Promoting transparency and convenience, tenancy systems across the UAE are based on seamless processes. The effective implementation of rules safeguards the rights of both tenants and landlords. In major emirates, such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi, there are holistic tenancy frameworks in the form of Ejari and Tawtheeq, respectively. That said, the set of tenancy rules may differ for each of the two emirates. To understand more, let’s compare Ejari vs Tawtheeq and learn about the key differences between these tenancy contracts.
What is Ejari and Tawtheeq in the UAE?
When renting a property in Dubai or Abu Dhabi, renters must be aware of the local tenancy rule. Ejari translates to ‘my rent’ in English. It is a system introduced by the Real Estate Regulation Authority (RERA) for managing tenant-landlord relationships in Dubai.
Similarly, the Abu Dhabi Municipality has a system in place called Tawtheeq. Tawtheeq is the Arabic word for ‘attestation’. All the tenancy agreements in the capital are authorised under the Tawtheeq framework.
Difference Between Ejari and Tawtheeq Importance
As per Law No. 26 of 2007, tenancy contract registration with Ejari is mandatory for its validity. Ejari registration is also necessary for tenants looking to file a rental dispute in Dubai. Moreover, when applying for utility connections an Ejari number of the residence is required. This means consumers cannot apply for a new DEWA connection if the rental property isn’t registered with Ejari.
Tawtheeq, on the other hand, is an attestation framework for the tenancy contract. It is mandatory for the tenancy contract attestation in Abu Dhabi. The Rental Dispute Settlement Committee only accepts applications if the tenancy contract has been registered under Tawtheeq. Moreover, in a broader perspective, Tawtheeq covers a host of matters to maintain a good landlord-and-tenant relationship.
Main Difference Between Ejari and Tawtheeq Contract Registration
First, let’s take a look at the Ejari registration process and document requirements.
- Submission of Emirates ID, passport copy and other essential documents
- Visiting an Ejari typing centre for rental contract registration
- Mandatory training session by RERA
- Visiting Dubai Land Department for process completion
- Ejari activation in two days
- For more process details and online registration, visit DLD’s website
Tawtheeq in Abu Dhabi has a slightly different process. Let’s have a look.
- Landlord approval to initiate the Tawtheeq request
- Submission of Emirates ID, passport copy and other essential documents
- Tawtheeq application submission for municipality approval
- Fee payment for the issuance of tenancy contract
- Tawtheeq is issued around 1-3 days after the completion of the registration process
Ejari vs Tawtheeq Contract: Key Things to Know
Whether you have an Ejari or Tawtheeq contract, here are some key things about the rights of tenants in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
Property Maintenance
According to Article 16 of the UAE Law 2007, landlords are responsible for the maintenance of property. This clause is the same for both Tawtheeq and Ejari contracts. It is important to be aware of the maintenance responsibility when renting a property in Abu Dhabi and Dubai to avoid any unnecessary disputes down the road.
Rental Increase
According to tenancy laws in Abu Dhabi, landlords in the capital can increase 5% rent once a year. The Tawtheeq contract outlines the same for tenants. However, the rule of rental increase differs from emirate to emirate. Tenants must be informed two months before the rental increment.
Similarly, landlords can increase rent in Dubai by anywhere between 5 to 15%. A host of essential factors, such as the average rental value determine the percentage increase. The RERA rental index calculator comes in handy in such crucial tenancy matters.
Eviction Notice
In both Tawtheeq and Ejari, a certain notice period is essential for lawful tenant eviction. According to Law 26 of 2007, at least a 30-day notice in writing is essential for tenant eviction. However, the terms and conditions may vary from case to case. Here are some common cases of the rightful eviction of tenants in Dubai.
FAQs
What is Ejari called in Abu Dhabi?
The alternative to Ejari is Tawtheeq in Abu Dhabi. Both are government-backed tenancy contract attestation services for a harmonious renter-landlord relationship.
Is Tawtheeq mandatory in Abu Dhabi?
Yes, Tawtheeq registration is mandatory in Abu Dhabi. Even to apply for or manage the Sharjah Electricity Water & Gas Authority (SEWA) connections, tenants would need Tawtheeq verification.
Is Ejari only for tenants?
No, the framework of Ejari in Dubai encompasses guidelines and rules for both tenants and landlords. Even property managers benefit from it. Moreover, here are some essential property management tips.
Here we have compared Tawtheeq vs Ejari in detail. The aforementioned information can be useful for residential or commercial tenancy contract attestation in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
To start the property hunt in your desired emirate, check the available options online. Explore these rental properties in the UAE and pick the one that fits your requirements.
For more information on the differences between Ejari and Tawtheeq, keep reading dubizzle’s property blog.
