Dubai has tightened its rental housing rules, requiring tenants to update details of every person living in their apartment or villa in Ejari contracts. The move, initiated by the Dubai Land Department (DLD), aims to curb unlicensed shared accommodations and ensure transparency in the emirate’s rental market.
Under the new rule, tenants must disclose the names and details of all co-residents—family members, domestic workers, or unrelated individuals—who live in the property for a month or more. The updated information must be submitted through the Dubai REST app, using secure authentication via UAE Pass.
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How to Register Co-Residents on Ejari
Dubai has simplified the process by enabling updates through the Dubai REST app. Tenants can follow these steps:
1. Download and Register: Install the Dubai REST app and create an account.
2. Log in with UAE PASS: Securely authenticate your digital identity.
3. Select Property: Select your rental unit from the dashboard.
4. Manage Co-Residents: Click “Manage Co-Residents” to update the record.
5. Add Details: Enter Emirates ID and date of birth, and verify the information.
6. Edit or Delete Entries: Easily update or delete incorrect details.
This process ensures that every resident has a record in the Ejari system, strengthening transparency in the rental market.
Why Ejari is important
Ejari—“my rent” in Arabic—was introduced by RERA in 2007 to bring transparency to Dubai’s rental market. It is more than just a rental record:
- It provides legal protection to both landlords and tenants.
- It is mandatory to open DEWA utility accounts.
- It is required for residency visa applications involving rental housing.
- It ensures contracts are legally enforceable in disputes.
By mandating co-living disclosures, authorities aim to strengthen accountability and eliminate unlicensed arrangements that often circumvent tenancy laws.
What it means for tenants and landlords
For tenants, proper Ejari registration ensures access to utility services, visa renewals, and legal protection. For landlords, it ensures compliance with regulations and reduces the risk of penalties. The crackdown on unauthorized shared accommodation is part of Dubai’s wider effort to regulate its fast-growing rental sector and maintain housing standards.
Digital Transformation: Ejari via WhatsApp
In line with Dubai’s smart governance drive, Ejari registrations and updates can now be done via WhatsApp through the AQARI platform. This new service allows tenants to easily manage registrations, ownership transfers, and property valuations—making compliance even simpler.
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In short, all tenants will now have to state who they live with in their Ejari contracts. This not only enforces housing laws but also ensures smooth access to essential services in Dubai’s rental market.