7 Legal Steps Before Buying Property in Dubai

30/09/25
5 min read

A Practical Checklist to Avoid Legal Mistakes and Hidden Costs in Dubai Property Deals

Use this checklist to avoid hidden risks, unexpected fees, and legal mistakes when investing in Dubai real estate.

1. Verify Ownership Zone

  • Check if the property is in a Freehold zone (full ownership rights for foreigners) or Leasehold zone (usually 99-year leases).
  • Most popular freehold areas: Downtown, Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah, JVC, Business Bay.

2. Confirm Developer Registration

  • Ensure the developer is registered with RERA (Real Estate Regulatory Agency).
  • For off-plan projects, check that buyer funds are held in a government-approved escrow account.

3. Work Only With Licensed Brokers

  • Ask for the broker’s RERA ID card.
  • Verify they are listed on the official Dubai Land Department (DLD) website.
  • Avoid dealing with unlicensed “freelance” agents.

4. Understand All Fees & Taxes

  • 4% DLD transfer fee (mandatory).
  • NOC charges from the developer (around AED 5,000).
  • Service charges (vary by project, typically AED 10–30 per sq.ft. annually).
  • Mortgage registration fee (if financing via bank).

5. Review Documentation Carefully

  • For off-plan: Oqood registration, Sales & Purchase Agreement (SPA).
  • For ready property: Title Deed, NOC, Ejari registration (if renting out).
  • Check that the seller has no outstanding service charges or mortgage.

6. Budget for Closing Timeline

  • NOC issuance may take 7–14 days.
  • Mortgage approval: 2–4 weeks.
  • Title Deed transfer: typically 1–2 weeks after all documents are complete.

7. Explore Residency Options

  • Buying property worth at least AED 750,000 can make you eligible for a 3-year residency visa.
  • Investment above AED 2 million may qualify for the 10-year Golden Visa.

Final Tip

Don’t rely only on brokers or brochures. Always cross-check property prices, yields, and developer history with real data before signing.

👉 To instantly access verified projects with AI-based ratings on Price, Momentum, and Attractiveness, use Top Real Estate Dubai. Our platform helps you avoid risks and choose only safe, profitable investments.

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