Move-Out Checklist Dubai
Complete guide to moving out of your Dubai rental property. Follow our checklist to ensure a smooth handover and full deposit refund.
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Protect Your Security Deposit
The average security deposit in Dubai is AED 5,000-10,000. Following this checklist can save you thousands and ensure a stress-free move-out experience.
Start planning at least 4 weeks before your move-out date for best results.
4 Weeks Before Move-Out
Start planning and organizing early
- Review your tenancy contract notice period (typically 60-90 days)
- Send written notice to landlord via email and registered mail
- Request deposit refund procedures from landlord
- Start researching and booking moving companies
- Create inventory of items to move, donate, or sell
- Begin using up refrigerated and frozen foods
- Start collecting packing materials (boxes, tape, bubble wrap)
2 Weeks Before Move-Out
Handle administrative tasks and prepare property
Administrative Tasks
- Schedule DEWA disconnection (minimum 3 days notice)
- Cancel or transfer internet/TV subscriptions
- Notify building management of move-out date
- Book building permit for moving day
- Arrange elevator reservation if required
- Update mailing address with important contacts
- Transfer Ejari if moving within Dubai
Property Preparation
- Take photos/videos of property condition as evidence
- Identify needed repairs (holes, damages, stains)
- Get quotes for cleaning and handyman services
- Schedule professional cleaning if required by lease
- Test all appliances and fixtures
- Check for maintenance items in tenancy contract
- Defrost and clean refrigerator
Packing & Decluttering
- Donate or sell unwanted furniture and items
- Pack seasonal and rarely-used items first
- Label all boxes with contents and destination room
- Create essentials box for last day and first day
- Arrange special packing for fragile items
- Dispose of items that cannot be moved
- Back up important digital files
Get a free, no-obligation quote tailored to your move. We'll handle the details.
Final Week: Deep Cleaning
Clean thoroughly to ensure deposit refund
- Confirm moving company booking and timing
- Confirm building permit and elevator access
- Complete all minor repairs (nail holes, scuffs)
- Deep clean entire apartment or hire professionals
- Defrost freezer and clean refrigerator inside/out
- Clean inside all cabinets and drawers
- Vacuum/mop all floors thoroughly
- Clean windows, mirrors, and glass surfaces
- Wipe down all light switches and door handles
- Remove any adhesive hooks, picture hangers
- Clean balcony and remove any personal items
- Arrange for AC maintenance and filter cleaning
Kitchen
- Clean oven, stovetop, and exhaust hood
- Empty and clean refrigerator and freezer
- Clean inside/outside all cabinets
- Degrease countertops and backsplash
- Clean sink and polish fixtures
- Mop floor and clean baseboards
Bathrooms
- Scrub toilet, sink, shower/bathtub
- Clean tiles and remove soap scum
- Polish mirrors and chrome fixtures
- Clean inside medicine cabinets
- Wash exhaust fan covers
- Mop floor thoroughly
Living Areas
- Vacuum or mop all floors
- Clean windows inside and out
- Dust ceiling fans and light fixtures
- Wipe down walls and baseboards
- Clean AC vents and filters
- Remove scuff marks from walls
General
- Clean all light switches and outlets
- Wipe down all door frames
- Clean balcony/terrace thoroughly
- Empty all trash and recycling
- Check for items left in storage areas
- Vacuum inside all closets
Moving Day Final Tasks
Complete these before handing over keys
- Do final walkthrough before movers arrive
- Take meter readings (water and electricity) with photos
- Take final photos of empty apartment condition
- Return all keys, access cards, parking cards to landlord
- Complete and sign handover checklist with landlord/agent
- Get signed copy of handover document
- Ensure all utilities are disconnected
- Remove all personal belongings (check every closet/drawer)
- Lock all windows and doors
- Hand over parking space and remove vehicle
Tips for Getting Your Deposit Back
Document Everything
Take dated photos/videos before and after cleaning. Keep all receipts for repairs and cleaning services.
Review Your Contract
Check what cleaning and repairs are required. Know your rights regarding normal wear and tear vs. damage.
Professional Cleaning
Consider hiring professional cleaners - often cheaper than losing deposit. Get receipt as proof.
Attend Handover
Be present during final inspection. Address any issues immediately. Get signed handover form.
Normal Wear and Tear
Minor paint fading, small scuffs, carpet wear from normal use cannot be deducted from deposit.
Follow Up in Writing
If landlord delays refund (typically 14-30 days), send formal written request with evidence.
Common Reasons for Deposit Deductions
- • Carpet stains or damage beyond normal wear
- • Holes in walls from picture hanging or furniture
- • Dirty or damaged kitchen appliances
- • Bathroom mold or water damage
- • Dirty or clogged AC units and filters
- • Unpaid DEWA bills or utility charges
- • Missing keys, access cards, or parking cards
- • Broken fixtures, handles, or hardware
- • Excessive wear on doors or cabinets
- • Balcony damage or unclean conditions
Move-Out FAQs
Find answers to common questions about our moving services
Most tenancy contracts require 60-90 days written notice before the end of your lease. Check your contract for specific terms. Notice must be in writing (email and registered mail recommended) to your landlord or property management company.
Clean the property thoroughly, complete all required repairs, attend the final inspection, return all keys/access cards, and provide your bank details for refund. Document everything with photos. Landlords typically have 14-30 days to refund deposits after handover.
You must return the property in the same condition as when you moved in (excluding normal wear and tear). This includes deep cleaning kitchen, bathrooms, floors, windows, and AC units. Many tenants hire professional cleaners to ensure deposit refund.
Landlords can only deduct for actual damages beyond normal wear and tear, unpaid rent, or unpaid utility bills. They cannot charge for minor scuffs, faded paint, or carpet wear from normal use. Request itemized list of any deductions.
Failing to give proper notice may result in penalties equal to notice period rent (typically 2-3 months), which will be deducted from your security deposit. Always provide written notice within the timeframe specified in your contract.
Not unless specified in your contract or you caused damage requiring painting. Normal paint fading and minor marks are considered normal wear and tear. However, if walls have significant damage, holes, or stains, you may need to repaint.
Professional Moving Services
Let us handle the heavy lifting while you focus on cleaning and preparing your property. Get a free quote for your move.