How to Buy Property in Dubai: A Step-by-Step Guide

Buying property in Dubai is open to residents and non-residents of any nationality in the city’s freehold areas, and the process is quicker than in most countries — a ready property can transfer in a few weeks. This guide walks through each step in order.

1. Set your budget — including the fees

Start with the total you can spend, not just the price. On top of the purchase price, plan for roughly 6–7% in buying costs: the 4% Dubai Land Department transfer fee, the trustee office fee, agency commission and, if you are borrowing, mortgage registration and bank fees. Banks no longer finance these fees, so they need to be paid in cash. See our full breakdown of buying costs.

If you need finance, get a mortgage pre-approval first. It tells you exactly how much you can borrow and makes sellers take your offer seriously. Our mortgage calculator gives a first estimate.

2. Choose the area and the type of property

Decide between an off-plan and a ready property, and between an apartment, townhouse or villa. Then shortlist areas by commute, schools, budget and whether you are buying to live in or to rent out. Our area guides describe what each district is like and what is for sale there.

3. View, check and make an offer

For a ready property, view it in person or by video, and check the title deed, the service charges, any outstanding mortgage and whether it is tenanted. For off-plan, check the developer’s track record, the escrow account and the handover date. Once you are satisfied, make an offer through your advisor.

4. Sign the sale agreement (Form F)

For a resale property the buyer and seller sign the Memorandum of Understanding, known as Form F, which records the price, the transfer date and each side’s obligations. The buyer normally hands over a deposit cheque of 10% of the price, held until transfer.

For off-plan, you sign the developer’s Sale and Purchase Agreement (SPA) and pay the booking amount; the sale is registered in the DLD’s interim register (Oqood).

5. Obtain the developer’s NOC

Before a resale can transfer, the developer issues a No Objection Certificate confirming that service charges are paid up. The seller usually applies and pays the fee; it takes a few days.

6. Transfer ownership at a trustee office

Buyer and seller (or their representatives with power of attorney) meet at a DLD-approved registration trustee office. The buyer pays the price by manager’s cheque along with the DLD fees, and the new title deed is issued in the buyer’s name, usually on the same day.

How long does it take?

• Cash purchase of a ready property: typically two to four weeks from Form F.
• With a mortgage: usually four to eight weeks, because of the bank’s valuation and approval.
• Off-plan: the purchase is registered within days; you receive the title deed at handover.

Documents you need

• Passport (and Emirates ID and residence visa if you are a UAE resident)
• For a mortgage: salary certificate or trade licence, bank statements and proof of address
• For buying from abroad: a notarised power of attorney if someone signs for you

Ready to start? Browse properties for sale, off-plan projects or distress deals priced below the market.

Fees and rules change. Confirm current figures with the Dubai Land Department (DLD) or your advisor before you commit — this guide is general information, not legal or financial advice.