Moving homes can be stressful no matter where you live, but if you’re moving to Dubai, there are a few obstacles you’ll need to be ready for.
There are a ton of procedures you’ll need to understand whether you’re moving to Dubai or within Dubai. It can be a real undertaking, from setting up Ejari to calculating the overall cost (beyond just your annual rent checks), connecting DEWA, and making sure you have functional wi-fi.
Here is our detailed guide to help moving houses in Dubai without too much stress and to make sure you’re fully prepared.
1. Check your tenancy contract
Check your tenancy agreement to see if there are any provisions for early termination or non-renewal. Even if you are leaving immediately after your tenancy agreement expires, the contract may have specified requirements for the amount of notice you must give before leaving.
Additionally, you ought to request a refund of the security deposit. Talk to your current landlord about all of these issues. Speak with your new landlord if you are relocating to a new rental property.
2. Register for a new Ejari
This includes establishing your new DEWA (water and electricity connection) and du (internet, TV). The Arabic word ejari, which means “my rent,” ensures that all lease agreements between tenants and landlords are reported to and governed by the government in order to protect the rights of all parties.
The following papers are required in order to register your contract and obtain your Ejari certificate:
- The original, signed lease agreement;
- Copies of the tenant’s Emirates ID;
- Copies of the tenant’s visa;
- Copies of the tenant’s passport;
- Copies of the landlord’s passport;
- Copies of the title deed;
- Copies of the security deposit receipt;
- Copies of the previous tenant’s last DEWA bill;
Your Ejari can be done at approved typing centres across Dubai, including at Al Barsha Mall.
3. Book a reliable moving company
In order to guarantee a smooth move, there are moving companies in Dubai that offer packages you can buy. In fact, many movers offer a maintenance/decorating/moving package that lasts two or three days so you can make plans accordingly.
For AED 3,000, you could, for example, purchase a package that includes redecorating your current home as well as packing, moving, and reassembling your furniture in your new home. Definitely a good investment!
However, before you begin the process of finding a moving company, there are several things to consider:
- First, ensure that your chosen company has a good reputation among its clients and in the industry as a whole. You can do this by checking out their references and reviews online or by talking to people who have used them before.
- Next, ask about their insurance and liability coverages, so that you know they will be able to pay for any damage they cause during the move (whether intentionally or not). They should also be able to provide proof of these when requested by prospective clients like yourself!
- Ask how long they have been doing local moves such as yours before deciding on one mover versus another—the more experience someone has doing what needs done during your type of move in particular area means less likely chance something unexpected happens during it all!
4. Cancel current registrations and re-register for Internet & DEWA
The utility and telephone connections must be terminated. Apply for new connections based on your new home’s location as well after that. To finish your online Ejari registration in Dubai, use the REST app.
The majority of service providers in the UAE began offering their services online in 2021, enabling customers to upload required documentation and make payments online. Before you relocate, establish your utility and telecom connections.
Switching your DEWA is not too hard either
Your DEWA water and electricity account can be transferred more easily than ever thanks to Dubai’s government’s ongoing efforts to streamline services by moving more and more procedures online.
Visit the DEWA website and complete the Transfer of Electricity / Water (Move-to) form using the login information for the current DEWA connection in the home you are leaving.
You will need the account number for the property you are leaving behind, the Ejari number and premise number for your new property, as well as your desired moving out date (remember to allow time for that final paint/cleaning work).
The DEWA connection at the property you have chosen will typically be activated at your new home within 24 hours of submitting your application.
5. Arrange for move in/move out permits
The developer of your building or community may require move-in and move-out permits; while the necessary paperwork is provided by the developer, the majority of these usually require a NOC from your landlord in addition to proof of your final DEWA, district cooling (if applicable), and Du bills.
When it comes to tenants occupying or leaving properties in its towers and communities, reputable names like Emaar are among the developers that are most bureaucratic.
There is no getting around this requirement by being charming, so make sure you have all the documents you require at least one week in advance.
6. Return current apartment/villa back to its original condition
Many tenants in Dubai are unaware that the law that once required that all property be returned in its original condition has changed. In actuality, it is no longer required of tenants to restore a unit to its pre-move-in condition.
Good tenants will, however, make sure the place is in good shape before leaving and may want to patch any holes, paint over them, and fix any broken doorknobs, handles, or banisters.
7. Go house hunting in the meantime
Browse websites like Property Finder or Bayut, go to the office of your preferred real estate agent, and explain your needs and search criteria to them.
We have no doubt you’d be able to find your new place easily, provided you aren’t too picky. You’ll be pleasantly surprised to find that Dubai’s real estate game is a fast-paced one, with new properties listed on an hourly basis across the entire emirate.
8. Obtain an NOC from the landlord allowing you to move out
Obtaining a NOC from your current landlord before leaving your Dubai apartment or villa is a simple step that many people overlook. This document should be given to the management and/or security of the building or community so they are aware that your landlord has approved your move-out without any problems or cause for concern.
9. Shop for furniture
The best part is that you can shop for your new apartment from home! You’ll likely need new furniture or white goods if you’ve upgraded. Affordable white goods can be found at stores like Carrefour, and you can browse the entire home section of the Mall of the Emirates. Not to mention ACE Hardware and IKEA, which are great places to buy some new furniture and are located in Dubai Festival City.
Additional things to consider when moving houses in Dubai
Moving With Children
When it comes to moving with children, the key is to make sure they feel like they’re involved in the process. They can help with packing and unpacking, moving furniture, and cleaning the new house before you move in. The more involved they are, the less stressed they’ll be when it comes time for every member of your family to pack up their bags and head out on foot or by car. You might also consider asking friends and family members if they have children who would like temporary playmates!
Moving With Pets
When moving with pets, make sure to ask your vet about any vaccinations or medication you may need for your pet. You should also check with them about any dietary restrictions and bring along a collar and leash in case you have to walk outside with your pet. The last thing you want is your cat escaping while it’s in the car, so make sure they have their own transportation!
After moving houses in Dubai
Once you have settled in, it is time to start unpacking and rearranging your belongings. After all, moving is not just about the physical aspect of packing and unpacking; it also involves emotional aspects like organizing your new home to feel like home again.
Make sure you have all the necessary utilities connected in order to have access to water, electricity and gas as soon as possible.
