If you are new to Abu Dhabi and are looking for an apartment or villa, it is critical that you familiarise yourself with the tenancy rules and processes.
Whether you want a studio apartment or a villa, here’s everything you need to know about renting in Abu Dhabi, from lease contracts to popular residential districts to consider.
How does one look for a home in Abu Dhabi?
If you’re looking for a new house, according to TAMM, Abu Dhabi’s official government services portal, you can browse for available housing in local publications and periodicals, as well as through registered brokers and real estate agents. Property listings can also be found at www.getthat.com/property/rent.
Commission
Some brokers may charge a commission fee of up to 5% of the total rent, but they are not permitted to charge both the landlord and the renter a commission.
Rent Payment
Rent charges vary depending on the property’s location and neighborhood. Tenants can pay their rent in one cash payment or in installments as negotiated by the landlord.
Required Documents
Here is the paperwork you must supply if you are renting for the first time in Abu Dhabi:
- a copy of your passport
- Residency visa
- Emirates Identification Card
- Cheques — the number of cheques is determined by the payment method agreed upon, such as one or multiple payments.
Lease Contract
You must sign a lease agreement with the landlord once you have decided on the rent value and the residential unit.
Contract Attestation
The lease agreement must be attested using ‘Tawtheeq,’ a lease attestation service. Landlords can use the Abu Dhabi City Municipality’s website or Customer Service Centers to register lease contracts in ‘Tawtheeq.’
Obtaining any services provided by government entities, such as water and electricity, internet, Mawaqif residence pass, and other services, requires having the contract confirmed through Tawtheeq.
Municipality Charges
After the leasing contract has been recorded, 5% of the annual rent will be calculated and divided for a period of 12 months. The amount will be added to the monthly water and electricity bill.
Lease Contract Renewal or Cancellation
To prevent any fines, whether you want to renew your contract or not, you must notify the landlord before the term expires, which is normally two months or as stipulated in the contract.
Rental Disputes
The parties can go to the Rent Dispute Settlement Committee if they disagree with any of the contract’s terms, such as the insurance deposit return or the circumstances of the rented premises.
How does one get a water and electricity connection in Abu Dhabi?
Tenants can obtain a water and electricity account at the nearest branch of Abu Dhabi Distribution Company (ADDC) or Al Ain Distribution Company after registering their rent contract through ‘Tawtheeq.’ A Dh1,000 insurance deposit is required of all tenants.
How does one set up an internet and telephone connection in Abu Dhabi?
You must visit one of the service providers, Emirates Telecommunications Corporation (Etisalat) or Emirates Integrated Telecommunications Company, to have a telephone connection and internet services installed in your new home (du).
Mawaqif Residential Pass
The Integrated Transport Authority (ITC) of Abu Dhabi issues Mawaqif annual residential licenses, which allow residents to park in designated spaces in specific regions of Abu Dhabi.
Popular residential areas in Abu Dhabi
The Tamm website also lists the following popular residential areas in Abu Dhabi:
Saadiyat Island
Saadiyat Island has a wide range of housing possibilities, from tiny apartments to numerous units and villas. It is only minutes from the center of Abu Dhabi and 20 minutes from Abu Dhabi International Airport, with a total area of 27 square kilometers.
The island is home to the world’s greatest collection of world-class cultural institutions, including the Zayed National Museum, the Louvre Abu Dhabi, and the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi.
Al Reem Island
Al Reem Island, located 600 meters off the shore of Abu Dhabi Island, is a natural residential and commercial island. The island is one of the first places in the country where foreigners can buy property. Schools, medical clinics, shopping malls, restaurants, golf courses, hotels, resorts, parks, and beaches are all located on the island.
Al Raha Beach
Al Raha is on the Abu Dhabi Highway, directly across from Al Raha Beach. On an area of approximately one million square meters, the region provides a peaceful environment for people. Apartments with three bedrooms to luxury homes with five bedrooms are available. The apartments are decorated in a traditional Arabian manner with modern conveniences.
Al-Mariya Island
Al Mariya is situated between Abu Dhabi City’s commercial marketplaces and Al Reem Island’s new cultural area on the one hand, and Saadiyat Island’s new cultural area on the other. Commercial, commerce, entertainment, healthcare, residential, and hotel facilities are all available on the island.
Tourist Club Area
This neighborhood is highlighted by its proximity to the renowned Al-Mina neighborhood and the corniche, both of which have a plethora of restaurants and stores. In comparison to other places, the rental rates are comparatively modest.
Corniche
The Corniche is right across from Abu Dhabi’s major beach. The neighborhood is close to many of the city’s bustling hotspots and has amazing beach views. It contains a variety of residential units, from studios to apartments.
Al Khalidiya
Khalidiya is one of Abu Dhabi’s most dynamic residential neighborhoods, located near the city center and the Abu Dhabi Corniche. There are several businesses and restaurants in the area, and residential units ranging from studios to villas.
Khalifa City
Khalifa City, located a short distance from the city center, is home to serene gardens, big mansions, and restaurants. It contains a variety of residential units, including studios, apartments, and villas.
Al Reef
Al Reef is near Al Raha beach and Abu Dhabi International Airport, on the route to Al Shahama and adjacent to the Abu Dhabi-Dubai Highway, and offers a variety of residential possibilities.