Property transfer fees in Dubai: what to expect and how to plan

When buying or selling in Dubai, clarity on transfer fees is essential to set the total budget and avoid surprises. This guide outlines the main cost items (DLD, registration, NOC, agency, etc.), provides sample calculations and addresses FAQs.

Who charges what?

• DLD (Dubai Land Department): collects the transfer fee (4% of value), title issuance and registration
• Trustee Office: charges fixed fees for the formal registration process.
• Developer/Owners’ Association: collects NOC fees and issues clearance certificates.
• Real estate agent: charges a commission (typically 2%).

Typical tariffs

• DLD transfer fee: 4% of property value (contract or market value, whichever higher).
• Registration fee: about AED 2,000 + 5% VAT (≤ AED 500,000) or AED 4,000 + 5% VAT (> AED 500,000).
• Title issuance: about AED 250.
• Trustee fee: approx. AED 2,000–5,000 depending on value.
• Developer NOC: approx. AED 500–5,000.
• Agency commission: 2% of price + VAT (often borne by buyer).
• Mortgage items: mortgage registration fee (0.25% of loan + AED 290) and release fees where applicable.

Worked example

For a property at AED 1,000,000:

• DLD 4%: AED 40,000;
• Registration: AED 4,000 + VAT (if > AED 500,000);
• Trustee: AED 4,000–5,000;
• NOC: AED 500–5,000;
• Agency: 2% = AED 20,000 (+ VAT);
• Title issuance: AED 250.

Actual amounts depend on current tariffs, asset type (apartment, villa, commercial), mortgage status and contractual allocation of costs.

Payment timing and methods

Fees are paid at registration. Payments to DLD/Trustee are typically by manager’s cheque. Always obtain receipts and keep the audit trail.

FAQs

• Who pays the 4%? Typically the buyer, unless otherwise agreed.
• Is 4% variable? No, the rate is fixed; other fees may vary.
• Are family transfers cheaper? Reductions/waivers may apply in limited cases (confirm case by case).
• Title timing? Usually 1–3 business days post complete filing and payment.
• Mortgages? Schedule release steps prior to transfer (bank fees, timelines).

Budgeting best practice

• Model the full cost stack (transfer, registration, Trustee, NOC, agency, bank, legal).
• Check valuation (market vs. price); DLD relies on the higher of the two.
• Prepare documents (NOC, clearances) and required cheques in advance.

Transaction success depends on a complete view of fees: DLD (4%), registration, Trustee, NOC, agency, mortgage. Plan payments, keep receipts and negotiate allocation to avoid delays and friction.

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