The Complete Dubai Apartment Moving Checklist (Tenant's Guide)
Step-by-step checklist for moving out of a Dubai apartment — from notifying your landlord to getting your security deposit back.
Moving out of a Dubai apartment involves more steps than just packing boxes. Between DEWA, building management, your landlord, and the movers, there's a lot to coordinate. This checklist covers everything so nothing slips through the cracks.
6 Weeks Before Moving
Give formal notice to your landlord UAE tenancy law typically requires 90 days' written notice for non-renewal. Even if your contract allows less, send a formal notice by registered mail or email to have a paper trail.
Get an NOC from your building Most Dubai apartment buildings require a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the building management before a move-out. Apply early — some buildings take 5–7 working days to issue it.
Book your moving company early End-of-month and weekend slots fill up fast. Get quotes from at least two movers and confirm your booking in writing. Share videos of your flat so they can give an accurate fixed price.
2–3 Weeks Before Moving
Transfer DEWA to your new address Visit dewa.gov.ae or the DEWA app to schedule disconnection at your current address and connection at the new one. You'll need your DEWA account number and the new address.
Notify other utilities and services
- Internet provider (Etisalat/du) — transfer or cancel
- Du/Etisalat home broadband — requires 30 days' notice for cancellation
- Gym membership, subscriptions, delivery apps — update your address
Start packing non-essentials Books, decorative items, off-season clothes and rarely used items can be boxed up weeks before the move. Label every box with the room it belongs to at the new home — not just "kitchen" but "kitchen – pots and pans".
Take photos of your apartment condition Document the current state of every room, especially any existing damage. This protects your security deposit — the landlord cannot hold you responsible for pre-existing marks or cracks.
1 Week Before Moving
Confirm your building lift booking Most Dubai towers require you to book the service lift in advance. Some charge AED 150–500 for the booking. Confirm the time slot with your mover.
Confirm truck size with your mover Make sure the truck matches your volume. A 1-bedroom typically needs a 3-ton truck, a 2-bed needs a 5-ton, and a 3-bed needs a 10-ton. Ask your mover to confirm.
Pack an essentials bag Passport, Emirates ID, tenancy contract, chargers, medication and a change of clothes should travel with you — not in the moving truck.
Defrost your fridge Run it with an empty interior for at least 24 hours before the move. A wet fridge causes damage during transport and movers will charge extra for cleaning if it drips.
Moving Day
Be present for the full move You need to direct movers on what goes where — especially at the new home. Having someone at each end of the move helps.
Protect the building Movers should bring floor protection (cardboard or film) for the lift and corridors. If they don't, ask them to — otherwise you may be charged by the building for damage.
Check your flat one final time Walk every room, check every cupboard, check the balcony. Don't forget:
- Items in storage rooms
- Items on top of high cupboards
- Parking spaces and building storage
Read the utility meters before leaving Take photos of your DEWA meter and water meter readings with a timestamp. This protects you from being billed for usage after your move-out date.
After Moving
Return your building access cards and car park fobs Most buildings deduct unreturned items from your security deposit.
Request a final inspection with your landlord Walk through the empty flat together and agree on its condition in writing. Any deductions from your deposit should be itemised and justified.
Follow up your DEWA final bill DEWA issues a final bill after disconnection. Pay it promptly — any outstanding balance stays on your account.
Update your Emirates ID address Visit an ICA service centre or use the ICA smart app to update your residential address. Technically required within 30 days of moving.
Moving Day Checklist (Quick Reference)
- NOC collected from building management
- Lift booking confirmed for move-out time
- Moving truck and crew confirmed for correct time
- Fridge defrosted and dry
- Essentials bag packed and with you
- Flat photos taken (empty, at end of tenancy)
- Meter readings photographed
- All access cards and keys counted and ready to return
Need a Mover for Your Dubai Apartment?
Samadaira Movers has handled thousands of apartment moves across Dubai — from studio flats in JLT to large 3-bedrooms in Downtown. We know the building rules, the lift booking process and exactly how to get your move done without a scratch on the walls.
WhatsApp us your flat details on 054 722 2401 and we'll send a fixed all-inclusive quote in under 5 minutes.