Dubai real estate tenants are strongly advised to use only a Registered Broker / Agent.

For new comers to Dubai, preparation is the key to a smooth adjustment and settling in Dubai. As most are starting new employment, in a new city, and in unfamiliar territory, it is a good idea to study the location area maps, have a good look at the differing prices, factor traffic and commuting to work, consider the surrounding amenities e.g. shopping, medical, gymnasium, hair saloon, and all the ‘small things’ you like, then look at the possible work route from the areas within your affordability then take a drive around the areas before contacting an Agent.

Location areas differ in prices, RERA shall be releasing the Dubai Rent Report scheduled in April 2008. After this date, do check on the latest rent prices across the Emirate.

When contacting an Agent, make sure you obtain from them a list of documents required, as a guide, we have suggested several below. Do be prepared to sign an Agent’s appointment agreement, if you don’t engage an Agent in this manner, or are not prepared to go to their office, then expect some delays. Agents now, are required to have an agreement with their client, you as the potential tenant are the client as it is the tenant who pays 5% agent’s fee. You only pay the fee when signing a lease contract for the property you are wanting to secure, the Agent shall approach the Landlord on your behalf. Do take references, and a brief history on your past accommodation.

A potential tenant cannot sign a lease contract if they do not have residency visa. If this is being processed, then obtain a letter from your company stating this fact.

Tenants in Dubai need to prepare themselves for some minor yet positive changes.

However, first, the tenant needs to be fully aware that the property is the asset of an Owner and the Tenant has no right to alter, damage, change the interior or exterior of the property without express written permission form the Owner. The days are gone when an irresponsible tenant leaves a property dirty, with their rubbish and unfit for occupation.

The property will need to be left in the same condition as is handed over to the tenant. This shall be monitored by a documented report called the ‘Entry Condition Report’ which shall serve as a protection to the tenant against the claim of a Landlord for damage or condition of a property which was present before the Tenant’s occupation. This must be signed by both parties. Who pays for exactly what i.e. repairs, maintenance etc shall be stipulated in the Tenancy Contract, and both parties are bound by this agreement.

Upon leaving the property, an ‘Exit Condition Report’ is completed by the Tenant and Landlord (or Landlord’s Agent) and the both reports must match. It is a good idea to take some photographs of any damage which your concerned about to ensure you are not blamed for damage, have the Landlord or Landlord’s Agent sign these immediately to protect yourself.

Providing a Tenant has paid the rent, is not breaking any Laws, and using the property for which it is an ‘approved use’ by municipality, then all will be fine. One should expect peace & quiet enjoyment in your home, and remember to obey the Owners’ Association rules if this is applicable to your rental property. e.g. conduct & behaviour, parking, visitors, use of common areas.

Documents Required for Tenants

• A copy of your passport
• A copy of your residency UAE visa (you cannot sign a lease without this)
• A statement of income from your employer (to show affordability and employment)
• A signed application for tenancy with all information provided
• A security deposit (usually around equalivent of 4 weeks rent) this is refundable when you exit the property providing it is returned to the Owner in the same condition when you entered the property. The security deposit should be lodged with RERA and the lease when signed needs to be registered with RERA.
• The rent sometimes is negotiable but usually 4 cheques – the 1st being 3 months rent cheque which is dated now, and the following postdated for 3 monthly intervals. The rent is paid in advance in Dubai.

All Dubai tenants should be familiar with Law No. (26). of 2007 which is the Law governing the relationship between the Landlord and the Tenant.

Tenants should also remember, the property is the asset of the Owner, it must be looked after. When you have registered the Tenancy contract with RERA, and if you have a problem and need intervention or a dispute arises, RERA can assist, but only if the lease is registered.

Once approved and you obtain the keys, the next step is to have the utility services connected. DEWA (Dubai Electricity & Water Authority) can be contacted on 04 304 1304 or take a browse on their website at www.dewa.gov.ae A security deposit is required, this is usually around 1,000 AED and refundable when the service is terminated and fully paid up. Do remember to take a copy of the lease, a copy of your passport and residency visa, and a no objection letter from the employer if the connection is to be in the company name. If the service is to be in the name of the Company (as showing on the lease) ask for a list of the required documents.

If an Agent cannot show you his / her Broker ID Card, (a business card is insufficient) then do not deal with them and beware, do not ever deal with a building watchman nor pay then a fee. They are not registered Agents. The usual excuse given if they cannot show you’re their photo ID card, is “it is being processed” all Dubai agents have now had almost 2 years to register and the deadline was 12 months ago.

In the coming months, the new Standard Forms for rentals and property management shall be available ONLY for registered brokers.