Cost to Rent
Estimate the upfront cash you need to move into a Dubai rental.
📦 The Tenancy
AED
Fewer cheques means a bigger first payment but often a lower rent.
5%
AED
Around AED 2,000 for an apartment, 4,000 for a villa.
🧾 Cash to Move In
First rent cheque0 AED
Security deposit (5%)0 AED
Agency commission0 AED
Ejari registration220 AED
DEWA deposit2,000 AED
Total Upfront Cash
2,220AED
Figures are typical Dubai market conventions. Deposits are refundable at the end of the tenancy subject to condition. Furnished units often carry a 10% deposit. Estimates for information only.
Related Guides
Frequently Asked Questions
Beyond the first rent payment, budget for a 5% security deposit on the annual rent, agency commission of up to 5%, Ejari registration of around AED 220, and a DEWA connection deposit of roughly AED 2,000 for an apartment or 4,000 for a villa. On an AED 90,000 rental paid in four cheques, that is typically around AED 30,000 to hand over on day one.
Landlords usually take a refundable security deposit of 5% of the annual rent for an unfurnished property, or 10% for a furnished one. It is returned at the end of the tenancy provided the property is handed back in good condition, less any agreed deductions for damage.
Rent is paid by a set number of post-dated cheques covering the year, commonly 1, 2, 4 or 6. Fewer cheques mean a larger first payment but landlords often reward it with a lower rent, while more cheques ease cash flow at a slightly higher price. This calculator sizes your first cheque based on the number you choose.
Ejari is the mandatory registration of your tenancy contract with Dubai's Real Estate Regulatory Agency, required to set up DEWA, obtain visas and resolve disputes. Registration costs around AED 220 through the Dubai REST app or a typing centre, and is usually the tenant's responsibility.