Buying/selling in Dubai: key documents and costs

Dubai’s market attracts investors and residents alike. To keep transactions smooth, assemble the required documents and plan for fees (DLD, registration, mortgage, agency, NOC, etc.). This checklist covers buyer and seller paperwork and typical cost items.

Buyer documents

• Passport and Emirates ID (if resident).
• Proof of address (utility/bank statement).
• Signed SPA and proof of funds/payments (receipts/transfers).
• Original title deed for registration handover.
• Developer/Association NOC (no arrears/violations).
• POA for representation where applicable.

For mortgaged purchases: provide income evidence, bank pre–approval, 6month statements, valuation.

Buyer costs

• DLD – 4% of price + indicative AED580 admin fee.
• Registration: AED2,000 + 5% VAT (≤ AED 500,000) or AED 4,000 + 5% VAT (> AED 500,000).
• Mortgage registration: 25% of loan + AED290.
• Agency commission: ~2% of price + VAT.
• Conveyancing: ~AED6,000–10,000.
• Developer NOC: ~AED500–5,000.
• Title deed: ~AED250.
• Trustee office: ~AED2,000–5,000.

Seller documents

• Original title deed.
• Passport (+ Emirates ID if resident; validity > 6 months post transaction).
• NOC confirming no disputes/arrears.
• SPA (transfer agreement) and service/utility clearances.
• Mortgage release certificate if applicable.
• Floor plan and technical details for marketing.

Seller costs

• NOC: ~AED500–5,000 + VAT.
• Agency commission: usually 2% of price + VAT (contract dependent).
• DLD 4%: sometimes split between parties (agree contractually).
• Transfer fee: ~AED2,100 (AED 4,200 (> AED 500,000).
• For mortgages: release (~AED1,000), early settlement (1% of balance or AED 10,000), blocking (~AED 1,020–1,540).

Practical tips

• Schedule NOCs/clearances to avoid rescheduling DLD/Trustee appointments.
• Formalise funds flows (manager’s cheques) and keep receipts.
• Contract: define completion, key handover, penalties and defect/warranty handling.

Complete files (ID, title, NOC, payment evidence) and a clear view of fees (DLD, registration, bank, agent) streamline the deal. Legal support accelerates registration and reduces risks linked to mortgages and service charge arrears.

Our lawyers, who are experts in property law, are available to answer all your questions and provide advice. We offer face-to-face meetings or videoconferencing. You can make an appointment directly online at https://www.agn-avocats.fr/.

AGN AVOCATS – Property Law
contact@agn-avocats.fr
09 72 34 24 72