Ejari

Frequently asked questions

What is a good Ejari registration timeline for a new tenancy?

Ejari should be registered within 30 days of signing the tenancy agreement, though it is best practice to register before the tenant moves in. DEWA (Dubai Electricity and Water Authority) connections require a valid Ejari number, so delays in registration can prevent the tenant from activating utilities. The registration process typically takes 1 to 3 working days when done online through the Dubai REST app or approved typing centres.

How do you register a tenancy contract through Ejari?

Register via the Dubai REST app, the Ejari portal, or an accredited typing centre. You will need the signed tenancy contract, the landlord's title deed, both parties' Emirates IDs or passports, and the DEWA premises number. The fee is approximately AED 220 for online registration. Once registered, you receive a unique Ejari certificate number that must be quoted in all official communications related to that tenancy.

What is the difference between Ejari and Tawtheeq?

Ejari is Dubai's tenancy registration system managed by RERA. Tawtheeq is the equivalent system in Abu Dhabi, managed by the Abu Dhabi Municipality. Both serve the same purpose of creating an official government record of tenancy agreements, but they are separate systems for separate emirates. If you manage properties in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi, you need to register through the appropriate system for each property's location.

Can a landlord evict a tenant without Ejari registration?

Without Ejari registration, a tenancy agreement is not legally recognized by Dubai courts, which makes formal eviction proceedings extremely difficult. A non-registered contract also means the tenant cannot legally connect DEWA utilities in their name. Both parties are disadvantaged by non-registration: the landlord loses enforcement rights, and the tenant loses proof of legal residency. IONROI tracks Ejari document uploads so you can verify compliance across your entire portfolio.