Buying Property
Buying Property in Dubai – Overview
Learn the basics of property ownership in Dubai and UAE.
Updated: September 2026 8 min read
To buy property in Dubai you agree a price, sign a sale agreement, get a no-objection certificate from the developer (for resale), and transfer ownership at a Dubai Land Department trustee office, where the title deed is issued. The same steps apply to UAE residents and foreign buyers in freehold areas; this guide walks through each one.
1. Define Your Goal and Budget
Start by deciding what type of property you want and your budget.
- Are you buying for investment or use?
- What is your preferred location and property type?
- Do you need mortgage financing?
- Don't forget to factor in additional costs (DLD fees, agency fees, registration, etc.).
2. Choose the Right Property
Research the market and shortlist properties that match your goals.
- Use RealtyReview.ae to compare communities, developers, and projects.
- Read reviews of the developer and agent.
- Visit the property or request a virtual tour.
3. Make an Offer
Once you find the right property, submit an offer to the seller.
- The offer is usually made through the real estate agent.
- Negotiate the price, payment terms, and any special conditions.
- The seller can accept, reject, or make a counter-offer.
4. Sign the MOU (Memorandum of Understanding)
After your offer is accepted, both parties sign the MOU.
- A deposit is agreed and paid, customarily 10% of the price (no law sets the amount).
- The MOU outlines the agreed price, payment terms, and timelines.
- This secures the property while you proceed with due diligence.
5. Due Diligence
Review all documents carefully before making the full payment.
- Verify the property details and ownership.
- Off-plan buyers should review the Sales and Purchase Agreement (SPA) and check the unit is registered on Oqood, the DLD’s interim register.
- Ensure there are no outstanding service charges or disputes.
6. Pay and Transfer Ownership
Once everything is in order, proceed with payment and transfer.
- Pay the remaining amount as per the agreement.
- The property is registered with the Dubai Land Department (DLD).
- You will receive the Title Deed for a ready property, or an Oqood registration certificate for off-plan.
7. After the Purchase
- Register for DEWA (electricity and water).
- Notify the building management.
- If renting out, register your tenancy contract via Ejari.
Frequently asked questions
What are the steps to buy a property in Dubai?
Define your goal and budget, choose a property, make an offer, sign the MOU and pay the deposit, carry out due diligence, then pay and transfer ownership with the Dubai Land Department. After the purchase, register for DEWA and notify the building management.
What is an MOU when buying property in Dubai?
The MOU (memorandum of understanding) is signed by buyer and seller once an offer is accepted. It sets out the agreed price, payment terms and timelines, and secures the property while you do due diligence. A deposit is paid at this stage, customarily 10% of the price, though no law sets the amount.
What should I check before paying the full price for a property?
Verify the property details and ownership, and make sure there are no outstanding service charges or disputes. Off-plan buyers should also review the Sales and Purchase Agreement (SPA) and check the unit is registered on Oqood, the DLD's interim register.
What do I get once the property is transferred?
The property is registered with the Dubai Land Department and you receive a title deed for a ready property, or an Oqood registration certificate for an off-plan one. If you then rent it out, the tenancy contract must be registered through Ejari.
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