4 cheques to 12 instalments: Monthly rent payments trend in UAE

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is witnessing a transformative shift in its rental market, as tenants increasingly demand flexible payment options and landlords embrace digital solutions. Traditionally, rent payments in the UAE have been made through post-dated cheques, often requiring large upfront sums. However, a growing trend toward monthly instalments is reshaping the landscape, driven by tenant preferences and technological advancements. Platforms like Keyper and Takeem are at the forefront of this change, offering tenants the ability to spread their annual rent across 12 monthly payments. Property Finder’s recent partnership with Keyper, set to launch in 2026, integrates this option directly into its app and website, allowing payments via card or direct debit. While traditional cheque-based contracts remain available, the convenience of digital payments is gaining traction, enabling tenants to better manage their finances. Landlords, too, benefit from reduced defaults and faster occupancy rates. Although some tenants may incur a convenience fee for monthly payments, the overall shift is seen as a win-win for all parties involved. This evolution reflects a broader move toward modernizing the rental process in the UAE, with significant implications for the real estate sector.