The norm in Dubai is to pay 1 year's rental up front (one cheque). You also have to pay a 5% deposit and a 5% fee to the broker. There willl then be a written agreement between you and the owner, registered at the Municipality of Dubai. This rental agreement valid for 2 years, whereafter the owner can increase the rent by 5%. Should you which to cancel, you can give the landlord written notice, but it is bridge of contract, and you might loose you monies..... Unless you find another tenant, and you and the owner can come to an agreement, to refund you partly. But you are the defaulty party....