Key Differences Between Rental Systems and Document Verification Services

With the rapid urban and population growth in the UAE, it has become essential to establish a legal framework governing the relationship between landlords and tenants, ensuring the rights and responsibilities of both parties. As a result, each emirate has developed its own system for documenting rental agreements: Dubai launched the "Ejari" system, while Abu Dhabi adopted the "Tawtheeq" system. Although both systems aim to regulate the rental market and enhance transparency, they differ significantly in procedures, supervising authorities, and registration requirements. This article explores the key differences between Ejari and Tawtheeq, highlighting their importance in protecting rights and streamlining real estate transactions.

What Is the Difference Between Ejari and Tawtheeq?

The "Ejari" system in Dubai and the "Tawtheeq" system in Abu Dhabi are government platforms designed to regulate and formalize rental contracts between landlords and tenants. However, the primary distinction lies in the overseeing authority and geographic jurisdiction: Ejari is managed by the Dubai Land Department, whereas Tawtheeq is administered by the Abu Dhabi Municipality and Transport Authority.

Both systems require rental contracts to be registered to secure legal rights and access essential services such as electricity and water. However, the registration process and procedures vary according to each emirate’s specific policies.

Below is a detailed comparison of the main differences between Ejari and Tawtheeq:

Objectives

Ejari in Dubai and Tawtheeq in Abu Dhabi are government initiatives aimed at regulating the rental market across the UAE. While both systems share common goals—protecting the landlord-tenant relationship and formalizing contracts—each has additional objectives tailored to the unique characteristics and regulatory needs of its respective emirate. Key comparisons in terms of objectives are outlined below:

• Ejari
  • Digitally manage rental contracts efficiently and effectively
  • Issue official, certified rental contracts and payment receipts
  • Store property and tenant data, with automatic alerts
  • Enable tenants or landlords to easily file legal claims through the Dispute Resolution Center
• Tawtheeq
  • Regulate the entire real estate market and maintain a precise central database
  • Strengthen collaboration between the public and private sectors for more integrated services
  • Provide accurate statistics and reports to support relevant authorities
  • Contribute to community safety and stability

Documents and Requirements

To complete the registration of a rental contract under either the Ejari or Tawtheeq system and create a personal account, applicants must submit specific documents. These requirements highlight fundamental differences in procedures and documentation needed for each platform.

• Ejari
  • UAE national ID or residence permit number for citizens and residents
  • Valid passport copy for non-resident foreigners
  • Dubai Land Department registration number for the property owner
  • Official power of attorney from the owner or court-appointed guardianship
• Tawtheeq
  • Specific account opening form
  • Copy of the property owner’s passport
  • Copy of the UAE national ID card
  • Copy of the family book (Iqama) for UAE citizen owners
  • Copy of the legal authorization issued by the property owner to their representative
  • Copy of the commercial license
  • Copy of the notarized signature of the property owner

Registration Process

Here is a breakdown of the registration procedures for both Ejari and Tawtheeq:

• Ejari
  • Prepare all required documents
  • Register via the Dubai Rest app, the official department website, or authorized printing centers
  • Enter property and tenant details and upload necessary documents
  • Pay government fees
  • Receive an official Ejari contract
• Tawtheeq
  • Prepare all required documents
  • Access the Tamim platform
  • Select the "Rental Contract Certification" service
  • Create an account or log in as an existing user
  • Fill in contract details and upload documents
  • Pay fees electronically and receive the contract

Fees

Below are the fee details for registering and renewing rental contracts under each system:

• Ejari
  • Through the Dubai Rest app or official portal
    • AED 100 for rental contract registration
    • AED 10 knowledge fee
    • AED 10 innovation fee
  • Through real estate service centers
    • AED 120, plus AED 95 service partner fees and VAT on those fees
• Tawtheeq
  • First-time rental property registration: AED 1,000
  • New rental contract issuance (for less than 4 years): AED 100 + account activation
  • Renewal of Tawtheeq contract by the owner: AED 100
  • Amendment or cancellation before expiry: AED 50
  • New rental contract issuance (for more than 4 years): 1% of the first year’s value + account activation

This concludes our overview of the differences between Ejari and Tawtheeq, aiming to save you time and effort. Explore Tawtheeq Abu Dhabi, your trusted real estate guide in the capital, and learn more about Ejari in Dubai.

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