Contracts and documents required for renting a property in Abu Dhabi
- Finding Rental Properties in Abu Dhabi
- Documents for Renting a Property in Abu Dhabi
- Tenancy Contract in Abu Dhabi
- FAQs
Although the entire process of renting a property does not come with a manual, there’s an understanding of the standard steps involved. One of the major aspects of the process is gathering important documents to finalise the agreement. Keeping this in mind, our guide highlights the required contracts and documents for renting a property in Abu Dhabi.
How to Look for a Rental Property in Abu Dhabi
Before you concern yourself with documents and contracts needed for renting a property, it is equally important to carry out due diligence when looking for a suitable residence. One way to find an apartment that suits your needs is by scouting online sources such as Bayut or contacting reputable agencies.
Once you get in touch with an agency, we recommend that you drive through different communities you think feature apartments and villas appropriate for you and your family. You can even approach the reception desk in residential buildings and see if there’s a vacant apartment available for viewing.
The next step would be to secure a property for rent in Abu Dhabi that you deem fit for your needs and approach the agent to initiate the renting process.
Documents Required for Renting a Property in Abu Dhabi
The next question that needs addressing is ‘What are the documents needed to rent a property in Abu Dhabi?’ The first step is to secure the property by paying a security deposit, which is 5% of the rent. Please note that the tenant has to pay the security deposit and it is not included in the rent.
However, the landlord will return the deposit to the tenant once the rental contract has ended. But remember, that any damages incurred during your tenancy may result in the landlord deducting applicable maintenance fees from the deposited amount before its complete return.
Other than the security deposit, here is the list of documents required to rent a property in Abu Dhabi:
- A valid residency visa
- A copy of your passport
- Valid Emirates ID
- Marriage certificate (if applicable and living with your partner)
- Proof of income or a letter of employment
- Recent bank statement
Some additional documents might include:
- Awqaf approval (for properties owned by Awqaf)
- Residential privacy committee approval (for certain areas)
- Authorisation letter from tenant agent (if using an agent)
- Tenant company trade licence (for commercial properties)
- Power of attorney (if signing on behalf of someone else)
Please note that you might need to have some of your official legal documents translated into Arabic and verified by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs as well as the UAE Embassy or the Consulate of your home country.
Once the documents are submitted, the landlord and the tenant will draw up a rental contract that usually outlines:
- Monthly rent amount and due date
- Method of payment
- Security deposit amount and terms of return
- Start and end date of the lease
- Renewal options (if applicable)
Register Tenancy Contract with Tawtheeq Abu Dhabi
As soon as your rental contract is agreed upon and signed, the next step is to register the contract with Tawtheeq Abu Dhabi. What is Tawtheeq, you might ask? Well, it is an online system that is managed by the Abu Dhabi Municipality and registers the tenancy contract for renting in Abu Dhabi.
According to the Abu Dhabi tenancy law, the registration process is usually carried out by by either the property owner or the real estate consultants managing the property in Abu Dhabi. This is different from Ejari in Dubai, which is usually taken care of by the tenants.
FAQs About Contracts and Documents for Renting a Property in Abu Dhabi
What is the difference between a tenancy contract and Tawtheeq?
A tenancy contract is a legally binding document that outlines all the terms and conditions of a rental agreement. However, Taweetheeq is an online system, operated by ADM, where you register the tenancy contract.
How can I get a water and electricity connection in my new rental apartment in Abu Dhabi?
Once your tenancy contract for renting in Abu Dhabi is registered with Tawtheeq, the Abu Dhabi Distribution Company (ADDC) will automatically start your water and electricity activation process.
In case you haven’t registered the tenancy contract, you will have to submit your passport, Emirates ID and a copy of the signed rental contract to the municipality. After which, the ADDC will send an activation code message and deposit of AED 1,000 from your side.
Can I terminate my tenancy contract before the end date of the lease?
Ending a rental agreement in Abu Dhabi before the end date involves legal ramifications. Early terminal without a valid reason means the tenant is liable to pay a penalty, usually two months’ rent as stipulated in the contract or Abu Dhabi Rent Law No. 4 of 2010.
Depending on the contract, a two-month notice period is required before vacating or the penalty could apply. The tenant must leave the property in good condition as per the inventory. Any repair costs resulting from the damage will be deducted from the security deposit.
This concludes our guide on the required contracts and documents for renting a property in Abu Dhabi. Planning to move to the capital city? Check out these apartments for rent in Abu Dhabi. If you are looking for bigger accommodation for added privacy, rental villas in Abu Dhabi bring you numerous options!
For more information on renting or selling properties in Abu Dhabi, stay tuned to MyBayut!
