Dubai property law: ownership, buy/sell, renting and disputes

Dubai’s market is attractive and well regulated. Understanding ownership (freehold/leasehold), the buy/sell pathway, tenancy (Law No. 26 of 2007) and dispute resolution mechanisms helps you take informed decisions.

Freehold vs. leasehold

• Freehold: full ownership (asset + land) for foreigners in designated areas (e.g., Dubai Marina, Downtown, JLT).
• Leasehold: usage rights up to 99 years; land remains with a national/government entity (e.g., parts of Dubai Silicon Oasis).
• Offplan: regulated by RERA/DLD registrations, escrow, permits and developer transparency.

Buying: steps and costs

1. Research areas, values and rental yields.
2. Offer/negotiation: deposit (c. 10%), contract terms (price, schedule, handover, penalties).
3. DLD registration: attendance, payments, title deed

Costs: DLD (4%), agency (c. 2%), NOC (AED 500–5,000), Trustee (AED 2,000–5,000), registration (AED 2,000/4,000 + VAT), mortgage (0.25% of loan + AED 290).

Selling: obligations

• Value the property; gather title, NOC, clearances and (if applicable) mortgage release.
• Settle fees (NOC, agency, possible sharing of DLD 4%).
• Ensure the asset is free of arrears at completion (service charges, utilities).

Renting: key rules

Landlord-tenant relations are regulated (Law No. 26 of 2007). Key points:

• Term: one year+; Ejari registration required.
• Deposit: c.5% (unfurnished) / 10% (furnished).
• Rent increases: 90day notice and DLD Rent Index
• Landlord duties: fit condition, essential services, return deposit within 30 days absent damage.
• Tenant rights: quiet enjoyment, safety, prior notice of changes.

Dispute resolution

The Rental Disputes Settlement Centre (RDSC) hears tenancy disputes. For sale/purchase, use contract clauses on law/forum or arbitration (DIAC/DIFC/ADCCAC). Counsel helps with strategy, evidence and enforcement.

Good practice

• Verify titles/charges, NOCs and compliance (due diligence).
• Detail clauses (timelines, penalties, warranties, handover, defects, termination).
• Track all payments and keep DLD/Trustee receipts.

Knowing the ownership regimes, registration processes and tenancy rules helps you navigate buy/sell/rent decisions in Dubai. Legal support strengthens document integrity, contractual coherence and any subsequent dispute handling.

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