Dubai's New Flexi Rent Scheme Allows Monthly Rent Payments

A new Flexi Rent scheme introduced by the Dubai Land Department will allow tenants to pay annual rents in monthly instalments, offering an alternative to the one- or two-cheque system traditionally used in the emirate.

The programme applies to both new and renewed tenancy contracts, with officials stating that rents will remain unchanged regardless of whether they are paid monthly or through one or two cheques. Tenants will also be able to make payments by debit or credit card under agreements reached with landlords.

The Dubai Land Department is rolling out the initiative in partnership with 12 real estate companies, including Deyaar, Wasl, Dubai Investment Real Estate and Driven Properties. Other participants include SBK Real Estate, Al Showaib, Rocky Real Estate, SRG Properties, Modern Real Estate, Harbor Real Estate and Dubai World Real Estate.

According to officials, penalties for bounced cheques will be waived under the scheme, while participating companies are offering rental incentives, discounts and promotional packages aimed at attracting new tenants.

The department said the pilot programme will be monitored using a set of key performance indicators, including the number of units enrolled, contracts signed under the Flexi Rent model, occupancy rates, payment compliance levels, uptake of flexible payment options and the number of incentives offered to tenants.