How to register Ejari: Step-by-step guide

Registering Ejari is simpler than many tenants expect. There are three methods available, the fastest of which takes under 10 minutes via the Dubai REST app. Here is everything you need to know.

Documents required for Ejari registration

Regardless of which method you use, you will need to gather the following documents before starting:

• Signed tenancy contract (original, fully executed by both parties)
• Tenant's Emirates ID (front and back)
• Tenant's passport (if the tenant is a non-UAE national)
• Landlord's Emirates ID or passport copy
• Title deed of the property (landlord provides this)
• DEWA premises number (found on any previous DEWA bill or on the DEWA website using the property address)

The 3 methods to register Ejari

Method 1: Dubai REST App (recommended)

The Dubai REST (Real Estate Self-Transaction) app is the fastest and most convenient method. It is available on iOS and Android and allows you to register Ejari from your phone, at any time, with same-day certificate issuance.

1. 1

   Download the Dubai REST app from the App Store or Google Play.

2. 2

   Log in using UAE Pass (the government digital identity app). If you do not have UAE Pass, you will need to set it up first — it requires your Emirates ID.

3. 3

   On the home screen, tap 'Services' then select 'Ejari' under the Real Estate section.

4. 4

   Tap 'Register Ejari Contract' and select 'New Registration'.

5. 5

   Enter the property's DEWA premises number when prompted. The app will auto-fill some property details.

6. 6

   Upload your signed tenancy contract as a clear PDF or image.

7. 7

   Upload the tenant's Emirates ID (front and back).

8. 8

   Upload the landlord's Emirates ID or passport, plus the title deed.

9. 9

   Review all pre-filled details carefully and confirm they match your contract.

10. 10

    Proceed to payment: AED 220 + 5% VAT = AED 231 total. Payment is by credit/debit card.

11. 11

    Submit. Your Ejari certificate is typically issued within minutes to a few hours and will appear in the app under 'My Contracts'.

Method 2: DLD Customer Happiness Centres

You can visit a DLD Customer Happiness Centre in person with your documents. The main centres are located in Deira and Bur Dubai. Processing time is typically 1–3 business days, and you will receive the certificate by email. This method is useful if you have any complications with your documentation or need assistance from staff.

Method 3: Ejari typing centres

Licensed Ejari typing centres are private service centres authorised by the DLD to process Ejari registrations on your behalf. They charge a service fee on top of the official AED 220 registration fee — typically AED 50–200 extra. Processing is usually same day to 24 hours. This option suits those who are not comfortable using the app or need help with document preparation.

Processing time summary

• Dubai REST app: Certificate issued same day, usually within hours
• DLD Customer Happiness Centres: 1–3 business days
• Ejari typing centres: Same day to 24 hours (varies by centre)

What to do after receiving your Ejari certificate

Once you have your Ejari certificate, keep a digital and physical copy. You will need it immediately for DEWA registration and will use it multiple times during your tenancy — for visa renewals, bank account applications, and if you ever need to file a dispute. The certificate contains a unique Ejari number and QR code that verifies its authenticity.

If any details on the certificate are incorrect (wrong name spelling, wrong rent amount, wrong dates), contact the registration office immediately to request a correction before relying on the document.