By Address Point Properties | May 2026
Private property owners across the UAE now have access to a formalised tenant verification service that enables creditworthiness assessments prior to finalising lease agreements. The initiative, introduced by the Etihad Credit Bureau, represents a significant development in how rental transactions are evaluated and managed within the emirates.
How the Verification Process Works
Under the newly activated framework, landlords may request a prospective tenant’s credit profile through the Etihad Credit Bureau’s digital platforms. Access to this information is strictly conditional: tenants must provide explicit authorisation via the UAE PASS national digital identity system before any data is released.
The service is accessible through both the bureau’s mobile application and its official website, offering flexibility for property owners managing portfolios of varying sizes.
Enhanced Tools for Financial Risk Assessment
Alongside the tenant screening capability, the Etihad Credit Bureau has introduced an upgraded cheque evaluation feature powered by artificial intelligence. This tool enables users to photograph post-dated cheques and receive an indication of clearance probability, derived from aggregated credit behaviour patterns.
Both functionalities are designed to support more informed decision-making during the leasing process, potentially reducing payment defaults and streamlining tenant onboarding.
Collaborative Development with Government Entities
The initiative was developed through coordination between the Etihad Credit Bureau, the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority and Digital Dubai. This multi-agency approach reflects a broader strategy to integrate financial data services with the UAE’s national digital infrastructure.
Marwan Ahmad Lutfi, Director-General of the Etihad Credit Bureau, stated that the enhancements demonstrate a commitment to expanding trusted data applications across priority sectors. He noted that secure consent mechanisms and AI-enabled analytics are central to building confidence in digital transactions.
Hamad Obaid Al Mansoori, Director-General of Digital Dubai, highlighted the evolving role of UAE PASS as a foundational element of the country’s digital trust framework. He emphasised that the platform now supports not only identity verification but also controlled data sharing, enabling new service models in sectors where reliability and speed are critical.
Eng. Majed Sultan Al Mesmar, Director-General of the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority, added that linking national digital systems with credit services advances the UAE’s objectives for a connected, efficient digital economy. He described the real estate sector as a key beneficiary of these innovations, given its reliance on transparent, timely transactions.
Implications for Landlords and Tenants
For property owners, the availability of verified credit information offers a more structured approach to evaluating rental applications. This may support fairer, data-informed selections while reducing exposure to payment risk.
For tenants, the consent-based model ensures control over personal financial data. Authorisation is required for each request, and the system operates within the UAE’s established data protection frameworks.
Industry observers note that the initiative aligns with wider efforts to professionalise the rental market and enhance trust between parties. As digital tools become more embedded in property transactions, clarity around rights, responsibilities and data usage remains essential.
Address Point Properties Guidance
At Address Point Properties, we advise clients to remain informed about regulatory and technological developments that affect leasing practices. While new verification tools can support more efficient transactions, all tenant screening must be conducted in compliance with UAE privacy laws and with explicit consent.
Our team assists landlords and tenants across UAE with lease structuring, regulatory compliance and market-aligned terms. For personalised support, contact our licensed consultants at +971 2 666 7724 (WhatsApp) or visit www.approperties.ae.
Address Point Properties LLC is a licensed real estate brokerage operating in UAE. Information provided in this article is for general reference only and reflects verified sources as of May 2026. For advice tailored to your specific circumstances, please consult a registered property consultant.
