Conveyancing Guide

Buying Property in Dubai: Fees & Process

A step-by-step roadmap to purchasing ready residential real estate in Dubai: contracts, valuations, developer NOCs, trustee transfer day, and statutory land department fees.

1. The Unified Real Estate Contract (Form F / MOU)

Once you agree on purchase terms with a seller, both parties execute the official Dubai Land Department Unified Form F contract through the Dubai REST app. A 10% security deposit cheque is deposited with the certified broker. Ensure your contract contains a clear finance contingency clause to protect your deposit if mortgage valuation falls short.

2. Property Valuation

The mortgage lender appoints an independent surveyor to inspect the property and establish its fair market value. The lender bases its maximum loan strictly on the valuation amount or purchase price, whichever is LOWER.

3. Developer No Objection Certificate (NOC)

The seller applies for an NOC from the master developer (e.g. Emaar, Nakheel, Damac) confirming that all service charges, maintenance fees, and master community dues are paid in full. NOCs typically take 3 to 7 working days to issue.

4. Transfer Day at the Registration Trustee Office

Parties convene at an authorized DLD Registration Trustee office. The lender representative presents bank manager cheques settling the loan disbursement and seller proceeds. Transfer fees are paid, signatures are verified, and the Dubai Land Department immediately issues the electronic Title Deed in the buyer's name.

Official Dubai Fee Schedule

Fee Description	Cost / Calculation	Statutory Basis
DLD Property Transfer Fee	4% of property purchase price + AED 580	Dubai Land Department
Mortgage Registration Fee	0.25% of loan amount + AED 290	Dubai Land Department
Registration Trustee Fee	AED 2,000 + 5% VAT (<500k) or AED 4,000 + 5% VAT (≥500k)	DLD Trustee Office
Real Estate Agency Fee	2% of property purchase price + 5% VAT	Standard Market Practice
Property Valuation Fee	AED 2,500 – AED 3,500 + 5% VAT	Appointed Surveyor