Buying real estate in a city as dynamic and international as Dubai can be exciting, but also overwhelming if you’re new. This Dubai real estate guide walks you through the essentials from understanding what “buying property in Dubai” truly means, to the steps on How to buy property in Dubai to tips for negotiating and closing. You’ll be equipped to make informed decisions by partnering with shubh Labh realtors.
Budget ultimately determines affordability and other added costs. Here, the crucial issue is to determine the mode of payment-cash or mortgage.
Go through reliable listings, take viewings, check the credibility of the developers (if off-plan), and compare the locations
When purchasing property in Dubai, it’s important to engage a property agent registered with RERA (Real Estate Regulatory Agency) and/or licensed by DLD. They can assist in the documentation process, negotiation, and legal compliance
Connect with trusted Dubai real estate guide like Shubh Labh Realtors to navigate the Dubai property buying process
If you are buying from a property that is still under construction, make sure you have some form of protection according to escrow laws.Check the Title Deed, No Objection Certificates, the service charge history, the developer's reputation and the deadline to complete the project
Sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) or Sales Agreement after finalising the property and pay a reservation or deposit (often ~10%) to lock the deal.
Get No Objection Certificate if required, Finalize payments, complete paperwork through the Dubai Land Department (DLD) or Trustee Office, and register the property under your name.
Manage service charges, maintenance, DEWA (utilities), insurance, and other ongoing expenses after handover of the property
When buying property in Dubai, the advertised price isn’t all. Several extra costs appear through the property purchase Dubai process:
| Fee Type | What It Is | Approximate Cost / Notes |
|---|---|---|
|
DLD Transfer Fee |
Mandatory fee to register the property with Dubai Land Department
|
4% of purchase price + admin fee (apartments ~AED 580, land/off-plan different)
|
|
Registration Fee
|
Registers property officially under your name
|
AED 2,000 + 5% VAT if property AED 500,000
|
|
Agent Commission
|
Fee for real estate agent / broker
|
Typically 2% + 5% VAT of purchase price
|
|
Mortgage-Related Fees
|
If financing via bank
|
Mortgage registration (0.25% + AED 290), valuation fee (≈AED 2,500-3,500), and bank arrangement fees (~ 1%)
|
|
Conveyancing / Legal Fees
|
Ensuring legal compliance, deeds, NOCs
|
AED 6,000-AED 10,000 often quoted
|
|
Service Charges & Maintenance
|
Annual costs for upkeep, shared amenities
|
Varies greatly by community; important in budget
|
|
Other Costs
|
Utilities setup (DEWA etc.), insurance, furnishing, moving etc.
|
Can add up depending on size, finish, and location
|
Yes. Non-UAE residents can buy freehold property in designated areas.
No, you don’t need a local UAE partner to purchase freehold property but legal support is necessary to ensure all rules are met and paperwork is in order.
Often around 10% of agreed purchase price as reservation deposit applied when signing MoU.
Buying property in Dubai can be immensely rewarding if you know how to buy property in Dubai properly. Using this Dubai real estate guide, being clear about the Dubai property buying process, budgeting well for property purchase Dubai, and engaging professionals will make your journey smoother and safer.
At Shubh Labh Realtors, we are committed to guiding first-time buyers every step of the way: from helping you find properties matching your budget to negotiating favorable terms, from clarifying all hidden fees to ensuring legal clarity, and making sure you’re completely confident before you move in.
“Shubh Labh Realtors: Your Trusted Partner for Buying Property in Dubai, Right from the First Step.”
