Transferring property in Dubai: legal framework, steps and fees

Property transfers in Dubai are regulated by the Dubai Land Department (DLD) and the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA). Whether you are selling, gifting within the family, or transferring by inheritance, you must complete prechecks, obtain authorisations and settle fees. This briefing sets out the essentials to keep your transaction compliant and smooth.

Legal backdrop

Transactions are governed by UAE real estate regulations applicable to freehold/leasehold areas and DLD/RERA rules (including Law No. 13 of 2008). Community rules and freezone regulations may also apply. Engaging counsel helps check title integrity, encumbrances, co–ownership issues, mortgage handling and the specifics of family transfers.

Core documents and checks

• Title deed: verify authenticity and absence of mortgages, liens, pending disputes.
• NOC: obtain from the developer/owners’ association in freehold/gated communities confirming no arrears or violations.
• Sale/transfer agreement: price, payment schedule, parties’ obligations, timeline, conditions precedent (e.g., mortgage release).
• ID/POA: passports/Emirates ID; powers of attorney if represented.

Typical steps (sale)

1. Due diligence: title, charges, community regulations, required approvals.
2. NOC: apply and pay developer/association fee.
3. Contracting: draft/negotiation (price, instalments, handover, penalties, dispute resolution).
4. Fees: see section 4.
5. DLD/Trustee appointment: parties or representatives attend with documents and manager’s cheques; registration and issuance of new title.
6. Ancillaries: update DEWA (utilities), telecoms and building maintenance accounts.

Standard costs

• DLD transfer fee: typically 4% of the property value (contract price or market value, whichever higher).
• Trustee office fee: around AED4,000–5,000 per DLD tariff.
• Developer NOC: approx. AED500–5,000.
• Agent commission: usually 2% of price.
• Legal fees: depend on complexity (mortgage, donation, succession, coownership).
• Title issuance: per DLD schedule.

For mortgaged properties, coordinate with the lender (release certificate, discharge fees, settlement of dues) and align timelines accordingly.

Special cases

Family gifts and inheritance

Intrafamily transfers may benefit from reduced/waived fees in limited cases. Consider the interaction between civil law and Sharia principles for succession; nonMuslim wills can be relevant.

Joint ownership

All co-owners must consent. Plan signatures/POAs and obtain clearance from the owners’ association (service charges up to date).

Offplan

Comply with escrow protections, approvals and project registers; stresstest delivery clauses, delay remedies and warranties. Verify developer/project status with DLD/RERA.

Practical tips

• Sequence key steps (NOC → Trustee appointment → registration) and prepare manager’s cheques for DLD/Trustee and contractual payments.
• Evidence all payments (receipts) and keep developer/association correspondence.
• Derisk contract clauses (penalties, handover, condition, postclosing liabilities).

In Dubai, a successful property transfer relies on robust due diligence (title, charges, compliance), timely NOCs, clear visibility of fees (DLD 4%, Trustee, NOC, agent), and a well drafted agreement (price, payments, handover). Experienced counsel streamlines timelines, funds flows and DLD registration.

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