FAQs
1. Can foreigners rent apartments in Dubai?
Yes, foreigners can rent apartments in Dubai with a valid passport and residence visa. Most landlords require an Emirates ID for long-term leases, while short-term rentals may be booked with just a passport. Expats make up a large share of Dubai’s rental market, especially in communities like Downtown, Marina, JVC, and Palm Jumeirah.
2. What is the average rent for apartments in Dubai?
- Studios: AED 35,000–50,000 per year
- 1-Bedroom: AED 55,000–90,000 per year
- 2-Bedroom: AED 80,000–150,000 per year
- Luxury apartments in Downtown & Marina: AED 200,000+
Affordability depends on community, property type, and proximity to business hubs.
3. What are the best areas to rent apartments in Dubai?
- Downtown Dubai – near Burj Khalifa
- Dubai Marina – waterfront lifestyle
- Palm Jumeirah – luxury beachfront living
- JVC (Jumeirah Village Circle) – affordable family rentals
- Business Bay – central location near DIFC
Each community offers unique rental benefits from lifestyle perks to investment-friendly prices.
4. How much deposit is required to rent a flat in Dubai?
- Security deposit: 5% (unfurnished) or 10% (furnished)
- Refundable at lease end, subject to property condition
- Agency fee: usually 5% of annual rent
- Ejari registration charges
5. What documents are needed to rent an apartment in Dubai?
- Passport copy
- Residence visa
- Emirates ID
- Proof of income (salary certificate or employment contract)
- Bank cheques for rental payments
For corporate leases, trade licenses and company documents may also be required.
6. Is it cheaper to rent in Dubai or buy a property?
Renting: Lower upfront costs, flexibility, ideal for short stays or first-time residents.
Buying: Long-term investment, asset ownership, Golden Visa eligibility for qualifying purchases.
If you plan to stay short-term, renting is more cost-effective. For long-term residency and investment, buying property may be better.
7. How is rent paid in Dubai?
- 1 cheque: annual upfront payment (sometimes discounted rent)
- 2–4 cheques: quarterly or bi-annual
- 6–12 cheques: monthly installments (common in mid-market properties)
Agreements must be registered with Ejari for legal validity.
8. Can I rent an apartment in Dubai without a job?
Yes, but it is more challenging. Landlords usually require proof of income to ensure affordability. Tenants without a UAE job may rent if they pay annual rent upfront, provide a local sponsor, or rent short-term serviced apartments, which are more flexible.
9. Are short-term rentals legal in Dubai?
Yes, short-term rentals are legal if registered with the Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM). Platforms like Airbnb, booking portals, and licensed serviced apartments are popular. Tenants must ensure the property is licensed to avoid fines.
10. What is Ejari and why is it important for renting in Dubai?
Ejari is Dubai’s official rental contract registration system under the Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA). Every lease must be registered through Ejari to be legally valid. It protects both landlords and tenants by documenting terms, payments, and dispute resolution rights.