Table of Contents

1. What is RERA in Dubai?
2. Why RERA Matters in 2025
3. Key RERA Regulations for Real Estate Transactions
4. RERA Tools and Services for Everyone
5. How to Register with Ejari (Step-by-Step)
6. How to File a RERA Complaint (Step-by-Step)
7. How RERA Protects Tenants
8. RERA for Investors and Buyers
9. Becoming a RERA-Certified Real Estate Professional
10. FAQs
11. Key Takeaways

What is RERA in Dubai?

The Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) is the government body responsible for regulating Dubai’s real estate sector. Established in 2007 under the Dubai Land Department (DLD), RERA ensures transparency, protects stakeholders, and stabilizes the property market.

RERA’s responsibilities include:

• Regulating real estate agencies and brokers
• Managing rental rules and Ejari
• Overseeing developers and off-plan projects
• Setting service fee standards
• Providing dispute resolution systems
• Licensing and certifying property professionals

Why RERA Matters (Economic Context 2025)

With Dubai’s population expected to reach 3.6 million in 2025 and real estate contributing nearly 7% to the GDP, RERA’s regulatory framework is crucial to maintaining trust and preventing market abuse.

Dubai skyline with Burj Khalifa, showcasing RERA-regulated real estate in 2025.

Why RERA Matters in 2025

In 2025, Dubai is experiencing rapid expansion due to off-plan project launches, foreign investor demand, and record rental growth. RERA ensures this growth remains structured and fair.

Key reasons RERA is more important than ever:

1. Transparency

Every real estate activity—rent, sales, off-plan, advertising—is monitored through DLD and RERA systems such as:

• Trakheesi
• Ejari
• Oqood
• REST App

2. Protection

RERA shields renters, buyers, and investors from fraud, illegal rent hikes, poor practices, and misleading advertising.

3. Professional Accountability

Only trained, RERA-licensed brokers can legally work in Dubai. This ensures quality service and eliminates unregulated agents.

4. Updated Regulations for 2025

RERA adapts constantly. A notable update includes:

• Smart Rental Index (Launched January 2025): AI-driven rental adjustment tool replacing the old Rent Calculator.
• Dubai’s real estate ecosystem only functions as smoothly as it does because RERA regulates every stakeholder fairly.

Key RERA Regulations for Real Estate Transactions (2025 Guide)

Here are the foundational rules you must know:

1. Tenancy Regulations

• Rent increases follow the Smart Rental Index (AI-powered).
• A 90-day written notice is required to change rent or contract terms.
• Eviction requires 12 months’ notice via notarized letter.
• Major maintenance is the landlord’s responsibility.

RERA Rent Increase Limits (2025)

2. Escrow Account Requirements (For Off-Plan Buyers)

Developers must:

• Deposit buyer payments into RERA-approved escrow accounts
• Withdraw funds only after meeting construction milestones
• Provide progress reports through DLD's monitoring system

This eliminates the risk of developers misusing investor funds.

3. Broker Licensing Regulation

• All agents must have a valid RERA Broker ID
• Brokers need to pass the DREI course + RERA exam
• Advertising permits via Trakheesi are mandatory
• Illegal brokerage is subject to heavy fines (AED 50,000+)

4. Advertising Marketing Rules

Updated in 2023 and reinforced in 2025:

• All property ads require QR-coded permits
• Misleading ads result in strict penalties

RERA Tools and Services for Everyone

RERA provides powerful platforms to make real estate safer and more transparent.

1. Smart Rental Index Calculator (2025)

• AI-powered
• Replaces the old RERA Rent Calculator
• Gives real-time rental caps and market insights

2. Dubai REST App

A must-have tool that allows you to:

• Verify broker licenses
• Track property ownership
• Monitor off-plan progress
• Register Ejari
• File complaints
• Check RERA violation records

3. Ejari

Dubai’s official tenancy registration system—mandatory for all lease agreements.

How to Register with Ejari (Step-by-Step)

Here is the 2025 updated process:

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

• Passport Visa copy
• Emirates ID
• Tenancy Contract
• Landlord’s Title Deed
• Latest DEWA bill
• Tenant’s contact information

Step 2: Log In via UAE Pass

Access Ejari through:

• Dubai REST App, or
• Ejari Portal

Step 3: Enter Property Contract Details

Include:

• Unit number
• Property type location
• Contract start/end dates

Step 4: Upload Required Files

All documents must be uploaded in PDF format.

Step 5: Pay Ejari Registration Fee

• AED 155 + VAT

Step 6: Receive Ejari Certificate

Approved within 24 hours, includes:

• Unique Ejari barcode
• Unified tenancy number

Note: Without Ejari, your rental contract is NOT legally recognized.

How to File a RERA Complaint (Step-by-Step)

If you face issues such as illegal rent increases, delayed projects, or unlicensed agents, follow this process:

Step 1: Determine If Your Issue Falls Under RERA

Common cases:

• Rent disputes
• Landlord maintenance failures
• Illegal evictions
• Off-plan delays
• Broker misconduct

Step 2: Collect Evidence

Prepare:

• Ejari certificate
• Tenancy agreement
• Payment receipts
• Emails/WhatsApp exchanges
• Photos/videos (if maintenance related)

Step 3: File Your Complaint

You can file through:

• Dubai REST App, or
• RDC (Rental Dispute Centre) office

Step 4: Pay the Filing Fee

• AED 500 to AED 15,000
  (depends on case category and annual rent)

Step 5: Attend Virtual Hearing

RDC uses tele-litigation for most hearings.
Outcome usually issued within 30 days.

How RERA Protects Tenants

Tenants in Dubai enjoy among the strongest protections worldwide. RERA ensures:

✔ Rent Control

• The Smart Rental Index caps unfair rent hikes.

✔ Eviction Protection

Landlords must present a valid reason and provide 12 months' notice.

✔ Maintenance Responsibilities

Landlords must handle major repairs under Article 16 of Law No. 26.

✔ Dispute Resolution

RDC offers guided mediation and fast rulings.

RERA for Investors and Buyers

Dubai’s investor-friendly system is built on RERA’s regulatory framework.

1. Off-Plan Project Protection

• Escrow account monitoring
• Construction progress tracking
• Developer registration checks
• Oqood contract registration

2. Transparency in Ownership

Through the Dubai REST app, buyers can verify:

• Property ownership
• Developer name
• Project status
• Service charge history

3. Freehold Ownership

RERA clarifies eligibility across freehold zones for expats.

4. Dispute Resolution Support

Buyers can report:

• Delays
• Misleading ads
• Developer non-compliance

Becoming a RERA-Certified Real Estate Professional

Want to become an agent in Dubai? Here is the 2025 process:

Step 1: Have a Valid UAE Residency Visa

Either through:

• Employment, or
• Business ownership

Step 2: Apply Through the Dubai Land Department

Submit personal details and any real estate experience.

Step 3: Complete DREI Training

The Dubai Real Estate Institute offers:

• Online training
• In-person classes

Step 4: Pass the RERA Exam

Covers:

• Real estate laws
• Ethics
• Market practices

Step 5: Apply for Broker License

Done through:

• DLD
• Real estate company sponsorship

Step 6: Receive Your RERA ID Card

Validity:

• 1–2 years

Renew at least 60 days before expiry to avoid penalties.

FAQs

How do I check if my rent increase is legal?

Use the Smart Rental Index Calculator on Dubai REST.
If the increase exceeds the allowed limit, file a complaint with the RDC.

What is the difference between the old Rent Calculator and the Smart Rental Index?

• Old tool: Based on historical averages
• 2025 Smart Index: AI-powered, accurate, and updated instantly

Can a landlord evict me to raise the rent?

No. Eviction must follow strict rules and cannot be used to force price changes.

What if my landlord refuses Ejari registration?

You may file a complaint with RERA or RDC—Ejari is legally required.

How do I check a developer’s RERA status?

Use the developer verification tool on the Dubai REST App.

Is my off-plan investment safe?

Yes—RERA requires escrow protection, progress reporting, and developer licensing.

How long does RERA certification take?

Typically 1–2 months including:

• Training
• Exam
• Licensing

How much does RERA certification cost (2025)?

Approx. cost range:

• DREI Training: AED 2,500–3,500
• RERA Exam: AED 500–700
• License Fee: AED 5,000–7,000

When should I renew my RERA certification?

Renew 60 days before expiry to stay compliant.

Key Takeaways

• RERA Regulates the Market: Ensures transparency, fairness, and professionalism.
• 2025 Updates: Smart Rental Index replaces the old Rent Calculator.
• Tenant Protection: Rent limits, eviction rules, and mandatory maintenance.
• Investor Safety: Escrow accounts and developer monitoring safeguard off-plan buyers.
• Professional Standards: RERA certification requires training, exams, and license renewal.