The rental process in the UAE is getting a major digital upgrade, with tenant credit checks slowly becoming part of the leasing journey.

For many residents who have rented abroad, sharing a credit score may already feel familiar. But in the UAE, the concept is still new, and importantly, fully based on tenant consent.

How the new system works

The new Tenant Screening solution, launched by Etihad Credit Bureau in collaboration with UAE PASS, allows landlords to request access to a prospective tenant’s credit score.

Here’s the key detail:

• Tenants receive a request through UAE PASS
• They can approve or reject access themselves
• No credit information is shared without consent

The goal is to create a more transparent and efficient rental process while keeping financial data secure.

Why landlords want it

For landlords, the system offers verified financial insights that may help assess payment reliability, especially for:

• Luxury properties
• High-value rentals
• Multiple post-dated cheque agreements

The credit check is designed to complement existing requirements, such as:

• Salary certificates
• Emirates ID
• Visa verification

How to check your UAE credit score

1. Visit the official AECB platform or download the app
2. Log in using UAE PASS or register with:
   • Emirates ID
   • Mobile number
   • Email address
3. Verify your identity using the OTP sent to your phone
4. Select Credit Score Report
5. Pay:
   • Dh10.50 for the score only
   • Dh84 for the full credit report (including VAT)
6. Receive your score instantly in PDF format

Strong credit profile benefits

While some renters may initially see it as another step, supporters say the system could actually make approvals faster and smoother.

In competitive rental markets such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi, a strong credit profile could help tenants stand out and reassure landlords during the application process.

Officials say UAE PASS plays a critical role by acting as the secure gateway for all approvals, ensuring users remain in control of their personal financial information.

The system is currently optional, but experts believe tenant screening could become increasingly common as the UAE rental market continues to modernise.

ANAROCK Group has announced a major leadership reshuffle as it looks to expand its footprint across the Middle East and Europe, with a strong focus on Dubai’s growing real estate market.

The independent real estate consultancy said the appointments come as the region enters a new phase of growth, driven by rising investor confidence, infrastructure expansion and increasing demand across residential and institutional real estate sectors.

New leadership appointments

Anuj Kejriwal has been appointed CEO, EMEA, while continuing his current role as Founding Partner and Head of Retail Advisory.

In his expanded position, Kejriwal will oversee the rollout of ANAROCK’s institutional advisory services across the Middle East, including capital markets, land services, consulting and valuation.

The company said Dubai will act as the launchpad for its wider regional expansion strategy before moving into broader European markets.

Meanwhile, Aayush Puri has been named CEO – Residential, Middle East and CEO of ANAROCK Channel Partner (ACP).

He will lead the firm’s residential business across the region while continuing to oversee the international operations of ANACITY, the group’s proptech and property management platform.

Focus on Dubai’s growth

According to ANAROCK, Dubai’s real estate market remains one of the key long-term growth drivers for the company, supported by strong economic fundamentals and sustained investor demand.

The firm also plans to hire senior local talent across consulting, residential and capital markets divisions as part of its expansion push.

Anuj Puri, Chairman of ANAROCK Group, said the leadership changes reflect the company’s commitment to strengthening its regional presence and capturing new cross-border opportunities in one of the world’s most dynamic real estate markets.

Set against the backdrop of Khorfakkan’s mountains and coastline, His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, on Thursday inaugurated the new Khorfakkan Resort, a Dh700 million waterfront development designed to elevate tourism and lifestyle living on Sharjah’s east coast.

Stretching along Khorfakkan beach, the resort brings together 573 residential units, from one-bedroom apartments to spacious four-bedroom homes, many overlooking sweeping views of the sea, mountains, beach and city skyline.

Developed by Asas Real Estate, the project spans 330,000 square feet, with a built-up area reaching 1.4 million square feet, adding another landmark destination to the emirate’s growing hospitality and tourism portfolio.

What the resort features:

• 16 retail outlets
• A private beach
• Outdoor swimming pools
• Elevated green spaces covering 100,000 square feet
• Gym and sports facilities
• Integrated hotel-style services

The luxury property is located close to Khorfakkan Amphitheatre and the city’s waterfall attraction, adding to its appeal for residents and visitors.

Officials said the project is expected to support Khorfakkan’s growing tourism sector while creating new investment opportunities through freehold ownership options.