Commercial · Published 9 November 2026 · 3 min read
By the House Of Trust Real Estate advisory team
In this article
Whether you are taking an office, a retail unit or a warehouse, the lease sets your costs and your flexibility for years. A few checks before signing can prevent expensive surprises.
Do your due diligence first
- Confirm who owns the unit and that the person leasing it to you has the right to do so. Ask for the title deed or equivalent proof.
- Match the unit to your licence. The permitted use of the space needs to fit the activity on your trade licence.
- Inspect the condition of the unit, including air conditioning, access, parking and any fit-out already in place.
- Ask about service charges and who pays them, plus any other charges such as cooling or utilities connections.
- Compare with similar units nearby, so you know whether the rent is in line with the market.
Ejari registration
In Dubai, tenancy contracts are registered in the Ejari system. Registration formally records the lease and is typically needed for other steps in setting up or renewing a business, such as trade licensing and utility connections. Make sure the lease is registered, and that the details on it match your signed contract.
Clauses worth reading twice
| Clause | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Term and renewal | How long you are committed, and how the rent is set when you renew |
| Break clause | Whether you can leave early, and what it costs |
| Rent payments | How many cheques or instalments, and what happens if one is late |
| Security deposit | How much, and the conditions for getting it back |
| Fit-out and grace period | Whether you get a rent-free period to prepare the space |
| Maintenance and repairs | Who pays for what, inside the unit and in common areas |
| Permitted use and signage | That your business activity and branding are allowed |
| Subletting and assignment | Whether you can pass the lease to someone else |
| Restoring the unit | What you must undo or repair when the lease ends |
Where you can negotiate
- A rent-free fit-out period before the lease starts counting.
- More payment instalments instead of fewer, larger ones.
- A cap on renewal increases written into the contract.
- A break option after an agreed period.
- Contribution to fit-out costs for longer commitments.
With more new commercial and residential space coming to market, tenants in some communities may find landlords more flexible. Always compare several options before you decide.
If there is a dispute
In Dubai, landlord and tenant disputes are handled through the Dubai Land Department's Rental Disputes Center. Keep copies of your contract, payment receipts and any written agreements, as they will matter if a disagreement arises. Rules differ between emirates, so check what applies to your location.
How House Of Trust can help
We match businesses with commercial space that fits their operations and budget, and help you review and negotiate terms. For legal review of the contract, we connect you with legal professionals through our partners. Speak to an advisor about your space requirements, or see our guide to company formation if you are still setting up.
Frequently asked questions
Is Ejari mandatory for a commercial lease in Dubai?
Tenancy contracts in Dubai are registered through the Ejari system, and registration is typically needed for steps such as trade licensing and utility connections. Check that your lease is registered.
Can I leave a commercial lease early?
It depends on the contract. Look for a break clause and the cost of using it before you sign.
What should I check before signing a commercial lease?
Confirm ownership, that the unit's permitted use matches your trade licence, the condition of the space, service charges, and the terms on renewal, deposit, repairs and exit.
Where do commercial landlord and tenant disputes go in Dubai?
They are handled through the Dubai Land Department's Rental Disputes Center. Keep your contract and payment records.
Sources
Speak to an investment advisor
Tell us your goal and budget, and we will give you an honest view of the options, including when waiting is the right call.