Buying a Property
Thinking of buying a new home? Wondering what the process is for buying property in Dubai?
- Ready Properties: Ideal for quick moves or rental income, with easier mortgage approval.
- Off-Plan Projects: Offers flexible payment plans, high rental returns, and potential for long-term capital appreciation.
- Freehold Ownership: Complete ownership of the property and land with no time limits.
- Leasehold Ownership: Ownership for a set period (up to 99 years), after which it reverts to the freeholder.
- Financed Buyer & Financed Seller: ~8 weeks.
- Financed Buyer & Cash Seller: ~6 weeks.
- Cash Buyer & Cash Seller: 1-4 weeks.
Yes, you’ll need pre-approval from your bank. Once obtained, your Property Consultant can connect you with trusted partners and help you secure the best mortgage rates tailored to your budget.
Make sure the agency you choose has the expertise to guide you through every step of the financing process.
There are several fees you’ll need to consider:
- Transfer Fee: A 4% fee paid to the Dubai Land Department (sometimes covered by developers for off-plan properties).
- Agent Fee: Typically 2% + VAT, but for off-plan properties, the developer pays the agent fee.
- Community Service or Maintenance Fee: Charged per sq.ft, ranging from AED 2 to AED 30, depending on the area.
- Mortgage Registration Fee: 0.25% of the registered loan amount, paid to the Dubai Land Department for mortgage buyers.
- Conveyancing Fee: AED 8,400 + VAT, if applicable for legal services.
We recommend working with a real estate agency that provides conveyancing services to assist with the sale, transfer, and legal aspects.
To purchase a property, you’ll need:
- UAE Residents: Passport, Emirates ID, and visa.
- Non-Residents: Passport only.
Additionally, a 10% security deposit is required at the time of purchase agreement. This can be secured via:
- Personal Cheque (Dubai banks only, held by the agency until transfer).
- Third-Party Cheque (with a signed undertaking letter).
- Bank Transfer to your chosen real estate agency.
If the property is rented, the tenancy will transfer to you as the new owner. If you plan to live in the property, you’ll need to provide tenants with at least 12 months’ notice, unless the seller has already done so.
It’s always a good idea to consult an expert to ensure you’re aware of any important conditions or next steps.
How to sell a property in Dubai
When the time comes to sell your property, being well informed is the key to success. Here’s what you need to consider before starting and what to expect along the way.
Working with a single agency provides a dedicated point of contact, simplifying the process and ensuring you stay updated without juggling multiple agents.
Contrary to popular belief, working with multiple agencies doesn’t guarantee more exposure. A reputable agency with a strong buyer database will effectively market your property across key channels, using a tailored strategy with a local area expert guiding you through every step.
As a seller, there are a few costs to consider that will be deducted from the agreed sale price:
- Agency Fee: 2% of the sale price.
- No Objection Certificate (NOC): AED 525 – 5,500 (depending on the developer).
- Conveyancing Fee: AED 6,300 – 8,400.
- Mortgage Discharge Fee (if applicable): AED 1,605.
These costs should be factored into your final net proceeds from the sale.
To begin the sale process, you’ll need:
- Valid Passport
- Emirates ID and Visa (for UAE residents; non-residents only need a passport)
- Title Deed/Oqood
Having these documents ready will help streamline the process.
People sell their property for various reasons, such as upgrading to a bigger home or capitalizing on favorable market conditions. If you’re unsure about selling, alternatives like long-term leasing, holiday renting, or refinancing might suit your needs.
Consulting an expert can help you make an informed decision, ensuring you’re confident in your choice.
How to rent a property in Dubai
The time has come to rent your new home.
First on the list: read this quick guide on how to rent a property in Dubai, and what to expect during the leasing process.
The timeline depends on factors like your availability, required documentation, and whether you’re working with a reputable agency. Some clients have found their rental in as little as two days, but this can vary.
After signing the contract, the quickest move-in date is typically at least five days, allowing time for Ejari registration, utility activation, and move-in permits. Your Property Consultant can provide a more accurate timeline based on your specific situation.
It depends on your needs:
- Long-Term Leasing: Ideal for UAE residents, offering a yearly contract with fixed rent, either furnished or unfurnished, and payment via post-dated cheques.
- Short-Term Rental: Best for non-residents or those staying for a few days, weeks, or months. It offers flexibility, fully furnished units, and no need to buy anything—just pack your bags when you’re done.
Both options have their advantages, and we’ll help you find the best fit for your situation.
Ejari is a simple process to register your tenancy contract. After signing your agreement, take it to an Ejari center along with the required documents (your Property Consultant will guide you on these). The registration fee is a minimum of AED 215 + 5% VAT.
This step ensures your contract is legally recognized and gives you access to services like utility activation.
Once your Ejari is complete, you’ll receive a welcome SMS and email from DEWA with your account details and a link to pay the security deposit. The deposit is AED 2,000 for apartments and AED 4,000 for villas, with an activation fee of AED 130 + 5% VAT.
Electricity and water services will be activated within 24 hours after payment.
Need assistance? Our team can help you register your DEWA and Ejari for just AED 1,400 (VAT included).
Once you’ve chosen your rental, here’s what you’ll need to complete the process:
- Tenancy Contract: Review it with your Property Consultant before signing. Afterward, both you and the landlord will sign and keep a copy.
- Cheque(s): Some properties may require upfront payment for the entire year via cheque, while others may accept quarterly or monthly payments. Be sure to have the agreed number of cheques, along with the security deposit (which can be cheque or cash).
Your Property Consultant will handle the cheque handover and provide receipts to finalize the process.
It depends on the location, but in most cases, a permit is required to allow movers access to common areas and roads. Some properties without common areas may not require one.
If a permit is needed, our Customer Service team will email you the details, including helpful links and instructions on how to apply.