Set your budget and buying route
Decide whether you are paying cash or using a mortgage, and whether you want a ready (secondary) home or an off-plan unit. Add roughly 7–8% on top of the price for fees. Mortgage buyers should get a pre-approval first so they know their real ceiling.
Choose the right area
Match the community to your goal: rental yield (JVC, Arjan, Dubai South), capital growth (Dubai Creek Harbour, Business Bay) or lifestyle (Dubai Marina, Downtown). Our area guides compare prices, live supply and nearby amenities.
Work with a RERA-registered agent
Only deal with brokers licensed by RERA. Your agent should hold a valid BRN card and every listing must carry a Trakheesi permit number. Jet Horizon consultants shortlist options, arrange viewings and negotiate on your behalf.
Make an offer and sign the MOU (Form F)
Once price and terms are agreed, buyer, seller and agents sign the RERA Memorandum of Understanding (Form F). The buyer usually gives a 10% security deposit cheque, held by the brokerage until transfer.
Get the developer NOC
The seller applies for a No Objection Certificate from the developer confirming there are no outstanding service charges. If the seller has a mortgage, the bank issues a liability letter and the balance is settled at transfer.
Transfer at a DLD Trustee Office
All parties (or their representatives under a power of attorney) meet at a Dubai Land Department Trustee Office. Fees are paid by manager’s cheque, the title deed is issued in your name the same day and you receive the keys.
After the purchase
Register DEWA and chiller (if any) in your name, set up your service-charge account with the community, and if you plan to rent the unit out, register the tenancy contract on Ejari.
Buying costs at a glance
| DLD transfer fee | 4% of the purchase price |
|---|---|
| Title deed & admin fees | Approx. AED 580 + small DLD service fees |
| Trustee office fee | AED 2,000–4,000 + VAT |
| Agency commission | Typically 2% + VAT |
| Mortgage registration (if financed) | 0.25% of the loan + AED 290 |
| Developer NOC | AED 500–5,000 (usually paid by the seller) |
This guide is for general information only. Fees and regulations change, so confirm with the relevant authority or speak with our team before making a decision.
Frequently asked questions
Can foreigners buy property in Dubai?
Yes. Non-UAE nationals can buy freehold property in designated freehold areas such as Dubai Marina, Downtown, Business Bay, JVC and Dubai Creek Harbour, with full ownership rights.
How much should I budget on top of the price?
Plan for roughly 7–8% of the price for a cash purchase (DLD fee, agency commission, trustee and admin fees), and a little more if you take a mortgage.
How long does a purchase take?
A cash resale deal can complete in about 2–4 weeks after signing the MOU. Mortgage deals typically take 4–8 weeks depending on the bank valuation and approval.
Does buying property give me residency?
Property worth AED 750,000 or more can qualify for a 2-year investor visa, and AED 2 million or more for the 10-year Golden Visa, subject to current government rules.
English
العربية