Moving to the UAE feels a bit like hitting refresh on life, with better weather, bigger brunches, and some of the most stunning locations in the world. There’s the excitement of new routines and new neighbourhoods you’ve only ever caught glimpses of on TikTok. But if you’re a newcomer without a tenancy contract in your name, proving where you live can get tricky.
Here at Remitly, a lot of us know exactly how that feels. You might be staying with family or starting in a hotel or company housing. The UAE sees this all the time, too, and there are legitimate alternatives to proving your address. This guide will walk you through how to handle this obstacle, so you can focus on enjoying your new chapter in the UAE.
Why does proof of residence matter in the UAE?
Proving your address in the UAE isn’t just paperwork for the sake of paperwork, even though those of us who have moved abroad know it can feel that way. Banks, government platforms, and service providers need a verified address to confirm who you are and link you to essential services.
A confirmed address helps institutions approve Emirates ID applications, activate UAE Pass accounts, verify your identity under Know Your Customer (KYC) rules, and check eligibility for utilities or telecom services. Without it, you can hit delays with different everyday services, as those systems depend on knowing exactly where residents are based.
Why Ejari is the VIP pass of address proof
Ejari in Dubai, and Tawtheeq in Abu Dhabi, is basically the official stamp that says, “Yes, this person actually lives here.” It’s the standard proof, and most institutions recognise it instantly.
Some services in the UAE, like Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) setup, internet installation, or bank account activation, are faster to set up when your address appears in those systems.
However, the UAE knows real-world housing situations aren’t always straightforward. Lots of newcomers experience different accommodation arrangements while they get settled. So if you haven’t signed a lease yet, you’re not doing anything unusual. There are recognised alternatives, and plenty of people go through this exact stage when they first arrive.
Everyday situations when you’ll need proof of address
From opening a bank account to connecting to the internet, proof of residence pops up in the UAE more often than “Where are you from?” at a Friday brunch.
Opening a personal bank account
Banks want to know you’re a real person living at a real address before they trust you with an account. If you’re not in your own place yet, don’t panic. Banks often accept documents like a company housing letter, a family sponsorship package, or even a hotel residency letter, depending on the situation. Some institutions are stricter than others, so asking ahead of time can save you from any awkward moments.
Sponsoring family members for visas
Bringing your relative to the UAE is a big milestone, but it also comes with paperwork, including proof of where you live. Authorities want to make sure your dependents are linked to a valid address.
Even if you’re staying with family or in company accommodation for now, you can still prove your residence using the main tenant’s documents or a company letter. It’s not uncommon, and many immigrants go through this stage while transitioning into their own space.
Applying for a driving licence
To apply for or convert a licence, you’ll need your Emirates ID. Even without a lease, you can still start driving around the UAE.
Connecting internet or phone services
Data is the lifeline of modern life. And before any service provider can hook you up with Wi-Fi, they’ll want proof of address. If you’re still sofa-hopping or waiting for your name to appear on a tenancy contract, you don’t need to worry.
Hotel letters, company housing letters, or shared accommodation proof may help in the short-term, depending on where you’re staying. It might not always feel straightforward, but it’s definitely possible.
SIM packages are generally easier to acquire, as they often don’t require proof of address, just valid ID.
The common challenges newcomers face
The early days in the UAE can feel like a whirlwind of new systems and new rules. But every expat you meet has gone through the same learning curve, so you’re definitely not navigating this alone.
Short-term or temporary housing
Most newcomers in the UAE arrive before they’ve chosen their long-term home. Maybe you’re in a serviced apartment, sharing with friends, or staying with family while you figure out how to set up your housing.
It’s practical and affordable, but the downside is that you might not have instant access to official paperwork. That can be frustrating when banks and agencies ask for a tenancy contract you don’t have yet, but it’s just a temporary phase rather than a roadblock.
The money and time realities of getting set up
Some parts of setting up life in a new country come with unavoidable costs and waiting periods. Attesting marriage or birth certificates, translating documents, or registering tenancy details can all take time and money. And government processing timelines also vary depending on the service and the emirate.
Planning for these realities early makes a big difference. It allows you to prioritise urgent tasks like banking and visas first, while treating the rest as part of a gradual setup rather than a one-day checklist.
Ways to prove your residence when you don’t have a lease
Whichever short-term accommodation you’re in, there are recognised ways to prove your address without an Ejari in your own name.
Living with a spouse or family member
If you’re living with a close family member, you can lean on their tenancy contract instead of getting your own straight away. You’ll usually need copies of their Ejari or Tawtheeq, their Emirates ID and passport, and something that proves the relationship, like a marriage certificate or birth certificate.
A No Objection Certificate, which is a letter confirming you can live with them, can tie everything together. It’s surprisingly common, and once you know which documents to gather, it’s a lot less daunting than it sounds.
Getting proof from employer-provided housing
Company accommodation is extremely normal here. Teachers, nurses, hospitality workers, engineers, pilots, and many others start out this way. If your employer provides housing, you don’t need your own lease at all. Instead, ask HR for a stamped letter that confirms you live in company housing and lists the address.
This letter is often enough for banks and utilities, though occasionally they might ask for the company’s trade licence too. Either way, it’s a straightforward route if your job includes housing.
Proving your address in shared accommodation
Sharing a flat is a rite of passage for a lot of newcomers in the UAE, especially when you’re still figuring out where you want to live long-term. If the tenancy isn’t in your name, you might need a copy of the leaseholder’s Ejari or Tawtheeq, their Emirates ID, and a short letter confirming that you live with them. Utility bills can sometimes help your case if you contribute and can show proof.
Hotel or serviced apartment stays
A huge number of newcomers spend their first weeks or months in hotel apartments. Hotels can issue a stamped residency letter confirming your stay, and when you pair that with your passport or Emirates ID application, many banks and service providers accept it. This option is especially useful if you arrived for work and haven’t chosen a long-term rental yet.
Embassy or consulate letters
Sometimes newcomers end up in housing situations that don’t tick the usual boxes, like staying with extended family or temporary accommodation through community networks. In these cases, your embassy or consulate may be able to verify your address. Not every institution accepts this route, so it’s always smart to check first, but it can be a last-resort support if your living situation doesn’t fit neatly into the usual categories.
What to do when you’ve gathered your proof
Once you’ve figured out your alternative proof of address, the next step is making sure those documents are presented in a way that banks and government offices can approve without hesitation.
Extra documents that can help
While your main proof does the heavy lifting, there are a few supporting documents that can give your application more credibility. For example, if you already have a bank account, a statement or letter that includes your address can help tie everything together. Utility or telecom confirmations also help show that you’re connected to the address.
Even employment contracts, company IDs, or your Emirates ID application receipt can reassure institutions that you’re a legitimate resident. On their own, they’re not enough to prove your address, but paired with your primary documentation, they can make your case stronger.
Making your documents official
Once you have everything in hand, you’ll want to make sure it’s properly authenticated. Some authorities prefer certified or notarised copies, especially when relying on employer housing or family sponsorship. If you’re using a marriage or birth certificate to prove a relationship, attestation might be required, but it’s totally normal.
It’s recommended to double-check your address formatting. The UAE loves accuracy, so using the correct building name or Makani number can prevent confusion and keep your paperwork moving forward instead of bouncing back for clarification.
Transitioning from temporary proof to your own tenancy
Eventually, once you’ve settled into your routine, you might want to secure your own lease. It’s one of those exciting milestones that makes you feel independent and stable in your new country.
If you’re not ready yet, you might still be able to add your name to an existing Ejari or Tawtheeq, which can be a helpful stepping stone before signing a contract. When the time comes to pick your own place, think about the things that matter to you, like budget, utilities, and proximity to public transport.
Knowing what to look out for across the UAE
Once you start dealing with paperwork in the UAE, you’ll notice that every emirate has its own rhythm. The overall rules are similar, but the finer details can vary.
The quirks and differences across emirates
Dubai’s Ejari system is the star of the show when it comes to tenancy registration. If you’re renting in Dubai, the process is fairly streamlined because the system is tightly integrated with government platforms.
Abu Dhabi uses Tawtheeq instead, which serves the same purpose and is generally accepted just as widely, though the steps to register or update it may differ slightly.
Meanwhile, emirates such as Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Umm Al Quwain, and Fujairah sometimes ask for additional supporting documents. It’s not harder, just occasionally requires an extra document or two, especially if your name isn’t on the lease.
Tips to avoid delays
Even with the right documents, surprises pop up. One of the easiest ways to save time is to check requirements with your bank, utility provider, or government office in advance. Different institutions can have slightly different preferences.
You’ll also want to remember to keep digital and physical copies of everything. Some organisations love the convenience of scans, while others still want original stamps and signatures. And yes, it sounds minor, but consistent address formatting really matters here. Using the same building name, unit number, or Makani across forms helps prevent confusion when your documents are reviewed side by side.
Common red flags to avoid
Among the excitement of moving and getting set up, it’s worth keeping an eye out for warning signs. If a landlord refuses to register a tenancy or suggests skipping Ejari entirely, that’s usually a big red flag. Registration protects you, not just the owner.
The same goes for anyone selling shortcuts or unofficial “proof” letters; if it sounds too good to be true, it’s probably not legal. And while shared accommodation is common, subletting without the landlord’s approval can put you in a tricky spot if things go wrong. Taking the legitimate route might take a little more time, but it saves you from big problems later on.
Your UAE journey can start without a lease
Proving your address in the UAE can feel intimidating at first, but that doesn’t mean you’re stuck. Plenty of newcomers stay with family, live in company housing, share a flat, or spend their first few weeks in a hotel apartment, and those situations can still be used to show where you’re living.
With the right documents and a clear idea of which option applies to you, those admin tasks start to feel manageable, and you can start to feel more settled in your new home. As you find your rhythm, Remitly is here to support you through that journey and help you stay connected with the people who matter.
FAQs
Can I use a bank statement as proof of address?
Yes. If the statement includes your physical address, some banks may accept it, especially when paired with other documents.
Is a PO box acceptable?
Sadly, no. It’s great for mail, but it’s not a residential address.
What if I am staying in a hotel or serviced apartment?
A stamped letter from the hotel confirming your stay can often solve this problem.
Can I add my name to someone else’s lease?
Sometimes, it depends on the landlord and the emirate.