What documents are required to rent office in Dubai
Leasing commercial real estate in Dubai is a strictly regulated process that requires a specific set of documents. The core package consists of legal papers confirming your company’s status and the authority of the signatory. A standard set includes the company’s trade license issued by the DED or a relevant free zone (such as DMCC, DIFC), the passports and visas of the shareholders, and Emirates IDs. If the lease agreement is signed by someone other than the company owner, an original notarized Power of Attorney (POA) will also be required.
Preparing documents in advance is the key to a smooth and successful transaction. Most landlords and management companies request them to conduct due diligence before accepting a deposit. This is a standard practice aimed at minimizing risks and complying with Anti-Money Laundering (AML) regulations.
Basic document package for legal entities
This is the minimum set landlords or agencies will request to confirm the legitimacy of your business:
- Trade License – a valid license issued by the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED) or a free zone authority (DMCC, DIFC, JAFZA, etc.). The listed activity must correspond to the intended office use.
- Constitutional Documents – in some cases, the landlord may request a Certificate of Incorporation and a Memorandum of Association (MOA), which provide details about shareholders, capital structure, and company setup.
- Power of Attorney (POA) – required if the lease is signed by an authorized representative (e.g., director or manager) instead of the company owner. The original notarized document must confirm signing authority.
- Passports of shareholders and/or signatory.
- Emirates IDs of all shareholders and the authorized signatory.
Once your application is approved and the lease agreement (Tenancy Contract) is signed, you will need an additional set of documents to register the lease in the Ejari system.
Documents for Ejari registration
Ejari is the mandatory government system for registering all lease agreements in Dubai. Without an Ejari certificate, you cannot connect utilities (DEWA) or take cases to the Rental Dispute Center (RDC).
The package typically includes:
- Original signed lease agreement
- Copy of the tenant’s trade license
- Copy of the landlord’s or management company’s license
- Copies of passports and visas of signatories from both parties
- Floor plan of the premises (if required)
- Payment receipt for the Ejari registration fee (approx. AED 210)
Recommendations and Tips
- Start early – ensure all company documents are valid and POAs are properly issued. Restoring expired or missing documents can take weeks.
- Check details carefully – company names and representative details must match across all documents. Any discrepancy may lead to rejection of the Ejari application.
- Consult professionals – if your business structure involves foreign beneficiaries, offshore jurisdictions, or complex shareholding layers, hire a local lawyer or experienced broker to avoid legal mistakes.
- Verify the landlord – request copies of the landlord’s license and passport or that of the management company. This ensures transparency and protects you from fraud.
Proper document preparation is not a bureaucratic formality, but the foundation of stable and legally secure business operations in Dubai. Taking this stage seriously will save both time and money, and safeguard your company against unnecessary risks.
