Getting your security deposit back in Dubai is mostly about two things:
- Returning the unit in the same condition you received it (normal wear & tear is OK)
- Having solid proof (photos, videos, receipts, signed handover report)
Dubai law also states that the landlord may take a security deposit — but must refund it (or the remaining balance) at the end of the lease.
Here’s a practical, real-world move-out checklist to help you get your deposit back with minimum hassle.
1) 30–90 days before move-out: paperwork first
✅ Review your Tenancy Contract / Ejari
- lease end date
- early termination clause & penalties
- who pays for painting / deep cleaning / repairs
- how the deposit is refunded and when
✅ Send written notice to landlord/agent
Even if it’s “obvious” your contract ends, written notice protects you. Dubai rules often mention a 90-day notice unless agreed otherwise.
✅ Book the final inspection (handover) early
Aim for inspection on the move-out day, with a signed report.
2) 10–14 days before: make the apartment “move-in ready”
You’re expected to hand back the unit in the same condition as received, except for ordinary wear and tear.
Quick fix checklist
- replace burnt bulbs
- patch obvious holes (especially if many)
- clean visible wall marks
- check handles/hinges/cabinets
- fix small issues: leaks, broken drain covers, loose fittings
Kitchen & bathrooms (most deposit deductions happen here)
- remove limescale from taps/shower
- deep clean grout, remove mould
- degrease extractor hood + backsplash
- clean oven/stove/microwave
- fridge clean + no smell
Balcony & windows
- wash windows
- remove sand/dust from balcony
- clean AC vents if very dusty
3) 3–7 days before: cleaning + evidence
✅ Do a professional deep clean and keep the receipt
✅ Record a full photo/video walkthrough
- each room wide shots
- close-ups of walls, floors, ceilings
- appliances working (video helps)
- bathrooms + kitchen + balcony
- meter readings if applicable
4) Utilities: DEWA move-out done right
If DEWA is under your name:
✅ Request DEWA Deactivation (Move-out)
- deactivation is typically done within 24 working hours of your chosen date/time
- the final bill is usually sent within 24 working hours after disconnection
- once you settle the final bill, the Clearance Certificate is issued automatically via email
Also close/transfer if applicable:
- Empower / chiller
- gas provider
- Etisalat / du (internet & TV)
5) Handover day: what “perfect” looks like
Bring and return everything:
- keys
- access cards
- remotes (parking/gate/AC/TV)
- parking tag/card (if provided)
✅ Get it in writing:
- signed handover report
- list of damages (if any) + cost of deductions
- deposit refund amount + timeline + method
Pro tip: ask for a line stating:
“No outstanding issues / deposit to be returned in full” (if applicable).
6) Top reasons deposits get deducted (and how to prevent it)
- Dirty bathrooms/kitchen → deep clean + receipt + photos
- Walls damaged or too many holes → patch & touch up
- Appliance issues → video proof it works
- Missing keys/cards/remotes → return complete set
- Utilities not cleared → final bill + clearance certificate
7) If your landlord delays or refuses the refund
- Ask for a breakdown of deductions (photos + invoices)
- Remind them the deposit must be refunded or returned minus justified deductions
- If you can’t resolve it amicably, Dubai has the Rental Disputes Center (RDC) process.
Hello! This is to confirm my move-out from the apartment (Unit ___, Address) on (date).
I’d like to schedule the final inspection on (date/time).
After the handover, please confirm the deposit amount and refund timeline. Thank you!