What happens if my Ejari registration doesn't match my actual rent in Dubai?
My Ejari contract shows a different rent amount than what I actually pay my landlord in Dubai — is this a problem, and what should I do?
1 Answer
12 Jul 2026
A Mismatch Between Ejari and Actual Rent Can Cause Real Problems Later
Ejari is the official government-registered record of your tenancy, used for visa applications, DEWA connections, and any rental dispute. If it doesn't reflect what you actually pay, rent increase calculations at renewal are based on the Ejari-registered figure, not verbal arrangements.
Why This Mismatch Happens
It's usually the result of side agreements — a landlord registering a lower figure to reduce Ejari fees, or a tenant paying additional amounts in cash outside the official contract.
What to Do About It
Request that your landlord correct the Ejari registration to match your actual rent. If they refuse and the discrepancy is being used to justify future increases beyond legal RERA rent index limits, Dubai's Rental Dispute Settlement Centre can review the case using bank transfer or cheque records as evidence.
Keeping Good Records
Always pay rent by bank transfer or post-dated cheque rather than cash, and keep copies of every payment. If maintenance disputes come up alongside a rent discrepancy, documenting requests in writing helps build a clear paper trail.
— BidMyJob Advice Team | support@bidmyjob.ae
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my Dubai landlord charge more than what's on my Ejari contract?+
No — rent increases are calculated based on the RERA rental index using the Ejari-registered rent, so a mismatch can create disputes over what increase is actually legal.
What proof do I need if my Ejari doesn't match my actual rent in Dubai?+
Bank transfer records or post-dated cheque copies are the strongest evidence of actual rent paid.
Who is responsible for registering Ejari in Dubai — landlord or tenant?+
Either party can register Ejari, but it is standard practice for the landlord or their agent to handle it as part of finalising the tenancy contract.