A registered tenancy contract protects both landlord and tenant. It is needed to connect utilities, sponsor residence visas and, if it ever comes to it, resolve a dispute. But the system differs from emirate to emirate. Here is an overview for owners.
| Emirate | How tenancies are registered |
|---|---|
| Dubai | Ejari, administered under the Dubai Land Department and RERA |
| Abu Dhabi | Tawtheeq, accessed through the DARI platform |
| Sharjah | Attestation through Sharjah Municipality |
| Ajman | Registration with the Ajman Municipality and Planning Department |
| Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, Umm Al Quwain | Registration with the relevant local municipality |
Dubai: Ejari and the rental index
In Dubai every tenancy must be registered on Ejari. Rent increases at renewal are linked to the RERA rental index, which compares a unit's current rent with the average for similar properties in the area. To change rent or terms at renewal, the landlord must notify the tenant at least 90 days before the contract expires.
Abu Dhabi: Tawtheeq
Abu Dhabi's Tawtheeq system serves the same purpose as Ejari. Registration is now handled through DARI, the emirate's digital real-estate platform.
Sharjah and the northern emirates
In Sharjah, contracts are attested by the municipality and disputes are heard by the emirate's rental dispute settlement centres. Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah and Umm Al Quwain each register leases through their own municipal systems.
What a property manager should do
- Register every new contract promptly and keep a copy on file.
- Track expiry dates and send renewal notices well ahead of the legal deadline.
- Check any increase against the rules that apply in that emirate.
- Keep payment, deposit and condition records ready in case of a dispute.
Regulations change, so always confirm current requirements with the relevant authority. Aspen Prime Properties manages registration and renewals for owners in Dubai, Sharjah and Ajman. Get in touch to find out more.
