Frequently Asked Questions
For Buyers
The primary costs include a 4% Dubai Land Department (DLD) fee, agency fees, mortgage registration fees, and valuation fees, typically amounting to around 6-8% of the property price.
Yes, foreigners can buy property in designated freehold areas across Dubai without any restrictions.
To get a mortgage, you’ll need a valid residency visa, proof of income, and a good credit score. The process involves mortgage pre-approval, property selection, final approval, and signing the mortgage agreement.
The entire process, from offer acceptance to transfer of ownership, typically takes around 30-45 days.
Freehold properties grant full ownership rights, while leasehold properties provide ownership for a specified period, typically up to 99 years.
For Sellers
You’ll need the original title deed, a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the developer, your Emirates ID, and a signed sales agreement.
Enhancing curb appeal, ensuring the property is well-maintained, and setting a competitive price based on market trends can increase your property’s value.
The timeline varies but typically ranges from 60 to 90 days, depending on market conditions and property type.
Proceeds from the sale must be paid via a Dirham manager’s cheque made out to the names listed on the title deed. This cheque can be deposited into your home country’s bank account. Many international banks offer multi-currency accounts, and you might consider opening a UAE Dirham account for quicker processing. While UAE banks are generally flexible with account openings, most now require a UAE residency visa for non-residents.
The 12-month eviction period begins once the tenant receives the notice. If the notice is provided more than 90 days before the current lease expires, you may request the renewal to extend only until the end of the 12-month period. Any changes to the lease terms should be communicated in writing at least 90 days prior to the lease expiration unless otherwise agreed upon in the contract.
For Property Management and Renting
Property management services typically include tenant sourcing, rent collection, maintenance, legal compliance, and handling tenant issues.
Yes, you can hire a property management company to handle all aspects of property management, ensuring smooth operations even if you reside abroad.
A property management company handles everything from tenant sourcing and rent collection to maintenance and legal compliance, saving you time and ensuring your property is well-maintained and profitable.
Property management companies coordinate all necessary repairs and maintenance on your behalf, ensuring that issues are resolved promptly with minimal disruption to tenants.
Typically, you’ll need a copy of your passport, residency visa, Emirates ID, and proof of income (such as a salary certificate or bank statements).
Rental contracts are usually for 12 months and can be renewed annually, subject to agreement between the landlord and tenant.
The security deposit is typically 5% of the annual rent for unfurnished properties and 10% for furnished ones. This deposit is refundable at the end of the lease, provided there is no damage to the property.
If your landlord neglects essential repairs, you can report the issue to the Dubai Land Department or the Rental Dispute Center for mediation and resolution.
Rent increases are regulated by the Dubai Land Department and must follow the guidelines of the RERA Rent Index, which considers current market rates. Rent increases can only be applied at the end of the tenancy contract and with 90 days’ written notice.