Additional Expenses for the Tenant

What to consider when renting property in Dubai

In Dubai, additional expenses for the tenant average 15%–30% of the annual rent.

Security Deposit

5% – for unfurnished property

10% – for furnished property

This amount is charged as a guarantee against property damage and is refunded when tenant vacates the property.

Ejari Registration

From $27 + $5 Fees

Dubai legislation requires rental contracts to be registered in the unified Ejari system. Typically, the cost of registration is paid by the tenant.

Housing Fee

5% of the annual rent

This amount is divided into 12 parts and is built into the monthly DEWA bill.

DEWA Utilities 

Connection

Apartment:

• $545 – Refundable Upon Check-out
• $30 – Non-refundable Activation Fee
• $8 – Additional Fees

Villa:

• $1100 – Refundable Upon Check-out
• $80 – Non-refundable Activation Fee
• $8 – Additional Fees

Utility Payment

Monthly payment is based on meter reading. On the average, the bill for a 1-Bedroom apartment is $110.

District Cooling

Payment is based on meter reading and is included in the monthly DEWA bill

Consumption Charge: $0.001 per 1 RT (Refrigeration Ton)

Demand Charge: $200 for 1 RT per year. This amount is divided into 12 parts and is paid monthly.

Moving Costs

From $400

This amount depends on the size of the property and additional services (unpacking, storage or insurance).

Agency Fee

On the average, 5% of the annual rent

Example:

The cost of renting a furnished 1-Bedroom apartment in Dubai Marina is $15,000 per year

• Security Deposit – $1,500 
• Ejari Registration Fee – $30
• DEWA Deposit – $545
• Moving Costs – $550
• Agency Fee, 5% – $750

So, initial additional expenses of the tenant – $3,375 or 22.5% of the annual rent.