The standard payment terms for apartments for rent in Dubai usually include one to six equal installments spread over the tenancy agreement. The first installment may be larger than the remaining ones.

The security deposit is generally 5% of the annual rent for unfurnished properties and 10% for furnished Dubai apartments for rent. This deposit is refundable at the end of the tenancy, depending on the property’s condition and your contract.

If the tenancy agreement is in an individual’s name, you’ll need your passport, residency visa, and Emirates ID. For company rentals, provide the company’s trade license, passport copy and visa of the company owner, and the occupant's passport and residency visa. A salary certificate may also be required to show sufficient income.

Ejari is a mandatory registration of the tenancy contract with the Dubai Land Department. The Ejari registration fee is AED 214.50, including VAT.

No, landlords can only increase rent once a year, providing 90 days' notice before the lease renewal. Rent increases must also comply with RERA’s guidelines, with a maximum cap of 20%, based on the rental index and current market rates.

A residency visa is required for long-term rentals in Dubai. If your visa is in process, consult a leasing client manager for advice. Short-term apartments for rent in Dubai are available to both residents and non-residents.

Tenants are responsible for a municipality tax of 5% of the annual rent, shown separately on the electricity bill. You may also need to pay air conditioning fees if the property doesn’t meter each unit individually. The landlord is responsible for service fees related to the property.

Tenants are not permitted to make changes to the flats for rent in Dubai without written permission from the landlord. This includes painting and altering fixtures.