, but it’s important to understand that the legal responsibility still rests with the landlord. If Ejari isn’t registered, it’s the landlord who is held accountable.

 

That’s why tenants should always double-check whether the Ejari has been registered, even if the landlord claims to have taken care of it. This avoids issues when setting up DEWA services or applying for visas.

 

In short, the question of landlord vs tenant registration often depends on what’s agreed in the contract, but legally, the landlord is the one responsible. Whether you’re a new tenant or a landlord managing your first rental, getting Ejari sorted early ensures a smooth and compliant rental experience.

 

How to Register Ejari Online via Dubai REST App or Portal

To register Ejari online Dubai, the most reliable method is through the Dubai REST app, managed by the Dubai Land Department (DLD). The app and online portal offer a secure, government-approved platform to complete the Ejari process REST app from the comfort of your home. Here's a step-by-step guide using official channels:

 

Step 1: Create a Dubai REST Account

• Download the Dubai REST app from the App Store or Google Play.

• Alternatively, visit the Dubai Land Department’s official website and navigate to the Ejari service section.

• Log in using your UAE Pass or register with your Emirates ID and mobile number.

 

Step 2: Upload Required Documents

Before proceeding, prepare and upload the following clear scanned documents:

 

• Tenancy contract Dubai signed by both parties

• Title deed of the rented property

• Tenant’s Emirates ID

• Landlord’s Emirates ID or passport

• Recent DEWA bill (optional but sometimes requested)

 

Upload these documents via the app under the “Ejari” service or on the portal.

 

Step 3: Pay the Ejari Registration Fee

After submitting your documents and confirming the details, the system will prompt you to proceed with payment. Ejari online registration through the Dubai REST app or DLD portal is AED 120 (AED 100 registration fee + AED 10 Knowledge fee + AED 10 Innovation fee, VAT excluded). Registration at trustee/typing centres typically amounts to AED 215–235, including service fees and VAT. Always confirm with the DLD or trustee before paying, as centre fees and VAT may vary.
 You can conveniently pay the fee using a credit or debit card through the secure online payment gateway.

 

Step 4: Download Your Official Ejari Certificate

Once your Ejari application is approved—usually within 1–2 business days—you will receive a notification in the Dubai REST app or via the portal. You can then log in and navigate to “My Services”, “Certificates”, or “My Contracts”, and click “Download Ejari Certificate”. At the same time, a digital copy of your certificate will also be sent to your registered email. This document serves as your official proof of legal tenancy registration and is required for DEWA utility setup, visa processing, and tenancy dispute resolution. You can download or print the certificate as needed.

 

Documents Required for Ejari Online Registration

Before starting the Ejari registration process, it’s essential to gather all the necessary paperwork. Here’s a quick Ejari document checklist to help you prepare for the online process:

 Signed tenancy contract – Ensure the tenancy contract is signed by both tenant and landlord before proceeding with the tenancy contract upload through the Dubai REST app or portal.

 

 Emirates ID – A clear scanned copy of the tenant’s Emirates ID is mandatory. If the landlord is a UAE resident, their Emirates ID may also be required. In case the landlord is overseas, a passport copy may be accepted.

 

Title deed – This document confirms ownership of the property and must be provided by the landlord or property management company.

 

DEWA bill (optional but recommended) – A recent DEWA (Dubai Electricity and Water Authority) bill can help confirm utility setup and the property's active occupancy status. While not always required, some applicants are asked to provide this.

 

Ensure all documents are clear, legible, and scanned in an accepted format (PDF or JPEG). Once your Ejari document checklist is complete, you can proceed to the tenancy contract upload section within the Dubai REST app or portal to begin your registration.

 

Ejari Fees and Payment Methods

Registering your Ejari contract online in Dubai involves clear and standardized Ejari registration fees, depending on the method you use. Whether you're applying via the Dubai REST payment gateway, the official DLD portal, or through a typing centre, knowing the cost breakdown helps avoid unexpected charges.

 

Ejari Registration Fees

Below is a comparison of Ejari registration costs via different platforms:

 

Registration Method	Base Fee (AED)	Knowledge + Innovation Fees (AED)	Service Provider Fee	Estimated Total (AED)
Dubai REST App / DLD Portal	100	20 (10 + 10)	N/A	120
Typing Centre	100	20 (10 + 10)	95 + VAT	Approx. 210

 

Typing centres typically charge a service partner fee of AED 95 + 5% VAT, bringing the total to around AED 210. These prices are fixed and regulated by the DLD across most approved centres.

 

Dubai REST Payment Options

When using the Dubai REST app or the DLD website, you can pay Ejari registration fees securely using the following methods:

 

• Credit or debit cards (Visa / MasterCard)

• e-Dirham card

• Noqodi payment gateway

 

All online payments go through DLD’s approved Noqodi system, ensuring secure and immediate processing.

 

Make sure to download and save the Ejari certificate and payment receipt after successful submission, these documents are required for services like DEWA activation, residence visa processing, or company licensing in Dubai.

 

Common Issues in Ejari Registration and How to Fix Them

Registering Ejari online in Dubai is usually seamless, but users often encounter setbacks that delay certificate issuance. Here are the most common Ejari registration errors which may lead to document rejection, and how to fix them quickly:

 

Mismatched Tenancy Contract Details

One of the most frequent causes of Ejari registration error is when the tenancy contract has discrepancies in names, Emirates IDs, or property details. Even a slight spelling variation between the contract and uploaded documents can lead to document rejection.

 

Fix: Double-check that tenant and landlord details on the tenancy contract match the title deed, Emirates ID, and passport exactly. Avoid abbreviations or unofficial nicknames.

 

Expired or Invalid Supporting Documents

Uploading expired Emirates IDs, outdated title deeds, or unsigned tenancy contracts will result in document rejection.

 

Fix: Ensure all uploads are current, legible, and properly signed by both parties. The tenancy contract must be valid for at least 30 days at the time of registration.

 

Wrong File Formats or Sizes

The Dubai REST system accepts only PDF or JPG formats. Submitting unsupported formats like Word files or exceeding file size limits can cause the submission to fail silently.

 

Fix: Compress large PDFs using free tools and avoid scans with low resolution. Stick to high-quality PDFs and clear JPGs under 2MB.

 

Missing Title Deed or Landlord’s Documents

Some users forget to include the property’s title deed or the landlord’s Emirates ID copy—both mandatory for approval.

 

Fix: Review the full Ejari document checklist before submission. Missing landlord details are among the most cited reasons for Ejari registration errors.

 

By addressing these issues before submitting, tenants can avoid unnecessary delays and receive their Ejari certificate without complications.

 

Benefits of Having a Valid Ejari Contract

Registering your tenancy with Ejari offers a wide range of legal, financial, and residency advantages for tenants in Dubai. Whether you're a new resident or renewing your lease, maintaining an active Ejari ensures compliance and unlocks access to essential services.

 

Legal Protection in Rental Disputes

A registered Ejari contract acts as legal proof of tenancy, which is mandatory for filing complaints with the Rent Dispute Settlement Centre. Without it, tenants cannot legally contest issues related to evictions, rent increases, or contract violations. This is particularly useful if you ever need to present tenancy evidence in court or seek mediation from Dubai’s rental authorities. It also serves as rental dispute proof, strengthening your position in legal processes.

 

DEWA Activation and Essential Services

One of the key Ejari benefits Dubai tenants enjoy is the ability to activate utilities. DEWA activation (Dubai Electricity and Water Authority) requires a valid Ejari number for initiating electricity and water services in your name. Additionally, your Ejari certificate is often requested for:

 

• Sponsoring family members for a residence visa

• Registering a vehicle

• Connecting internet or landline services

• Opening or renewing a trade license for home-based businesses

 

These use cases make Ejari a central document for residency and operational needs.

 

Residency and Financial Documentation

Your Ejari certificate is accepted as official proof of address across several government departments and private service providers. This is particularly important for opening bank accounts, processing visa paperwork, or registering a company in Dubai.

 

In summary, a valid Ejari registration doesn’t just meet legal requirements—it empowers tenants with security, accessibility, and control over their living arrangements.

 

FAQs

1.       Can I register Ejari online without the landlord’s approval?

No. A signed tenancy contract and required documents from the landlord or property manager are necessary for online registration.

 

2.       How long does it take to get an Ejari certificate online?

Typically 1–2 business days, provided all submitted documents are valid and complete.

 

3.       What happens if my Ejari registration is delayed?

It may delay DEWA activation, visa applications, and prevent you from filing rental disputes, as all these processes require a valid Ejari certificate.

 

4.       Is Ejari registration mandatory for short-term leases in Dubai?

Short-term leases designated as holiday homes and registered with DTCM do not need Ejari. Standard residential leases of 6 months or more must be registered with Ejari under RERA rules.

 

5.       Can a company tenancy contract be registered via Ejari online?

Yes. Commercial and company tenancy contracts can be registered via the Dubai REST app or DLD portal using a signed tenancy contract and valid documentation.

 

6.       How do I renew my Ejari through the Dubai REST App?

Log in to the Dubai REST app, upload the renewed tenancy contract, confirm the details, pay the renewal fee, and download the updated Ejari certificate.

 

7.       Can I transfer an Ejari registration to a new tenant during the contract period?
 No. Ejari certificates are non-transferable. A new Ejari must be registered when a new tenant takes over.

 

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