Sharjah landlords, tenants alert: New way to attest lease contracts

In a major step toward digital transformation, Sharjah Municipality (SM), in collaboration with the Sharjah Electricity, Water and Gas Authority (SEWA), has launched a new service that automatically attests lease contracts—eliminating the need for tenants to visit government offices or pay electricity deposits in advance.

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The initiative is part of SM’s broader digital integration with government entities, aiming to streamline processes and enhance customer experience, a WAM report said.

Faster processing through unified digital system

Abdullah Al Shehhi, Director of the Rental Regulation Department, described the system as a “significant improvement” that simplifies procedures and reduces the time required to attest residential, commercial, and other types of lease agreements.

According to Al Shehhi, lease contracts are now automatically attested based on data already available in the municipality’s database. Once the attestation is complete, the contract is sent to SEWA. Tenants then receive a text message with payment details for the electricity deposit, and utility services are activated upon payment.

“This initiative reflects our commitment to providing fast, efficient services in line with Sharjah’s digital vision,” Al Shehhi said. “The unified electronic system linking government departments has led to faster transactions and improved satisfaction among residents.”

‘Aqari’ platform at the core of real estate services

The entire process is available via the ‘Aqari’ digital platform, which SM has positioned as a model for innovation in real estate services.

Al Shehhi credited the achievement to strong cooperation with the Sharjah Digital Office and SEWA, as part of continued efforts to fully digitise municipal services across the emirate.

Sharjah’s digital initiatives are part of a broader strategy to make government services more accessible and reduce the need for in-person visits, aligning with the UAE’s vision for smart governance.