Finding a home to rent

Almost every rental in Dubai is listed on one of three property websites. Here’s how to search them well and what to expect from agents.

The three websites

All three have apps. We don’t show listings ourselves: use the sites directly.

Searching well

• Filter by price per year. Rents are shown as a yearly amount
• Look for “verified” listings. The big sites check that some listings are real and available Badge names vary
• Check the number of cheques. “1 cheque” prices are lower than “4 cheques” prices
• Furnished or not. Most homes are unfurnished, often without curtains or white goods
• Chiller-free. This means air conditioning is included in the rent
• Save searches for two or three areas and act quickly: good homes go within days

Every ad needs a permit

In Dubai, property ads must carry an advertising permit number from the Dubai Land Department (DLD), often with a QR code. An ad without one is a warning sign. Check before relying on it

Working with agents

• Most landlords use an agent. You usually pay the agent 5% of the yearly rent plus VAT
• Agents must be registered with RERA, the property regulator. Ask for their broker number and check it in the Dubai REST app
• Ask the agent to send everything on WhatsApp so you have a written record
• Agents often show you several homes in one trip. Tell them your budget, area and move-in date

Before you land

1. Shortlist two or three areas. Where to live in Dubai
2. Watch prices for a few weeks to learn what’s normal
3. Book a month in a serviced flat or short let
4. Line up viewings for your second and third weeks

On the viewing

• Check the air conditioning: its age, noise and who pays for cooling
• Run the taps for water pressure and hot water
• Ask about parking, the gym and pool, and how fast repairs happen
• Listen for roads, building work and flight paths
• Check the building allows pets, if you have one

Ready to sign? Read Spotting fake listings and bad agents first, then Renting: Ejari, cheques and DEWA.