20 Jun 2025

Rent an Apartment: Everything You Need to Know Before You Do

Looking to rent an apartment in Dubai? It might feel a bit overwhelming at first. With its tall buildings and famous attractions, Dubai can seem like a big, new world. But don’t worry—renting here is a lot like renting anywhere else.

You'll work with real estate agents and landlords, and you'll need to think about things like location, price, and what features matter most to you. It helps to know the local rental market, have your documents ready, and understand your budget and needs. This way, you can find an apartment in Dubai that fits your lifestyle.

It’s also smart to know your rights as a renter. These include what landlords must fix or maintain and rules that protect you from sudden rent increases. Knowing your rights can help you feel more confident when signing a rental agreement.

Keep in mind that many landlords in Dubai ask for post-dated cheques, usually for three months or even a full year of rent. Make sure you plan your budget to match. There are many properties for rent in Dubai, from affordable apartments to high-end luxury options. So take your time, explore different areas, and choose the one that feels right for you.

Define Your Budget

Before you rent an apartment in Dubai, it's important to know how much you can spend. Set a clear budget so you don’t waste time looking at places you can’t afford. Think about not just the rent, but also extra costs like electricity, water, maintenance, and daily living expenses.

Dubai has many options to fit different budgets—from high-end penthouses to smaller, more affordable studios. No matter what you’re looking for, you’ll find plenty of apartments for rent in Dubai that match your needs and budget.

Find a Reliable Property Agent

 If you're looking for the cheapest place to rent an apartment, working with a good real estate agent can really help. Dubai’s rental market can be confusing, especially if you’re new to the city. That’s why it’s important to choose an agent you can trust.

Experienced agents know the best areas, understand the market, and often have access to listings you won’t find online. They’ll help you find the right apartment that fits your budget and lifestyle.

Want help from experts? You can find apartments with Be Real Estate in popular areas like Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah, and other top neighborhoods. 

Location and Amenities

If you’re figuring out how to rent an apartment in Dubai, it’s important to think about both the location and the features that matter to you. Look for places that are close to your work or your kids’ schools—cutting down on commute time can really improve your day. It’s also worth checking if public transport is nearby, like metro stations or bus stops. Many areas in Dubai are packed with useful spots like grocery stores, cafes, and entertainment, so try to pick a location that makes everyday life easier. A lot of apartment buildings also come with extras like pools, gyms, and parking—decide what you really need before you begin your search.

If you're feeling unsure about where to start, visit Be Real Estate. Our friendly team knows the city well and can help you find a place that truly suits your lifestyle and budget. Whether you’re after something simple or something more luxurious, we’ll guide you through the options and make the whole process a lot less stressful.

Understand the Rental Process

 Before you start looking for an apartment for rent in Dubai, it’s a good idea to understand how the rental process works. Start by visiting different apartments so you can compare locations, sizes, and features. This helps you get a better idea of what’s available and what fits your needs.

Once you find a place you like, you’ll need to share documents like your passport copy, Emirates ID, visa, and proof of income. After everything is approved, you’ll sign a rental agreement and usually give post-dated cheques for the year’s rent. Knowing these steps in advance can make it much easier to rent an apartment in Dubai without any surprises.

Inspect the Property

Before you rent an apartment in Dubai, it’s a smart move to visit the place yourself. Walk through the apartment and see if everything looks in good shape. Check for things like cracked walls, water leaks, or anything that looks worn out. Turn on the appliances—like the stove, fridge, and washing machine—to make sure they’re working properly. Don’t forget to look for safety features, too, like smoke detectors and fire alarms.

Taking the time to inspect the apartment can save you from unexpected headaches later. With so many properties for rent in Dubai, you’ve got options—so don’t settle for something that doesn’t feel right. Make sure the place is clean, safe, and suits your lifestyle before you sign anything.

Rental Paperwork Essentials

Even if you're looking for the cheapest place to rent an apartment, you’ll still need to prepare some important documents. These usually include a copy of your passport, residence visa, and Emirates ID. You’ll also need to give a security deposit cheque—usually 5% of the yearly rent for an unfurnished apartment, or 10% if it’s furnished. Don’t forget the agency fee cheque, which is usually another 5% of the annual rent.

Once your documents are ready, it becomes easier to secure a good deal. Whether you're choosing a budget-friendly option or exploring premium apartments for rent in Dubai, having everything prepared will help speed up the process and improve your chances of getting the place you want.

Registering Your Tenancy Contract with Ejari

As part of learning how to rent an apartment in Dubai, you’ll need to register your rental contract with Ejari. This step is required by law and is also necessary to set up your utilities like water and electricity. To complete the Ejari registration, you’ll need a signed tenancy contract, proof of rent and deposit payments, a copy of the property's Title Deed (provided by the landlord), passport and Emirates ID copies, and your DEWA Premises Number. There’s also a small fee—AED 220 at a typing center or AED 172 online. Although landlords are usually responsible for the contract, tenants often handle the registration and pay the fee.

If you're unsure about where to begin or want expert help, you can find apartments with Be Real Estate and get support through every step—including the Ejari registration process. We’ll make sure everything goes smoothly so you can move in without stress.

How to Set Up District Cooling in Your Apartment

When moving into an apartment for rent in Dubai, you’ll need to set up district cooling, which helps keep your home cool. To get started, you’ll need a copy of your signed rental contract, your passport, Emirates ID, and the filled-out registration forms. You’ll also have to pay a refundable deposit—around AED 2,000 for apartments and AED 4,000 for villas. Companies like Emicool and Empower manage cooling services in many Dubai buildings.

In most cases, the landlord includes chiller fees in your total rent, which covers maintenance and service costs. But some landlords may let you pay these fees separately and reduce your annual rent instead. To learn more about how this works or to explore the best rental options, visit Be Real Estate—we’ll guide you through every step and help you find the right place to call home.

Other Things You Might Need

When you rent an apartment in certain areas of Dubai—like Downtown, Arabian Ranches, The Springs, The Meadows, or Dubai Marina—you may need a move-in permit before you can start living there. You can ask your agent or landlord for the right forms, which are usually available on the developer’s website.

To get the permit, you’ll need a signed rental contract, proof of property ownership (from the landlord), copies of your passport and Emirates ID, and a recent service charge receipt for the building. Before the permit is approved, any unpaid service charges must be cleared. Some buildings also ask you to book the service elevator for moving day and may take a refundable deposit in case of damage. If you're still exploring apartments for rent in Dubai, make sure to check these details ahead of time so there are no delays on move-in day.

Conclusion

Rent an apartment in Dubai can be a smooth and rewarding experience if you’re well-prepared. Start by figuring out what matters most to you—like your budget, the kind of area you want to live in, and any features you can’t do without. Once you’ve got that sorted, take the time to explore different neighborhoods and see what suits your lifestyle.

There are plenty of properties for rent in Dubai, whether you’re looking for something simple or a high-end apartment with great views. Spend some time checking out different areas and visiting a few properties yourself. It’s completely normal to ask questions and even try to negotiate the rent—many landlords are open to it. With a bit of time and effort, you’ll find something that fits your budget and feels just right.