Buying guide
How to buy property in Dubai
From the first conversation to the keys: the steps, the paperwork and the costs.
- Step 1
Consultation
We agree your budget, goals (home, rental income or capital growth), preferred communities and timeline.
- Step 2
Shortlist and viewings
We shortlist verified projects and units, then arrange in-person or video viewings and show-home visits.
- Step 3
Reserve your unit
You sign a reservation form and pay the booking amount set by the developer or seller.
- Step 4
Sale agreement
For off-plan, you sign the developer's Sale and Purchase Agreement (SPA). For resale, buyer and seller sign the Memorandum of Understanding (Form F).
- Step 5
Registration
Off-plan sales are registered with the Dubai Land Department through the Oqood system. Resales transfer at a DLD trustee office, where the title deed is issued.
- Step 6
Payments and handover
You pay instalments according to the plan. At completion we help with inspection, snagging, utilities and key handover.
Payment plans explained
Off-plan projects are usually paid in stages. The plan is written as the share paid before handover and the share paid after, for example 30/70.
During-construction plans
e.g. 30/70 or 40/60
A share of the price (the first figure) is paid in instalments while the building is under construction, and the balance on handover.
Post-handover plans
e.g. 60/40 with 40% over 2–3 years after handover
Part of the balance is spread over a period after you receive the keys. Terms vary by developer.
Monthly plans
e.g. 1% per month
Fixed monthly instalments over construction and sometimes beyond. Check the total paid by handover.
Ready property
Cash or mortgage
Pay in full at transfer, or with a UAE mortgage. Banks generally lend up to 80% for an expatriate's first home under AED 5M.
Example: a 30/70 plan on an AED 2,000,000 apartment
- Booking (10%): AED 200,000
- During construction (20%): AED 400,000 in instalments
- On handover (70%): AED 1,400,000, paid in cash or with a mortgage
- Plus DLD fee of 4%: AED 80,000 and registration charges
Illustrative arithmetic only. Each developer sets its own schedule in the SPA.
Costs to budget for
| Cost | Typical amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| DLD transfer fee | 4% of the purchase price | Usually paid by the buyer. |
| Title deed and map fees | AED 250 title deed + AED 250 map fee + AED 20 knowledge and innovation fees | As listed by DLD for a sale registration. |
| Trustee office fee (resale) | AED 2,000 – 4,000 + VAT | Depends on property value. |
| Mortgage registration | 0.25% of the loan + admin fee | Only if financing. |
| Agency fee | Agreed in writing before you commit | Shaw Luxury confirms its fee upfront. |
Source: Dubai Land Department — Request for sale registration. Fees change; we confirm current amounts for your purchase in writing.
