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Setting up a business in Dubai can be an exciting opportunity, but it comes with its fair share of legal requirements. Whether you’re establishing a physical or virtual office, navigating the process of Ejari registration is a key step to ensure your business operates smoothly and remains compliant with local regulations.
At Emifast, we make the entire process of business setup effortless. From securing an Ejari-compliant office to obtaining your trade license and beyond, we handle all the complexities so you can focus on growing your business. But first, let’s explore what Ejari is, why it’s critical for your business, and how you can obtain it.
What is Ejari Dubai?
Ejari, which translates to “My Rent” in Arabic, is Dubai’s mandatory tenancy contract registration system. Introduced by the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA), Ejari aims to streamline and standardize rental agreements, bringing transparency to tenancy relationships and protecting the rights of both landlords and tenants. The Dubai Land Department’s official authority oversees the Ejari system, handling the registration and verification of tenancy contracts and providing online services for Ejari registration and contract downloads.
Ejari serves as the official, registered rental agreement between landlord and tenant—this is the official Ejari contract issued after successful registration—and applies to all tenancy contracts in Dubai. Under Law 26 of 2007 by RERA, Ejari registration is mandatory and compulsory for all rental properties in Dubai.
For businesses, an Ejari certificate is a legal requirement to issue a trade license (for mainland companies), process employee visas, and access government services. Without it, steps like setting up utilities for your office or renewing licenses become impossible.
Why Ejari is Important for Business Setup
Ejari registration isn’t just a legal formality; it’s an essential element in the business setup process in Dubai. Here’s why it matters:
Obtaining Trade Licenses: For most mainland businesses, you cannot secure a trade license without an Ejari certificate.
Corporate Bank Accounts: Financial institutions may request your Ejari certificate for verifying your registered business address.
Employee Visas: Many types of visas, including obtaining or renewing a residence visa, require an Ejari certificate as part of the application process.
Compliance for Virtual Offices: Even if your business operates remotely, certain office spaces offering virtual setups provide Ejari-compliant agreements, ensuring you remain on the right side of Dubai law.
Whether you’re running a tech startup or a corporate consultancy, ensuring your office (virtual or physical) meets Ejari requirements is non-negotiable.
Eligibility for Ejari Registration
To successfully complete Ejari registration in Dubai, both tenants and landlords must meet specific eligibility requirements. The Ejari system is designed to register private rental contracts, ensuring that all parties involved are protected under Dubai’s real estate regulations.
Key eligibility criteria include:
Valid Emirates ID: Both tenants and landlords must provide a current Emirates ID as part of the registration process.
Signed Tenancy Contract: The rental contract must be signed by all parties and comply with the government-approved format.
Proof of Ownership or Lease Agreement: Landlords must show proof of property ownership, while tenants need a valid lease agreement.
Property Location: Only properties situated in Dubai are eligible for Ejari registration.
Property management companies can also facilitate the Ejari registration process on behalf of tenants and landlords, making it easier to navigate the requirements.
How to Get Ejari in Dubai
The Ejari registration process is a key part of the regulated leasing process in Dubai. Here’s a simplified guide:
Step 1: Choose an Approved Office Location
Locate a physical or virtual office space that complies with Ejari requirements. This is crucial as non-compliant spaces will delay your registration.
Step 2: Sign the Tenancy Contract
Once you’ve finalised an office space, sign and obtain the original signed tenancy contract with the landlord or business center. This original signed tenancy contract is required for Ejari registration.
A successful Ejari registration starts with a properly prepared tenancy contract. In Dubai, a tenancy contract—also known as a lease agreement—is a legally binding document that clearly outlines the terms and conditions agreed upon by both the landlord and tenant. The contract should be drafted in accordance with the government-approved format to ensure it meets the standards required by the Ejari system.
Step 3: Submit Documents
Gather the following documents:
- Valid trade license copy
- Signed tenancy contract
- Title deed of the property
- Passport and Emirates ID copies of the tenant
Submit these documents and the completed registration form to an Ejari-authorised typing center or online through the Dubai REST app or Ejari portal. You must also pay the required fees as part of the submission process.
Step 4: Receive Your Ejari Certificate
Once approved, you’ll receive your Ejari certificate, which will include a unique Ejari number. The Ejari contract number is essential for verifying your tenancy and downloading the official certificate. This Ejari number is required for various legal and utility processes, so keep this document accessible.
Tip: Save time by engaging services like those offered by Emifast to handle Ejari registration on your behalf.
Ejari Registration Online and Offline
Thanks to Dubai’s commitment to digital services, tenants and landlords can complete online Ejari registration through various digital platforms, including the Dubai REST App and the official DLD website.
Online Registration:
- Log in to the Ejari portal or Dubai REST app
- Upload required documents and pay the applicable fee
- Once processed, download your Ejari certificate
Offline Registration:
Alternatively, visit an Ejari office or authorised typing center to submit documents manually. While the process takes slightly longer, service providers like Emifast simplify it by managing documentation and coordination for you.
Ejari Offices in Dubai
Ejari offices, also known as Trustee Centers, are conveniently located throughout Dubai to assist tenants and landlords with all aspects of Ejari registration. These centers offer services such as new registrations, renewals, and cancellations of Ejari certificates.
The main office of the Dubai Land Department, along with authorized typing centers and Real Estate Services Trustee centers, are among the key locations where Ejari services are provided. Ejari offices typically operate from Saturday to Thursday, but it’s advisable to check the specific business hours before planning your visit.
Ejari Dubai Cost and Timeline
How Much Does Ejari Cost?
The Ejari Dubai cost typically includes:
- A government fee of approximately AED 220
- Additional service charges if registered via a typing center or service provider
How Long Does It Take?
With all documents in order, Ejari registration usually takes 1–2 working days. Service providers like Emifast can expedite the process significantly.
Can Someone Do Ejari on Your Behalf?
Yes! Authorised consultants like Emifast handle the registration process from start to finish, ensuring a hassle-free experience. Alternatively, a property management company can also manage the Ejari registration process for you.
Ejari Renewal in Dubai
Ejari certificates aren’t valid indefinitely. You must renew Ejari every year if your tenancy contract is renewed annually. The renewal process involves updating your Ejari tenancy contract in the system to ensure continued legal validity. You can easily renew Ejari online through digital platforms, making the process convenient and efficient.
Upon successful renewal, a new registration number is issued, which validates your renewed Ejari and allows you to download the updated certificate. Failing to renew your Ejari can lead to:
- Delays in renewing business licenses
- Legal complications
- Disruption in office-related services
To avoid any issues, Emifast offers renewal reminders and concierge services to streamline the process for you.
Canceling Ejari Registration
If your tenancy contract has expired or been terminated, it’s important to cancel your Ejari registration to keep the Ejari system up to date. The cancellation process can be completed either online through the Dubai Rest app or by visiting an Ejari office in person.
To cancel Ejari registration, you’ll typically need to provide the original Ejari certificate, a valid reason for cancellation, and pay any applicable fees. Canceling Ejari registration is crucial when a tenant vacates a property or a landlord ends a tenancy contract, helping prevent future disputes.
Virtual Offices and Ejari in Dubai
Can You Get Ejari for a Virtual Office?
Yes, but not all virtual office spaces in Dubai offer Ejari-compliant agreements. Look for business centers that provide this option as part of their virtual office packages. Consulting a real estate agent can also help you find virtual offices that offer Ejari-compliant agreements.
If you’re unsure, partnering with trusted consultants like Emifast ensures you secure a fully compliant virtual office.
Common Questions About Ejari
Who Issues Ejari in Dubai? Ejari certificates are issued through the Dubai Land Department’s official system, including RERA and authorised typing centers.
Do I Need Ejari for a Free Zone? Most free zones don’t require Ejari as they cover registration directly under their jurisdiction. However, it’s always advisable to confirm with your specific free zone authority.
Is Ejari Required for a Freelance Permit? Freelancers operating in mainland Dubai may need Ejari for visa and license-related processes.
Can I Change My Ejari Location? Yes. Notify RERA and submit new tenancy details for updating your Ejari certificate.
Can Shared Office Spaces Provide Ejari? Only if the landlord or business center meets Ejari compliance standards. Verify this before signing a lease.
Why Partnering with Emifast Makes Ejari Easy
Navigating Ejari and related formalities can be overwhelming, but at Emifast, we make the setup process seamless. Here’s how we help:
Ejari Instantly: Emifast can help you obtain ejari instantly through efficient online and offline processes, ensuring you get your Ejari certificate without delay.
Ejari Compliance Made Easy: With partnerships across Dubai, we’ll find the ideal Ejari-compliant office space for your business.
End-to-End Setup Services: From trade licenses to visa processing and banking, we handle everything to ensure your business launches smoothly.
Hassle-Free Documentation: Our team takes care of form submissions, follow-ups, and renewals.
Start Your Business in Dubai with Ease
Securing an Ejari certificate is just one of many steps in setting up a business in Dubai, but it’s a critical one. By partnering with experts at Emifast, you can rest assured that every aspect of your business setup—from locating an Ejari-compliant office to obtaining licenses—is handled professionally and efficiently.
👉 Contact us today to start your Dubai business adventure with our comprehensive setup services.