Guide

Dubai Just Launched a Travel Influencer Academy

List of UAE Public Holidays in 2025: Announced and Expected Dates

Pictured: His Highness Sheikh Mohammed at a UAE Cabinet meeting.

H.H Sheikh Mohammed Ranks 3 Best & Worst UAE Government Departments

There's a 10-Year UAE Residency Visa for Dubai Content Creators and Influencers

You Can Now Enjoy Breakfast With Penguins in Dubai

Confirmed: 2025 Will Be The 'Year of Community' in The UAE

Dubai Named As the Cleanest City in the World Once More

Where to Celebrate Chinese New Year 2025 in Dubai

Flying Drones in the UAE: Updated Guidelines For Personal Use

Classifieds

Jobs

How to Get a UAE Influencer License: Step-By-Step Guide & Requirements

Dubai Announces Pilot Launch of 4-Day Work Week For Employees

UAE Job Loss Insurance Claim Rejected? Here's Why It Could Happen

How to Claim UAE Job Loss Insurance: Eligibility and Step-by-Step Guide

Dubai Ranked Among Top 5 Cities in the World to Work In

Can I Get Fired in the UAE For My Mental Health Condition?

Dubai Dedicates AED 150 Million Government Support Fund For Influencers

How to Deal With Workplace Harassment in the UAE

The UAE's New End-of-Service Programme, Explained for Residents

Events

Win Cash Prizes Up to AED 300 For Every Kilo Lost With UAE's Weight Loss Challenge

Eid Al Fitr 2025 in the UAE: When is the Long Weekend?

Ramadan 2025 in Dubai: List of Ramadan Markets to Explore

List of UAE Public Holidays in 2025: Announced and Expected Dates

Where to Celebrate Chinese New Year 2025 in Dubai

An Enchanting Regency-Era Evening Awaits at Dubai's Bridgerton Candlelight Concert

MOTN Festival Returns For 2024: What's In Store & Where to Get Tickets

Top Tree Lighting Ceremonies to See for Christmas 2024 in Dubai

UAE National Day 2024 Fireworks in Dubai: Locations & Timings

Education

Dubai IB School's Class of 2025 Secures Over $10 Million in University Scholarships

Introducing the Executive Hospitality Programme at South View School Dubai

Where to Choose the Best EYFS Children's Nursery in Dubai Marina

Nurturing Compassionate Leaders: 8 Ways Dibber Preschools Prepares Your Child

How to Make the Transition to University Life Easier

What Are the Benefits of Academic Scholarships in Dubai?

Dubai School Inspections Will Be Skipped for One Year

Build Your Child's Education Your Way, With King's InterHigh

How to Get Your University and College Degrees Attested in the UAE

Money

UAE Unveils New Official Dirham Symbol, Inspired By the Country's Flag

6 Financial Resolutions to Make for the New Year

Meet Dr. Hassan Elhais: A Pillar of Legal Expertise for Expats in the UAE

Meet the Emirati Woman Breaking Grounds in UAE Law: Awatif Khouri

Why Teens Need Real-World Financial Education?

UAE Residents Be Wary of Food Delivery Scams

5 Signs You've Been Scammed Over the Phone, and What to Do Next

UAE Job Loss Insurance Claim Rejected? Here's Why It Could Happen

Minimum AED 5,000 Fine for Smoking Near Children in the UAE

Home

Are "Own Visa" and Freelancer Visa Domestic Workers Legal in the UAE?

Hiring a Maid in the UAE: 5 Legal Red Flags

Ask a UAE Flower Shop: Your Most Common Questions, Answered

FYI Dubai is Banning All Single Use Bags From June 1

Carrefour's 'Choose Better' Programme is Here to Reward Healthier Choices With 10x the Points

Are UAE Domestic Helpers Allowed to Work on a Trial Period and Hired After?

Pet Breeding in the UAE: Is it Allowed and Where to Find Legal Pet Breeders

Choithrams Announces Launch of All-Women Operated Store in the UAE

Where to Order Same-Day Valentine's Day Flowers in the UAE

Car

These Are Dubai's New Public Parking Fees From April 2025

How to Convert a Non-UAE Driving License in Dubai: A Complete Guide

Dubai Public Commute Timings & Road Closures for New Year's Eve

Booking Taxis in Dubai: How to Hail a Taxi Through WhatsApp

What Are the Requirements For a Car Loan in Dubai?

UAE Petrol Prices Will Increase in August 2024

Head's Up! Dubai Taxi Fares Will Increase in May 2024

UAE Announces New Fuel Prices For May 2024

Missing UAE License Plates: How to Report a Lost Plate or Reclaim Yours

Wellness

Win Cash Prizes Up to AED 300 For Every Kilo Lost With UAE's Weight Loss Challenge

9 Warning Signs for Breast Cancer

Top Tips to Have a Healthy Heart in the UAE

Discover "The New You" at Zieda's Aesthetic Clinic in Dubai

Top Ladies-Only Gyms and Fitness Centres in Dubai

Say Goodbye to Wrinkles With Mediclinic's Botox Mondays Offer

Get Expert Healthcare and Wellness Delivered to Your Doorstep in Dubai Within 30 Minutes

Top 7 Scenic UAE Jogging and Running Routes

IVF in the UAE: Unmarried Non-Muslim Couples Are Allowed to Undergo IVF

Shop

Shopping In Dubai

Best Online Shopping Sites in Dubai and UAE

An A-Z Guide to Dubai's Popular Malls

What To Wear At The Beach In Dubai

14 Hilarious Realities of Visiting Dubai Mall

Every Day is a Discount Day on THIS Deals Site

Cityland Mall Preview: Dubai's New Nature-Inspired Shopping Mall

EWmums

EWfood

ewmoda

When to pay the Agent's commission?

1029

Posts

EW OLDHAND

Latest post on 08 August 2011 - 07:33

We are due to move into a villa on 15th August (1 week from now). We are being pestered by the Agent for his commission but I feel a bit uneasy about handing it over before we move in.
My husband thinks it is fine as we already have the keys, he has given the owner the post-dated cheques and we have paid a small deposit. What do you think Ladies?
TIA

Log in to post new content in the forum.

2

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 10 August 2011 - 19:18

I have a question. If there is no contract in place between the tenant and the agent, then why should the tenant be liable for the fees. It is the landlord that had requested the services of the agent not the tenant.

crystalsindubai

713

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 10 August 2011 - 15:21

Derien, Fairycakeyumm: I am not arguing the rights or wrongs of this system (as to who is paying what) that is different from other countries; fact is, it is different. And, whilst I agree with your last sentence, Derien, I cannot see a change being implemented in the near future. There are, however, a number of new regulations (by Rera) that prohibit a landlord to kick a tenant out willy-nilly, especially if you worked with a reputable agent/agency that cares enough to insert appropriate safeguards into the agreement for [i'>both [/i'>tenant and landlord. As FFK1978 in an earlier post points out, an agent's job is finished with the rental documentation and handover, and I would reiterate my earlier argument (i.e. answer to OP's query) that he/she needs to be paid his/her fee at that time, by the party that is legally liable for that payment - under this country's rules, like it or not. <em>edited by crystalsindubai on 10/08/2011</em>

fairycakeyumm21878

2239

Posts

EW EXPERT

Latest post on 10 August 2011 - 14:02

Crystal, It's not just the UK, Australia, US etc... It's the rest of the world that operates this way. The Landlord pays an agency to rent out his property. The deposit is held by a notary rather than the landlord and it is all above board, fair and legal for all involved. Quite frankly, I am ****** sick to death of paying an agent to "find me a property" only to be kicked out the year after. I have been in Dubai for 4 years and have moved three times! Three sets of fees! If the landlord paid the fees, he would think twice about kicking people out. Totally agree ;)

1575

Posts

EW EXPERT

Latest post on 10 August 2011 - 14:01

Crystal, It's not just the UK, Australia, US etc... It's the rest of the world that operates this way. The Landlord pays an agency to rent out his property. The deposit is held by a notary rather than the landlord and it is all above board, fair and legal for all involved. Quite frankly, I am ****** sick to death of paying an agent to "find me a property" only to be kicked out the year after. I have been in Dubai for 4 years and have moved three times! Three sets of fees! If the landlord paid the fees, he would think twice about kicking people out.

crystalsindubai

713

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 10 August 2011 - 12:36

Lynn, No condescending attitude here, just brutal reality... Referring to part of your first post: [i'>"This is all well and good crystal but unfortunately the good and honest agents may not have the house that is within your budget or that you want on their listings so you're left with no choice but to deal with the shady ones.[/i'>" Most agents will have many more properties on their books than advertised, and have access to others' listings through a professional network. Work with a chosen agent, tell him/her what you are looking for - they will actually do the running for you if you give them a realistic chance - and not play them against each other (which is counterproductive anyhow as you end up bidding against yourself). How many potentital tenants actually look at any agent and see a person who is between a rock and a hard place? Or the atrocious attitudes he or she has to put up with on many occasions? How many times his/her timing is being messed up with? How surprisingly much administrative work is involved. How many kms he/she drives for an appointment where the interested party does not show up - and upon reconfirmation/inquiry is advised that the party has committed to another property, without appropriate feedback, of course! The shoe also fits the other foot, you know... But, really, we are digressing here because the OP just queried as to when the agent needs to paid! Said all I am going to say, no further comments. edited by crystalsindubai on 10/08/2011 <em>edited by crystalsindubai on 10/08/2011</em>

163

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 10 August 2011 - 11:36

Crystal - Please don't give me the condescending "its how things are done here" I completely understand how its done in this part of the world and have done so for the many years I've lived here. I'm not saying your fees weren't earned by you, if you've and your colleagues do your duty well, then of course you are due your money - not many people work for nothing - my bug bear is who actually pays you (by you I mean agents) your salary. In MY experience, I found the houses, I chased the agents, I chased for the contract etc etc. and again I add, nothing personal.

crystalsindubai

713

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 10 August 2011 - 11:02

Hi Lynn66, Perhaps very simplistic, the tenant pays the fees in this country because it is done so here. If in the UK, US, Australia (or whatever is your home country) it is handled differently you may think this is right - but you are here, not there! And what is "right" after all? It is just different. That's the reality - one that many new expats have difficulty to accept. As a property consultant, I and my colleagues have NOT messed around with clients - more often it happened the other way around. And boy, could I tell you some stories. Just my personal experience, Lynn. All I can say - these fees were hard earned!

163

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 10 August 2011 - 08:54

Perhaps, as an honest (ex)-consultant I should take exception to that statement. There are many reputable companies in town that frown upon shady deals. Work with them, you will not regret and you can look for the biggest risks of your life somewhere else. This is all well and good crystal but unfortunately the good and honest agents may not have the house that is within your budget or that you want on their listings so you're left with no choice but to deal with the shady ones. Another reason I think that the Landlord should pay for the agents fees - the tenant pays the deposit and the rent so why on earth should they have to pay the agent as well. The landlord wants a tenant he should pay for the service - what service does an agent offer - .sod all in my experience other than to not call me back and mess me around for viewings. Ok perhaps collect the rent. Well if the landlord wants the rent collecting - he should pay for that service. This is nothing personal to you Crystil but just purely personal experience.

78

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 10 August 2011 - 00:23

payment is made when you submit the post-dated cheques to the landlord, and have received your lease. No reason to delay. The agent's work was to ensure you get the appt/villa, get the keys, get the lease. Your job is to pay the person for his/her services. Simple.

crystalsindubai

713

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 09 August 2011 - 20:52

Perhaps, as an honest (ex)-consultant I should take exception to that statement. There are many reputable companies in town that frown upon shady deals. Work with them, you will not regret and you can look for the biggest risks of your life somewhere else.

1575

Posts

EW EXPERT

Latest post on 09 August 2011 - 20:43

Put yourself for a moment in the shoes of the agent, please. All documents are signed, the keys are handed over - where does he/she stand? In my "other life" as an agent I have been in this situation - once, never to let it happen again! - where the new tenant intended to back out of paying the fees, then startet negotiating. A thoroughly unpleasant situation, I recall. The agency fees should fairly be paid at the document signing, together with the cheques for the landlord. If you have gone through all the right sources (i.e. registered agents, etc.) you have nothing to fear. edited by crystalsindubai on 09/08/2011 And in all other countries, there is protection for the tenant and the LL pays the fees. Here, you are taking the biggest risk of your life

crystalsindubai

713

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 09 August 2011 - 20:41

Put yourself for a moment in the shoes of the agent, please. All documents are signed, the keys are handed over - where does he/she stand? In my "other life" as an agent I have been in this situation - once, never to let it happen again! - where the new tenant intended to back out of paying the fees, then startet negotiating. A thoroughly unpleasant situation, I recall. The agency fees should fairly be paid at the document signing, together with the cheques for the landlord. If you have gone through all the right sources (i.e. registered agents, etc.) you have nothing to fear. <em>edited by crystalsindubai on 09/08/2011</em>

AdviceSeeker13702

1100

Posts

EW OLDHAND

Latest post on 08 August 2011 - 21:38

You could just give the agent a post dated cheque dated the same as start of contract, although we have handed over commission as soon as contract is signed by both parties and keys are in hand.

1029

Posts

EW OLDHAND

Latest post on 08 August 2011 - 20:31

Thanks. SuzyDuzy, I feel the same way, but I think DH is handing the cash over a week early. Oh well, if it all goes pear shaped he will NEVER hear the end of it!!!!

498

Posts

EW EXPLORER

Latest post on 08 August 2011 - 15:35

I would pay the day the contract starts.... not before....

176

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 08 August 2011 - 15:31

i paid mine after signing the contract and handing over the cheques.

1029

Posts

EW OLDHAND

Latest post on 08 August 2011 - 12:09

Okay, thanks. I will check about Rera.

fairycakeyumm21878

2239

Posts

EW EXPERT

Latest post on 08 August 2011 - 08:14

We ve always pays ours once we have signed contracts keys handed over etc as long as contracts all signed, LL registered with Rera? Everything should be ok... Or be cheeky and tell him you'll hand it to him the day you move inn:)

Log in to post new content in the forum.

ON EXPATWOMAN TODAY

Scholarship opportunities at the Swiss international Scientific School Dubai (SISD)

Dubai IB School's Class of 2025 Secures Over $10 Million in University Scholarships

Travel influencer academy in Dubai

Dubai Just Launched a Travel Influencer Academy

Central Bank of UAE reveals new official currency symbol for the Emirati dirham

UAE Unveils New Official Dirham Symbol, Inspired By the Country's Flag

Dubai public parking fees to change from April 2025

These Are Dubai's New Public Parking Fees From April 2025

RAK Biggest Weight Loser Challenge 2025 news

Win Cash Prizes Up to AED 300 For Every Kilo Lost With UAE's Weight Loss Challenge

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed announces 3 best UAE government departments

Pictured: His Highness Sheikh Mohammed at a UAE Cabinet meeting.

H.H Sheikh Mohammed Ranks 3 Best & Worst UAE Government Departments

New 10-Year UAE Residency Visa for Dubai Content Creators and Influencers

There's a 10-Year UAE Residency Visa for Dubai Content Creators and Influencers

UAE president announces 2025 will be the 'Year of Community' in the emirates

Confirmed: 2025 Will Be The 'Year of Community' in The UAE

Breakfast with penguins at Ski Dubai Mall of the Emirates

You Can Now Enjoy Breakfast With Penguins in Dubai

How to convert another country's drivers license in Dubai

How to Convert a Non-UAE Driving License in Dubai: A Complete Guide

Registrations open for EYFS curriculum Willow Children's Nursery in Dubai

Where to Choose the Best EYFS Children's Nursery in Dubai Marina

List of confirmed UAE public holidays in 2025

List of UAE Public Holidays in 2025: Announced and Expected Dates

Outdoor cinemas in Dubai for the winter season 2024

The Best Outdoor Cinemas in Dubai to See Open-Air Movies This Winter

Executive Hospitality Programme at South View School in Dubai

Introducing the Executive Hospitality Programme at South View School Dubai

Expat legal consultants in the UAE | Dr. Hassan Elhais

Meet Dr. Hassan Elhais: A Pillar of Legal Expertise for Expats in the UAE

Saray Spa promotions at JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai

This Luxury Dubai Spa Has Some of the Very Best Breaks To Escape To

A Complete Guide How to Get an Influencer License in Dubai and UAE

How to Get a UAE Influencer License: Step-By-Step Guide & Requirements

UAE Emirati Lawyer Awatif Khouri in Dubai and Abu Dhabi

Meet the Emirati Woman Breaking Grounds in UAE Law: Awatif Khouri

Dubai's gravity-driven tunnel to reduce flood risks by 700%

Pictured: Flooded roads from the record-breaking storm that hit Dubai in April 2024.

Dubai Flood Risk to Be Cut Down by 700% With New Tunnel

8 Beauty Treatments in Dubai for busy moms

8 Beauty Treatments in Dubai: Self-Care Recommendations for Busy Moms

Mashreq NEO NXT Account | Why Kids and Teens Need Financial Education

Why Teens Need Real-World Financial Education?

E-scooters are no longer banned on the Dubai Metro stations and trains

RTA Finally Lifts E-Scooter Ban From Dubai Metro

Spa packages at Saray Spa in JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai

Step Into the Ultimate Relaxation Bliss With Saray Spa's Pampering Packages

How to book Dubai taxi through WhatsApp

Booking Taxis in Dubai: How to Hail a Taxi Through WhatsApp

Experience Extended Stays and Special Savings at Le Meridien Al Aqah Beach Resort UAE

Soak Up the Summer With the Ultimate UAE Staycation Special

RTA Dubai flying taxi official launch date

Image credit: Joby Aviation.

RTA Finally Confirms Launch Date of Dubai's Flying Taxis

Region's first ever baseball park to open in the UAE

First-Ever Baseball Park in the Middle East Will Be Opening in the UAE

Are "own visa" Domestic Workers legal in the UAE?

Are "Own Visa" and Freelancer Visa Domestic Workers Legal in the UAE?

Where to See Animals in the Wild in the UAE

Where to See Animals in the Wild in the UAE

UAE food delivery scam news

UAE Residents Be Wary of Food Delivery Scams

How to get a car loan in Dubai and UAE

What Are the Requirements For a Car Loan in Dubai?

Dubai pilot launches 4-day work week for government employees

Dubai Announces Pilot Launch of 4-Day Work Week For Employees

Health insurance will be included in UAE tourist visa

Visitors Will Soon Get Health Insurance With Their UAE Tourist Visas