Fees Associated with Renting in Abu Dhabi

Looking to start life in Abu Dhabi? With its stunning nature, pristine beaches, world-class shopping, and renowned golf courses, it’s undoubtedly a welcoming place. To make your move easier, we’ve prepared all the information about charges you would need to pay when renting a home as a tenant, from government fees to utilities.

What is Tawtheeq?

Tawtheeq is usually the first thing our clients ask about. It is an established system launched by the Abu Dhabi government to protect the rights of both landlords and tenants. It keeps track of all rental transactions and makes it more difficult for landlords to rent out unlicensed or subdivided property to unsuspecting tenants illegally.

When will you require the Tawtheeq?

Anyone intending to rent a property in Abu Dhabi must use the Tawtheeq online portal to verify the lease contract. This contract can then be used to obtain services provided by government entities, such as water and electricity, as well as a Mawaqif residential pass.

When registering leasable properties in Tawtheeq for the first time, the landlord or owner pays the registration fee for the leasable unit. This procedure validates the tenant’s tenancy contract.

All related rental contracts must be registered through the Tawtheeq system. There are processing fees; please check here for the most up-to-date rates and charges.

Who, where, and how do you gain access to the Tawtheeq system? The best part is that it is easily accessible to anyone, at any time, via UAE Pass and Smarthub, an online internet platform developed by the Abu Dhabi Municipality.

Remember that if you need more information, you can always ask your Betterhomes agents for additional support during registration.

Municipality Fees

The tenant must pay the Municipality fees after completing the tenancy contract with Tawtheeq registration.

The total value of annual municipality fees can be paid in monthly installments with your ADDC bill. For more information, please check the Municipality fees here. 

Abu Dhabi Distribution Company Application Fees

After registering the tenancy contract with Tawtheeq, the tenants are automatically registered with the Abu Dhabi Distribution Company. In case the registration was not completed, it can be finalised over the phone. The tenant will need to pay the deposit with the first bill.

Telephone and internet service application fee

A home is not complete without the internet and a phone. To apply for these services, tenants can use either Etisalat or Du. Both service providers have multiple branches throughout the Emirate and in shopping malls. The pricing will depend on the package you choose.

Commission fees

Finding a home that meets your needs and desires can be challenging; therefore, a local broker can greatly assist. At Betterhomes, we consolidate all the properties and propose the best based on your needs. Our agents will arrange viewings, negotiate with landlords or owners about the rental price and payment terms, process all the paperwork, and provide advice. Standard broker commission fees are applied in Abu Dhabi. To check our broker's commission fees, it's best to contact our agent.

Rental Payment

The rent amount for your home in Abu Dhabi varies depending on the location and area of the property. Property owners in some communities will require a single payment, while others allow monthly payments until the rental contract expires.  Always request the most up-to-date payment plan for each property, as it may change periodically. 

Security deposit fees

A security deposit must be paid to the landlord/owner in addition to the rental contract value to cover any property damages incurred while you live in the property. It's best to check with your property advisor for the most up-to-date security fees and to determine if they are refundable.

Other fees

Other fees to consider include chiller fees, cooking gas fees, Mawaqif fees (if the building does not have an underground or designated parking area), and others that vary by property and are typically disclosed by the landlord or owners. Some buildings may require a deposit payment for chiller fees, which is uncommon in Abu Dhabi. 

If you're ready to move, we'll be happy to help.

Additional Guidance for Tenants

1. Engage accredited real estate agents or legal advisors versed in Abu Dhabi’s tenancy laws (e.g., Law No. 20 of 2006) to clarify contract terms or negotiate favourable conditions.
2. Allocate a buffer fund (5–10% of the rent) based on the Abu Dhabi Rental Index to mitigate risks from market-driven rent hikes.
3. Track rental fluctuations via Betterhomes and attend expos like Cityscape Abu Dhabi to leverage data-driven insights for renewals or relocations.

Conclusion

If you’re planning a comfortable and affordable life in Abu Dhabi, carefully consider your finances and budget. Make sure you know exactly how much you can afford and act accordingly. If you need a kickstart in finding a property, check available homes for rent with BetterHomes. Once you get that covered, focus on the aspects of your move, like setting up utilities, to make a smooth transition to your new home. With thorough preparation, you can fully enjoy what Abu Dhabi offers while managing your finances effectively.

Are you considering Abu Dhabi for your new residence? Contact us today to help you find the perfect rental property.

You may also like:

Investment Opportunities in Abu Dhabi's Residential Market

Top Locations for Off-Plan Investments in Abu Dhabi