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How to rent a property in Dubai

The time has come to rent your new home.
First on the list: read this quick guide on what to expect during the leasing process.

Your Dubai Property Tenant’s Guide by Riva Maison

Dubai offers a diverse array of rental options to suit every lifestyle, from beachfront residences and high-rise towers to gated villa communities. Before you begin your search for a new home, it’s important to understand a few key aspects of renting in this vibrant city. Here’s a brief overview of what to expect on your rental journey.

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Budgeting for Your Rental

Before you start looking, determine how much you can afford to spend on rent. Keep in mind that you’ll need to provide a security deposit, which is typically 5% of your annual rent for unfurnished properties or 10% for furnished ones, although this can vary by agency. This deposit is refundable at the end of your tenancy. Additionally, if you choose to work with a rental agency, expect to pay an agency fee, generally about 5% of the annual rental value.

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Choosing When, Where, and What to Rent

If you’re ready to find your new home, consider which area and type of property you’re interested in. Dubai boasts over 200 residential communities, and Riva Maison’s area guides can help provide a comprehensive overview. Once you’ve narrowed down potential locations, our Property Consultants who specialize in those areas can assist you in exploring available options and determining if the area meets your needs.

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Understanding Regulations and Additional Costs

In Dubai, tenants are typically responsible for paying the agency fee, which can be 5% of the annual rent or a fixed amount, depending on the agency. Remember to include this in your budget planning. You will also need to provide a security deposit, generally 5% of the annual rent for unfurnished homes and 10% for furnished ones, although some agencies may have a fixed rate. This deposit is refundable at the conclusion of your tenancy.

Your Rental Journey with Riva Maison

The first crucial step in renting a property in Dubai is to set your budget. Use this as a foundation for your property search. Keep in mind the associated rental costs: you’ll need 5% of the total rental value for a deposit and another 5% for agency fees, with a minimum fee of AED 5000.

Consider what you need from your rental home. Are you looking for an apartment or a villa? Which area do you prefer? How many bedrooms do you need, and how close do you want to be to schools or your workplace? Remember, finding a property that ticks every box is rare, so prioritize your needs to guide your search within your criteria.

Finding a reliable real estate broker who you can trust and build a rapport with is essential. It’s important to feel comfortable having open and honest conversations with your broker. Riva Maison brokers are dedicated to understanding your preferences and matching you with the ideal community and property, ensuring a smooth and organized moving process.

Viewing properties can be exciting yet overwhelming. Write down any questions you have beforehand to ensure you cover all bases during viewings. If you have reservations about a property, discuss these with your broker who might offer solutions based on their extensive experience.

Once you’ve chosen a property, decide on your offer. Your Riva Maison broker will handle the negotiations with the landlord, keeping you informed at every step, ensuring a smooth negotiation process.

Your agent will guide you through the necessary documentation. Ensure you have your Emirates ID, passport, and visa ready. Review the contract carefully and don’t hesitate to ask your broker any questions before signing.

It’s time to register your tenancy contract through Ejari, which translates to “your rent” in Arabic. Your broker will assist you with the necessary paperwork. Riva Maison also offers a home move service to help with obtaining the required permits for moving.

Register with the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) and set up your internet connection before you move in. Our home move team is available to facilitate these connections for a small fee.

Congratulations on your new rental in Dubai! Be mindful of the move-in policies set by your community or building security. Once settled, relax and enjoy your new home!

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