Dubai’s real estate market has rapidly grown into one of the most dynamic and investor-friendly in the world. From stunning waterfront apartments in Dubai Marina to spacious villas in Arabian Ranches, the city offers diverse opportunities for both end-users and investors. However, purchasing property in Dubai involves specific legal, financial, and procedural steps.
If you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned investor, having a Dubai property buying checklist will help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure a smooth transaction. This article breaks down everything you need to consider, step-by-step.
1. Decide on the Property Purpose
Before anything else, clarify your reason for buying property in Dubai:
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Personal use: Are you buying a home to live in?
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Investment: Are you buying to rent or resell later?
This decision will influence:
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Property type
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Location
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Size
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Expected ROI or lifestyle preferences
For instance, Downtown Dubai is better suited for high-end living, while Jumeirah Village Circle offers excellent rental yields.
2. Set a Realistic Budget
Budgeting is crucial. Consider both the property price and associated costs, such as:
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Dubai Land Department (DLD) fees (4% of property value)
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Real estate agent’s commission (typically 2%)
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Registration fees (AED 5,250 for completed property)
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Mortgage arrangement and processing fees (if applicable)
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Service charges and maintenance fees (for apartments and gated communities)
Pro Tip: Always keep a buffer of 7–10% above the listed price to cover hidden or unexpected costs.
3. Choose the Right Location
Dubai has various communities to suit different lifestyles and budgets. Some popular choices include:
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Dubai Marina – Ideal for luxury apartments with sea views.
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Business Bay – Central location, great for professionals.
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Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC) – Affordable and investor-friendly.
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Arabian Ranches – Gated villa communities perfect for families.
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Palm Jumeirah – Luxury beachfront living.
Always evaluate proximity to schools, malls, transport, and future development plans in the area.
4. Decide on Freehold vs Leasehold
Dubai offers two main types of ownership:
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Freehold: You fully own the property and the land it’s on. Available to foreigners in designated zones.
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Leasehold: You lease the property (not the land) for up to 99 years.
Most expats prefer freehold for long-term security. Always confirm the status of the property before making a deal.
5. Choose Between Off-Plan and Ready Properties
You’ll also need to decide whether to invest in:
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Off-plan properties: Purchased before construction completion, often with payment plans. Lower upfront costs, but higher risks.
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Ready-to-move-in properties: Available immediately, ideal if you’re planning to live in or rent out the property right away.
Checklist Tip: For off-plan purchases, verify the developer’s track record, RERA registration, and project completion timelines.
6. Work with a RERA-Certified Real Estate Agent
A RERA-certified agent is licensed by the Dubai Land Department to legally assist with property transactions. A good agent can:
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Provide market insights
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Negotiate better deals
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Handle legal and documentation processes
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Offer access to verified listings
Ask for their broker card before proceeding.
7. Obtain a Mortgage Pre-Approval (If Financing)
If you’re not buying in cash, apply for a mortgage pre-approval before house hunting. This helps you:
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Know your borrowing limit
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Speed up the buying process
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Increase credibility with sellers
Banks in the UAE typically require:
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Proof of income (salary certificate or business records)
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Bank statements (last 6 months)
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Passport and Emirates ID copy
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Down payment (usually 20–25% for expats)
8. Property Viewing and Due Diligence
Once you’ve shortlisted options, do the following:
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Visit the property personally or do a virtual tour
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Check for construction quality, maintenance, natural light, and ventilation
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Ask about service charges, previous maintenance records, and rental yield (if investing)
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Confirm the property is not under dispute or mortgage
Pro Tip: Don’t rush into a purchase—visit multiple properties before deciding.
9. Make an Offer and Sign the Agreement
Once you’re ready to buy:
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Make a written offer via your agent
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Upon acceptance, sign the Memorandum of Understanding (Form F) and pay a deposit (usually 10% of the purchase price)
The MOU outlines the terms, responsibilities, and timelines of both buyer and seller.
10. Secure NOC from Developer
The seller must obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the property developer (e.g., Emaar, Nakheel, etc.). This confirms:
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There are no outstanding service fees
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The property is free for transfer
NOC costs range from AED 500 to AED 5,000 depending on the developer.
11. Complete the Transfer at Dubai Land Department (DLD)
You will need to visit a DLD-approved trustee office to complete the transfer. Bring the following:
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Original signed MOU
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Manager’s cheque for full payment
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Original passports/IDs
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NOC from developer
Once all documents are verified, the property is registered in your name, and you receive the new title deed.
12. Post-Purchase Essentials
After the transfer:
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Pay service charges to the building or community management
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Connect utilities (DEWA, Internet, Gas, etc.)
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Register with Ejari (required for rentals)
If the property was tenanted, ensure legal handover or notice of tenancy change is issued properly.
13. Know Your Rights as a Property Owner
Dubai offers strong legal protections for property buyers. Stay informed about:
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Tenancy laws and eviction rules
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Strata regulations for shared buildings
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Service fee disputes
You can consult RERA or a property lawyer for legal assistance if needed.
Quick Dubai Property Buying Checklist Summary
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| ✅ | Define purpose: living or investment |
| ✅ | Set budget + fees |
| ✅ | Choose a suitable location |
| ✅ | Understand freehold vs leasehold |
| ✅ | Decide between off-plan or ready |
| ✅ | Hire RERA-certified agent |
| ✅ | Get mortgage pre-approval |
| ✅ | View property & conduct due diligence |
| ✅ | Make offer & sign MOU |
| ✅ | Secure NOC from developer |
| ✅ | Transfer ownership at DLD |
| ✅ | Handle post-purchase registration |
Conclusion
Buying property in Dubai is exciting, rewarding, and relatively straightforward—if you follow the right steps. With this detailed Dubai property buying checklist, you’re now equipped to navigate the process confidently, whether you’re planning to move, invest, or diversify your assets.
Always work with certified professionals, stay informed about legal requirements, and take your time to find the right property that aligns with your goals.
