Moving Out of Your Dubai Rental Property in 2025: Comprehensive Guide

  1. Review Your Tenancy Contract

    • Understand Terms: Carefully review clauses related to termination, notice periods, early exit penalties, and renewal conditions. Contracts may specify different notice periods, so always check your Ejari-registered agreement.
    • Notice Period: While the standard is 30-60 days, some contracts may require longer. For 2025, landlords must give 90 days’ notice for eviction or rent increases, but tenants are only bound by their contract’s notice period unless otherwise stated.
    • Renewal Clause: If your contract auto-renews, submit your vacate notice within the stipulated timeframe to avoid unwanted renewal.
  2. Notify Your Landlord Officially

    • Written Notice: Submit your vacate notice in writing (email with read receipt or registered mail) stating your move-out date. Keep a copy for your records.
    • Maintain Communication: Stay in touch with your landlord or property manager regarding inspection and handover schedules.
  3. Disconnect Utility Services

    • DEWA: Disconnect online via the DEWA app/website 2-3 days before moving. Settle all bills and provide your IBAN for the security deposit refund.
    • Telecom Services: Notify providers (Etisalat/du) of your move-out date, settle outstanding bills, and inquire about early termination fees if applicable. Request cancellation 7–10 days before moving.
    • Other Utilities: Disconnect gas, district cooling (Empower, Emicool, Tabreed etc), and any other services as required.
  4. Prepare the Property for Handover

    • Cleaning: Deep clean the property, focusing on kitchens, bathrooms, and floors. Professional cleaning is recommended.
    • Repairs: Fix any damages beyond normal wear and tear as per your contract.
    • Remove Belongings: Ensure all personal items are removed.
    • Inventory Check: Use the inventory list (if provided) to confirm all items are present.
  5. Schedule and Conduct the Final Inspection

    • Coordinate: Arrange a joint inspection with your landlord or agent.
    • Documentation: Take photos and videos of the property’s condition. Obtain a signed handover report if possible.
  6. Security Deposit Refund

    • Legal Framework: Landlords must return the deposit within 30 days, minus deductions for damages beyond normal wear and tear or unpaid bills. Deductions must be justified with documentation.
    • Dispute Resolution: If deductions are unfair or refund delayed, file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Settlement Centre (RDSC).
  7. Return Access Items & Cancel Subscriptions

    • Access Cards/Permits: Return all access cards and parking permits to building management.
    • Memberships: cancel or terminate any memberships to clubs or gyms if you are moving to a new neighborhood by respecting the relevant terms and conditions.
    • Apps: Deactivate any community apps (e.g., Emaar One, Nakheel).
  8. Cancel Ejari Registration

    • Required Documents: Emirates ID, tenancy contract, DEWA final bill/disconnection confirmation.
    • Procedure: Cancel online via Dubai REST app or at an authorized Ejari center. A fee may apply.
  9. Obtain a Move-Out Permit (If Applicable)

    • Gated Communities: Check with building management for move-out permit requirements. Arrange this in advance for your moving company.
    • Documents Needed: Tenancy contract, Emirates ID, passport, utility clearance, and landlord NOC (if required).
  10. Additional 2025 Considerations

    • Tenant Rights: New laws protect tenants from arbitrary eviction and rent increases, and clarify maintenance responsibilities.
    • Maintenance: Landlords must handle major repairs (plumbing, electrical, structural), relieving tenants of this burden.
    • Digitalization: Use online platforms for utility disconnections, Ejari cancellation, and rental payments for a streamlined process.
    • Legal Support: Free consultations and online resources are available for tenancy disputes through RERA and Tenant Support Centers.

Summary Table: Key Steps for Moving Out in Dubai (2025)

Step Details
Notice to Landlord 30-60 days (as per contract); 90 days for landlord eviction/rent increase
Utility Disconnection DEWA, telecom, gas, district cooling; settle all bills and request deposit refund
Property Handover Deep clean, repair damages, inventory check, joint inspection, document condition
Security Deposit Refund within 30 days; deductions must be justified
Ejari Cancellation Online or in person; Emirates ID, contract, DEWA bill; fee may apply
Move-Out Permit Required in gated communities; arrange in advance
Return Access Items Cards, permits, cancel memberships, deactivate apps

By following this guide, you’ll ensure a smooth, legally compliant move-out process in Dubai in 2025, protecting your rights and your security deposit.

Scan the code