NEW CO-LIVING DISCLOSURE RULE IN DUBAI FOR TENANTS AND LANDLORDS

In an effort to regulate tenancy, especially with shared accommodations and strengthen tenancy compliance, the Dubai Land Department (DLD) has introduced a new requirement on the Ejari system. All occupants living in a rented unit—whether family members, co-tenants, or long-term guests—must be listed on the tenancy registration.

This update is part of Dubai’s wider crackdown on unlicensed or informal ‘co-living’ arrangements. Under the rule, any person residing in a property for a month or longer must be registered via the Dubai REST app, including details like Emirates ID, birth-date, and verification of status.

Why this matters

• For Tenants: Not disclosing all residents can lead to complications with lease renewal, visa processing, utilities setup, or even landlord enforcement. The rule means more transparency, and more responsibility.

• For Landlords: Ensuring all occupants are listed protects against penalties and ensures compliance with DLD/RERA regulations. It also provides greater control over who is legally residing in the property.

• For Investors & Agents: This shift impacts occupancy modelling, rental yield calculations (especially for co-living units), and portfolio risk management. Transaction advisors must be fully aware of this change.
  
  

Steps of the registration process

1. Download and install the Dubai REST app.

2. Log in using UAE PASS (digital ID) and navigate to ‘Manage property’ → ‘Manage co-occupants’.

3. Add each co-occupant’s details: Emirates ID number, date of birth, verification step.

4. Delete or update entries if someone moves out.

5. Submit changes and keep a copy of the updated Ejari certificate for your records.
   
   

Tips for Tenants to Stay Compliant & Negotiate Smart

• Before you sign or renew a lease, ask the landlord or agent if all intended occupants will be registered in Ejari.

• Consider co-living arrangements only if they’re properly registered—otherwise you may face legal or visa issues.

• If you’re negotiating rent or lease terms, highlight that you meet the compliance standard, which may give you leverage for better terms or a longer contract.

• For landlords: Make this compliance part of your marketing—being fully registered and transparent may attract higher-quality tenants and justify a cleaner rate.

• For investors: Understand that co-living units may carry additional listing or compliance costs—evaluate risk and yield with full transparency.
  
  

The new Ejari co-occupancy registration rule clarifies who can legally live in a leased unit and strengthens tenant-landlord relationships with greater transparency. While it adds administrative steps, it also reduces risk, supports legal certainty and enhances the credibility of the rental process in Dubai.

If you’re a tenant seeking clarity, a landlord aiming to enforce compliance, or an investor navigating leasing strategy, partnering with the right consultancy is essential. At Anarock Middle East, we provide expert guidance on tenancy regulation, lease negotiation and portfolio compliance—ensuring your rental dealings are safe, efficient and aligned with Dubai’s evolving market. Contact us today to receive tailored support that goes far beyond a standard agent transaction.