1. Pre-Move Checklist
Documentation and preparation before tenant move-in
Required Documents from Tenant
Ensure all documents are collected and verified before proceeding with the tenancy agreement. Missing documents may delay the move-in process.
- Valid Emirates ID (both sides, clear copy)
- Valid Passport with UAE residence visa page
- Passport-size photograph (white background)
- Proof of income / Employment letter / Trade license
- Previous tenancy contract (if applicable)
- Security deposit payment confirmation
- Signed Terms & Conditions acknowledgment
For corporate tenants, additional documents required: Trade License, Chamber of Commerce certificate, and authorized signatory letter.
Property Preparation
Complete the following tasks to ensure the property is ready for the new tenant:
- Professional deep cleaning completed
- All maintenance issues resolved and documented
- AC filters cleaned/replaced and system tested
- All keys, access cards, and remotes collected and counted
- Utility meters photographed and readings recorded
- Property inspection report prepared with photos
- Welcome pack prepared (building rules, emergency contacts, etc.)
- Parking space allocated and sticker prepared (if applicable)
Never hand over keys until all payments are cleared and the contract is fully executed by all parties.
2. Contract Signing Procedures
Steps for executing the tenancy agreement
Contract Preparation
Follow these steps to prepare the tenancy contract:
Draft Contract
Use the standard tenancy contract template. Fill in all tenant details, property information, and agreed terms.
Internal Review
Have the contract reviewed by a supervisor for accuracy. Verify rental amount, dates, and special clauses.
Tenant Review
Send draft to tenant for review 48 hours before signing. Address any questions or concerns.
Final Preparation
Print 3 copies: Landlord, Tenant, and Property Management. Prepare signing location.
Contract Signing Meeting
Conduct the signing meeting professionally and ensure all parties understand their obligations.
Ejari Registration
Register the tenancy contract with Ejari within 14 days of signing:
| Document | Description | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Signed Tenancy Contract | Original or attested copy | Required |
| Title Deed | Copy from landlord | Required |
| Tenant Emirates ID | Both sides, valid | Required |
| Landlord Emirates ID | Or POA if applicable | Required |
| DEWA Premise Number | From DEWA bill | Required |
Complete Ejari registration online through the Dubai REST app for faster processing. Registration typically takes 15-30 minutes.
Tawtheeq Registration (Abu Dhabi)
For properties in Abu Dhabi, register the tenancy contract with Tawtheeq through the TAMM platform:
| Document | Description | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Signed Tenancy Contract | Original signed by both parties | Required |
| Title Deed / Affection Plan | Proof of property ownership | Required |
| Tenant Emirates ID | Valid, both sides | Required |
| Landlord Emirates ID | Or authorized POA | Required |
| Tenant Passport + Visa | Valid residence visa | Required |
| ADDC Premise Number | Water & electricity account | Required |
Tawtheeq registration is mandatory for all residential rentals in Abu Dhabi. Complete within 30 days of contract signing. Required for visa applications, school enrollments, and ADDC utility connections. Register via tamm.abudhabi or TAMM app.
3. Key Handover Process
Property inspection and access handover procedures
Pre-Handover Verification
Before scheduling key handover, verify the following:
- Contract fully signed by all parties
- Security deposit received and cleared
- First rent payment received and cleared
- Ejari (Dubai) or Tawtheeq (Abu Dhabi) registration completed or in progress
- Property inspection scheduled with tenant
Property Walkthrough
Conduct a thorough inspection with the tenant present:
Exterior Areas
Check entrance, balcony, parking space. Note any existing damage or wear.
Living Spaces
Inspect walls, floors, windows, and doors. Test all light switches and outlets.
Kitchen
Test all appliances, check cabinets, run water. Document appliance conditions.
Bathrooms
Check fixtures, run water, test flush. Look for any leaks or damage.
AC & Utilities
Test AC in all rooms. Record meter readings with photos.
Documentation
Photograph all areas. Complete inventory checklist. Both parties sign.
Keys & Access Items
Provide the following items and document the handover:
| Item | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Main Door Keys | 3 sets | Original keys only |
| Building Access Card | 2 cards | Programmed for gym, pool, gates |
| Parking Remote / Card | 1-2 units | Based on allocated spaces |
| Mailbox Key | 1 set | If applicable |
| AC Remotes | Per unit | Test each one |
| Intercom Phone Manual | 1 copy | Building communication system |
Take timestamped photos of all meter readings, any existing damage, and the key handover moment. Store in tenant file for future reference.
4. Utility Registration
Setting up DEWA, Chiller, and other utilities
DEWA Registration (Dubai)
Guide the tenant through the DEWA connection process:
ADDC Registration (Abu Dhabi)
For properties in Abu Dhabi, register with Abu Dhabi Distribution Company (ADDC):
- Tawtheeq certificate (tenancy contract registered with municipality)
- Emirates ID copy (both sides)
- Passport with valid residence visa
- Security deposit (varies by property type)
- Property premise number from landlord or previous bill
- Mobile number registered in UAE
Set up autopay through the ADDC app to avoid service interruption. For properties in Al Ain, register with Al Ain Distribution Company (AADC) instead.
District Cooling (Chiller)
For properties with district cooling, separate registration may be required:
| Provider | Coverage Area | Registration |
|---|---|---|
| Tabreed | Abu Dhabi (Al Reem, Saadiyat, Yas, Downtown) | tabreed.ae |
| Empower | Dubai (JLT, Business Bay, Downtown, etc.) | empower.ae |
| Emicool | Dubai Investment Park, Motor City | emicool.net |
| Palm Utilities | Palm Jumeirah | palmutilities.ae |
| National Central Cooling (Tabreed) | Various UAE locations | tabreed.ae |
Many Abu Dhabi developments include district cooling via Tabreed. Check if the property has a Tabreed connection - if so, the tenant will need to register directly with Tabreed for AC charges, separate from ADDC utilities.
Additional Services
Inform tenant about these optional but recommended registrations:
Internet & TV
du or Etisalat. Recommend setting up appointment before move-in.
Home Insurance
Contents insurance recommended. Some buildings require it.
Moving Services
Provide list of approved/recommended moving companies.
Cleaning Services
Share contacts for regular cleaning service providers.
Emergency Contacts
Provide tenant with essential contact information for Dubai and Abu Dhabi:
📞 Important Contacts
Once all steps are completed, send a welcome email to the tenant with their contract copy, Ejari/Tawtheeq certificate, receipts, and all relevant contact information. Schedule a follow-up call within 7 days to ensure everything is satisfactory.