Can a foreigner buy a property in Dubai?

Any foreign national can purchase property in Dubai's designated freehold zones, regardless of their nationality or residency status. There's no need for a local sponsor, and ownership is registered directly under the buyer's name. This makes Dubai an accessible market for global investors.

What will happen after 99 years of leasehold in Dubai?

Freehold ownership in Dubai is permanent, but leasehold ownership is time-bound. After the stipulated lease term (e.g., 30, 50, or 99 years) ends, ownership typically reverts to the original freeholder. Renewal or extension arrangements must be made before the lease expires.

What is the 1% property scheme in Dubai?

The 1% payment scheme is a developer-backed initiative allowing buyers to pay for property in small monthly installments, starting at just 1% of the property's value. This continues until handover or completion. It's a popular option, especially for projects like those by Danube.

What is first time home buyer in Dubai 2025?

The Dubai Land Department (DLD) launched a 'first-time home buyer' program in July 2025 to ease property purchases for residents. This initiative offers exclusive benefits such as priority access to new launches, potential discounted prices, and flexible payment plans. It aims to make homeownership more attainable.

Dubai Property Sale (2025 Guide to Seller Costs & Fees)

Navigating a Dubai property sale in 2025 requires careful financial planning. Being well-prepared is crucial for a smooth and profitable transaction. A key part of this involves understanding the various costs you will incur, from government fees to professional service charges. These expenses are a standard part of the sales process and must be factored into your final calculations to determine your net proceeds.

This comprehensive guide breaks down the essential costs involved when selling property in Dubai. From developer-required certificates to fees for clearing a mortgage, we cover the primary expenses you should anticipate for your residential property Dubai sale.

What are the primary fees when selling a property in 2025?

When you decide to sell your property in Dubai, several non-negotiable fees come into play. These are required to ensure the legal and administrative transfer of ownership from you to the buyer.

The main costs for your 2025 property sale include:

Developer Fees (NOC): To proceed with a successful sale, you must obtain a No-Objection Certificate (NOC) from the property's master developer. This document confirms that all service charges and other dues are cleared. The cost for an NOC in 2025 can range from AED 500 to AED 5,000, varying by developer and property type.
Real Estate Agency Fees: Engaging a reputable real estate agency is standard practice to market your unit effectively and find qualified buyers. For a Dubai property sale, the agency commission is typically 2% of the final sale price, plus 5% VAT. This professional service streamlines the selling process.
Dubai Land Department (DLD) Fees: While the buyer usually covers the 4% DLD transfer fee, sellers should be aware this can be a point of negotiation. An administrative fee of AED 580 is also added for issuing the new title deed in 2025.

How are ownership transfer fees handled for your Dubai property sale?

The official transfer of the property title is managed by a Registration Trustee appointed by the DLD. This crucial process involves its own set of administrative fees that must be paid to complete the transaction successfully.

These transfer fees in 2025 are determined by the property's sale price:

For properties sold for less than AED 500,000, the fee is AED 2,100 (plus 5% VAT).
For properties sold for more than AED 500,000, the fee is AED 4,200 (plus 5% VAT).

Typically, the buyer covers this cost. However, it can be split between the buyer and seller based on their mutual agreement outlined in the sales contract (Form F).

Are there extra costs for selling a mortgaged property in Dubai?

Yes, selling property Dubai with an outstanding mortgage involves additional steps and specific fees. These are necessary to clear the existing loan before the title can be legally transferred to the new owner. These particular costs are the seller's responsibility.

What are the key mortgage-related charges in 2025?

Early Settlement Fee: If you are paying off your mortgage ahead of schedule, your bank will charge an early settlement fee. Under current UAE law for 2025, this fee is capped at 1% of the remaining loan balance or AED 10,000, whichever amount is lower.
Mortgage Release Fee: Banks charge an administrative fee to formally release the mortgage and provide the necessary clearance letters for the DLD. This fee typically ranges between AED 1,500 and AED 1,875 in 2025.
Blocking Fees: When selling a mortgaged property, a blocking fee of AED 1,545 is applicable at the DLD to place a temporary hold on the property during the transaction period. The buyer and seller decide who pays this as part of their agreement.

Why you need a conveyancer for your Dubai property sale

Given the complexity of Dubai property sale transactions, hiring a conveyancer or sales progression professional is highly recommended. A conveyancer oversees the entire legal and administrative process, ensuring all documents are correctly prepared, reviewed, and submitted for your peace of mind.

What services does a conveyancer provide? (Conveyancing Fees Dubai 2025)

Drafting and reviewing the terms of the sale agreement (Form F).
Verifying title deeds and ownership documents meticulously.
Coordinating effectively with developers, banks, and the DLD.
Facilitating the secure transfer of funds and contracts efficiently.

Conveyancing fees Dubai for a residential property typically range from AED 5,000 to AED 15,000 in 2025. While an added expense, their specialized expertise provides peace of mind and helps prevent costly errors or delays throughout the transaction process.

What about selling an off-plan property in Dubai?

If you intend to sell an off-plan property Dubai before its completion, you must first consult the developer. Many developers have specific conditions and restrictions on resales, often referred to as "flipping" in the market.

It is common for developers to require that a certain percentage of the property's payment plan has been paid off before they will issue an NOC for the sale. Be sure to clarify any potential resale fees, conditions, or the developer's policy for 2025 directly with your developer before listing your off-plan unit.

Final Thought for Your 2025 Dubai Property Sale

Understanding the costs involved in your Dubai property sale is the first step toward a successful and transparent transaction. By factoring in developer fees, real estate agency commissions, DLD charges, and any potential mortgage-related expenses, you can accurately calculate your net profit. This preparation allows you to navigate the sales process with confidence in 2025. Working with experienced professionals like real estate agents and conveyancers will ensure that every step is handled correctly and efficiently.