Moving out of a rented apartment or villa in Dubai involves far more than simply packing your bags and returning keys. Navigating government utility disconnections, legal Ejari cancellations, landlord inspections, and security deposit recovery requires a clear timeline.
This master guide outlines every official step required to smoothly hand over your property, settle utility accounts, and avoid costly delays or legal disputes.
Phase 1: 90 to 60 Days Before Moving Out
Under RERA regulations, tenants should inform their landlord or property management company in writing (via email or written letter) at least 90 days prior to lease expiry if they do not intend to renew.
Check your original lease contract regarding painting, deep cleaning requirements, and expected condition upon move-out to avoid deposit deductions later.
Phase 2: 7 to 10 Days Before Move-Out (DEWA & Permits)
As your move-out date approaches, manage government utility procedures online via official portals or mobile apps:
Apply online via the DEWA website or mobile app under 'Deactivation of Electricity/Water (Move-Out)':
- Select your moving-out date and provide an active mobile number.
- Specify your deposit refund method (Bank Transfer / IBAN, Western Union, or transfer to a new DEWA account).
- Pay disconnection fees (AED 100 for small meters / AED 300 for large meters + Knowledge/Innovation fees).
- DEWA takes a final meter reading within 24 working hours, deducts outstanding final consumption charges from your held deposit (AED 2,000 apartment / AED 4,000 villa), and issues the Final Green Bill.
Major master developers (Emaar, Nakheel, DAMAC, Dubai Properties) require a Move-Out Permit before moving trucks can enter the community. Apply 3–5 days early through the developer's portal by uploading your passport, Emirates ID, and DEWA clearance.
Phase 3: Property Restoration & Handover Inspection
To secure your full security deposit refund (5% of annual rent), the unit must be restored to its original state (fair wear and tear excepted):
- Repainting: Paint the walls back to neutral white or off-white if you painted feature walls or damaged plasterwork.
- Deep Cleaning: Book a specialized move-out deep cleaning crew to scrub kitchen grease, descale bathroom tiles, and clean AC vent grilles.
- Handyman Repairs: Patch wall drill holes, replace blown light bulbs, and fix minor cabinet or door alignment issues.
Phase 4: Official Ejari Cancellation
Once you vacate the property and settle final accounts, the Ejari contract must be formally cancelled so the landlord can re-rent the property and you can register Ejari for your new home.
Required Documents: Emirates ID, Tenancy Contract, DEWA Final Green Bill & Clearance, and Landlord NOC / Letter.
How to Cancel: Submit free via the Dubai REST App / DLD Portal, or visit a Real Estate Trustee Centre (approx. AED 40 + VAT fee).
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