DUBAI PROPERTY UPDATE
DubaiNow Ejari update: a short guide for tenants and landlords
The 2 November 2026 update connects tenancy registration, digital signatures and DEWA deposit payment. Here is what to prepare before you move.
Updated
What changed on 2 November 2026?
Dubai Land Department announced a connected DubaiNow journey for creating and registering a tenancy contract. Once the contract is approved, the Ejari certificate is issued immediately. Renewal and cancellation are also handled digitally with UAE PASS. The journey now includes DEWA security-deposit payment. Immediate certificate issuance should not be confused with a promise that every property’s electricity and water activate instantly.
Who can use it?
DLD lists this route for individual owners managing their own properties, with a valid Emirates ID required. Electronic signing uses UAE PASS. If ownership is through a company or an appointed manager, confirm the appropriate service route with DLD rather than assuming the same eligibility.
How do landlord and tenant complete it?
The owner opens Ejari in DubaiNow, signs in with UAE PASS, selects a new contract or renewal, enters the details, signs and sends it to the tenant. The tenant reviews and signs, pays the service fees and continues to DEWA payment where applicable. Review the unit, rent, dates and contact details before approving anything.
What does it cost?
The published DubaiNow Ejari total is AED 177.75: AED 100 registration, AED 55 service fee, AED 10 knowledge fee, AED 10 innovation fee and AED 2.75 VAT. DEWA payments are separate. Check the final payment screen for your transaction; do not treat the Ejari figure as your total moving budget.
What about cancellation?
The owner starts cancellation from the Property Wallet and sends the request to the tenant. The tenant reviews it and approves or declines. Keep the decision and your tenancy records together.
A useful move-in checklist
Agree key collection and access arrangements, save your signed contract and payment receipts, and check the utility account status before moving day. Photograph the condition of the home and record meter readings with the handover team. If you are weighing another rental against buying, compare the deposit, purchase expenses and ongoing ownership costs before choosing. Landlords preparing to let should also organise access, maintenance and a clear inventory.