The AED 300 Renewal Fee Trick: What to Sign and What to Refuse

You found a landlord who agreed to renew at the existing rent. You are ready to sign. The agent presents the renewal contract — plus an "addendum" with AED 2,500 of fees you did not see coming. This is the trick.

What Is Legitimate

• Ejari renewal fee — small, typically AED 300, to update the registration.
• DEWA renewal — handled separately, no landlord-related fee.
• Documentation processing — minor.

If the total is around AED 300, you are in normal territory.

What Is Not

• "Renewal commission" to the estate agent — fully a landlord expense if the landlord retained the agent.
• "Administrative fees" in the thousands — refuse or itemise.
• Repeat security deposit — your existing deposit carries over to the renewal.
• "Late filing" charges if the landlord delayed — push back; not your obligation.

How to Push Back Without Drama

1. Ask for the addendum line items to be explained. Most agents back off when asked to itemise.
2. Request the renewal contract without the addendum. The main contract should stand on its own.
3. If the agent insists, propose to deal with the landlord directly for the renewal. Many landlords prefer this — they keep more of the rent.
4. If the landlord backs the agent\'s position, negotiate the fee down to AED 300 and have the addendum specify that single amount.

Documenting the Renewal

• Keep a signed copy of the renewal contract and the addendum.
• Make sure the addendum states the total fee in writing, in numerals and words.
• Pay by transfer with a clear reference; avoid cash for these fees.

If You Already Paid

If you already paid an excessive renewal fee and feel misled, you can dispute it via RDC alongside any other rent-related claim. The amount is usually small enough that most tenants chalk it up to experience — but it is recoverable in a broader case.

Related Reading

• How to Negotiate Your Rent Renewal
• Rent Payment Methods in Dubai
• Ejari Registration: Everything You Need to Know