September 15, 2025
Ejari is a system that formalises and registers tenancy contracts with the Dubai Land Department (DLD), and it is a legal prerequisite for all long-term rentals in Dubai. While the legal responsibility for the Ejari registration falls upon the landlord, it is a standard practice, often stipulated within the tenancy contract, for the tenant to manage this process and bear the cost.
This occurs because tenants require the Ejari certificate to activate essential utilities like DEWA and to fulfil procedures with banks for security deposit checks or visa processing.
This raises a common question among tenants: How can I register Ejari online in 2025?
Previously, this meant a visit to an authorised trustee centre for Ejari registration. However, digital channels now provide efficient alternatives. This guide details the online methods available to tenants of freehold properties. Freehold properties are those where the owner owns both the building unit, for example an apartment, and the land it stands on, managed by individual landlords).
Tenants in Dubai have several online platforms to register Ejari, each with specific steps and requirements. Some options require landlord involvement for digital approvals, while alternatives like Habi remove this step if a signed tenancy contract is provided.
The licensed platform offers an online Ejari registration service. You upload the required documents, including the fully signed tenancy contract. Habi's system processes the application without contacting your landlord for further digital approval, as the signed contract is sufficient authorisation.
In case there's not an active tenancy contract:
In case of an already signed tenancy contract:
Dubai REST is the official government app that provides access to real estate services in Dubai, allowing users to manage property transactions, verify ownership and more. The tenant initiates the application, and the landlord receives a notification to log in via UAE Pass to review and digitally approve the submission. This method typically incurs the base government fee of 177.50 AED.
DubaiNow is a services platform provided by the Dubai Government. It offers residents and visitors access to over 120 services from more than 30 government and private entities, all in one app. Operating under the 'Housing' section, the process mirrors that of the Dubai REST app. The tenant provides the necessary information, and the transaction is pending until the landlord provides digital consent through the app using their UAE Pass. A base government fee of 120 AEDapplies.
The process on the DLD's official portal is similar to the app-based methods. The application is submitted online, with a base government fee of 120 AED, but it remains pending until the landlord authorises it through their own registered account.
Aqari is a WhatsApp channel managed by the DLD to provide property-related services. You can initiate an Ejari registration by sending a message saying "Ejari" to the AQARI WhatsApp number. A chatbot guides you through the document submission process. The application includes a base government fee of 120 AED.
Documents Required for Ejari Registration
To register Ejari online, using any method, tenants must prepare the following documents in digital format for submission:
Ensure all documents are clear and legible to avoid delays and rejections during registration.
Fees for Ejari registration include a mandatory base fee and additional service charges, depending on the platform or service provider used.
When registering your Ejari through the Dubai REST app/DubaiNow app/DLD Ejari website/AQARI WhatsApp, here's what you can expect in terms of fees:
Be sure to check the platform and any additional charges to know the final amount.
Habi's total cost for Ejari registration is 299 AED. There are no hidden charges.
Registering Ejari online is largely straightforward, but tenants often face challenges. Solutions to common issues include:
Always confirm tenancy contract terms to understand your responsibilities regarding Ejari registration. Choose an online method that suits you, based on whether landlord involvement is manageable or alternatives like Habi are preferred.
With Habi platform, these issues are mitigated. Our platform is directly connected to DLD, avoiding personal and property typos. And our team is reviewing all documents to ensure documents are fully legible and correct. 100% of our Ejari registrations are approved by the government.
The legal responsibility falls upon the landlord. However, it is standard practice for the tenant to manage the process, as it's often stipulated in the tenancy contract and tenants need the certificate for their own purposes.
The Dubai REST app, DubaiNow app, and the DLD Ejari website all require the landlord to log in with their UAE Pass to digitally approve the application after you submit it.
Ensure all your documents are clear, legible, and that all details (names, ID numbers) match across all forms of identification and the tenancy contract.
You upload your signed tenancy contract and the required documents. Habi processes the application without contacting your landlord for further digital approval. You pay a fee of D 299 and receive your Ejari certificate within one business day.
Yes. If you already have a signed tenancy contract, you can simply upload the required documents on Habi platform to request Ejari registration.
Common reasons include incorrect details on documents (names or ID numbers not matching), blurred copies, missing signatures, or an unclear title deed. The DLD will usually provide a reason for rejection.
