Frequently Asked Questions
Question about selling
To sell your property in Dubai, the key documents required include:
- Title Deed: Registered with the Dubai Land Department.
- No Objection Certificate (NOC): From the developer, confirming no liabilities like unpaid mortgages or service fees.
- Original Passport: For verification.
- Tenancy Agreement: If the property is rented.
- Form A: Signed seller’s agreement if selling through a registered real estate agency.
Ensure these documents are ready to facilitate a smooth property sale in Dubai’s real estate market.
Engaging a lawyer is not mandatory when selling property in Dubai. The sale contract, known as Form F or a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), is a standard electronic document provided by the Government. These are typically prepared by the agency managing your transaction. However, you can choose to hire a lawyer or conveyancing company for added assurance.
Ownership transfers are conducted at designated Dubai Land Department Trustee Offices across Dubai. All involved parties, including a Power of Attorney (POA) if delegated by the seller, must be present. If working with Exclusive Links Dubai Real Estate Brokers, the broker will guide you on the required documents and payments for the transfer day.
Yes, registration fees are 4% of the purchase price. For off-plan sales, this is handled with the developer during the original purchase and is VAT-exempt. For secondary sales, the 4% transfer fee is paid at ownership transfer and can be shared between the buyer and seller.
Yes, you can sell your property with a tenant in place. The buyer will inherit the tenancy terms and become the new landlord. You may need to refund any prepaid rent for the remaining lease period and transfer the tenant’s security deposit to the buyer.
You can sell your property anytime if it’s fully paid and you have the Title Deed. For incomplete or off-plan properties, the developer’s approval may be required to transfer payment plans or confirm payments are up to date. Some contracts may require a minimum percentage (e.g., 40%) to be paid before selling. Developers may also set a minimum selling price (MSP) for off-plan properties.
According to Law 33 of 2008, you must give your tenant a 12-month notice if you plan to sell the property as vacant. The notice must state the reason and be delivered via Notary Public or registered mail.
Sales proceeds are issued as a Dirham manager’s cheque payable to the name(s) on the Title Deed. This can be deposited into your home country bank account. Alternatively, you can open a UAE Dirham account if your bank supports multi-currency accounts. Note that UAE banks now typically require a resident visa to open accounts.
Listing prices are not always the actual selling prices. Choose an agency with expertise to provide an accurate valuation. At Exclusive Links, sales managers use historical data to determine realistic property values. Once you agree to list your property, you’ll need to sign a Seller’s Agreement (Form A).
The 12-month eviction notice period starts from the date the tenant receives it. If the notice was served more than 90 days before the tenancy contract expires, you can request a renewal only until the end of the 12-month period. Any changes must be made in writing at least 90 days before the contract’s expiration unless otherwise agreed.
Question about renting
- Security Deposit: Refundable 5% of annual rent, held by the landlord and returned after the lease ends, depending on property condition.
- Agency Fee: 5% of annual rent + 5% VAT.
- Utility Deposits: For water, electricity, and other services, plus VAT on utility charges.
- Rent Payment: Typically paid upfront or via post-dated cheques, as per the agreement.
No, a residency visa is required for long-term rentals. If your visa is under process, consult a leasing agent. Short-term rentals are available for residents and non-residents.
- Individuals: Passport, residency visa, Emirates ID.
- Companies: Trade license, owner’s passport/visa, and occupant details.
- Additional: A salary certificate may be required to verify income.
The landlord covers property service fees. Tenants pay a 5% municipality tax (included in the electricity bill) and may contribute to air conditioning fees if units aren’t individually metered.
Typically, agreements are for 12 months and are renewable.
Yes, Dubai uses a mandatory “Unified Tenancy Contract.” Additional terms can be added in an addendum.
Subletting is not allowed unless explicitly approved by the landlord in writing or in the tenancy agreement.
Post-dated cheques are issued to the landlord or their representative. Ensure sufficient funds in your account to avoid penalties for bounced cheques.
No changes, including painting or adding fixtures, are allowed without written landlord approval.
Rent increases follow RERA’s Rental Index (Decree 43 of 2013) and depend on market rates. Speak to your agent for clarification.
Early termination depends on the tenancy agreement terms or mutual agreement between the landlord and tenant. Otherwise, the full term must be honored.
- Landlord: Major repairs and wear-and-tear maintenance.
- Tenant: Minor repairs and breakages, as per the tenancy agreement.
Question about buying
No, foreigners can buy property in Dubai in designated freehold and leasehold areas, either directly from developers (primary market) or in the resale market (secondary market).
- Freehold: You own the property and land indefinitely.
- Leasehold: A third party retains rights to the land, usually under renewable 99-year leases.
Not always. Resale properties are often more affordable than developer prices. Ensure you work with a reputed real estate agency and understand all financial commitments before purchasing.
Exclusive Links partners with mortgage brokers to find the best rates and terms for your needs. They guide you through the entire process and offer free assessments.
- Secondary Sales: A 10% deposit upon signing the contract, with the balance paid at ownership transfer (usually 30-60 days).
- Primary Sales: Payments are made in stages to the developer’s escrow account.
- Without Mortgages: 2 weeks.
- With Mortgages: 45-60 days to finalize.
Yes, service charges are paid to developers or homeowners’ associations for maintenance and other services. Charges depend on the property size and development.
The new owner inherits the tenancy agreement. Future rent payments and the tenant’s security deposit must be transferred to the new owner as part of the sale.
No, you can use a Power of Attorney (POA) to complete the purchase remotely. POAs can be arranged at Dubai Courts or internationally.
Dubai properties offer high returns with rental yields of 6-10% and significant capital growth. With robust government regulations and global appeal, Dubai is a prime destination for investors.