Dubai Buying Process
Buying a home is one of the biggest and most meaningful decisions you'll ever make and I truly understand how important that is. Whether you're purchasing your very first property or finally stepping into your dream home, I'm here to guide you every step of the way with a personalised, hands on approach.
1 - Know what you can afford
Before you begin there’s a 2% agency fee and a 4% Dubai Land Department (DLD) transfer fee on any purchase.
If you are a finance buyer you’ll likely need a minimum 25% down payment. Interest rates typically range between 3% and 4%, depending on your lender and loan term.
2 - Get pre approved for a mortgage (If applicable)
If you’re a finance buyer, getting pre approved is key. It not only confirms your budget, but also strengthens your offer when it’s time to buy. Your bank will assess your documents and issue a pre-approval letter valid for 60 days giving you clarity and leverage in the market. I work closely with a very reputable mortgage advisor who has been in the UAE for decades which i am more than happy to connect you with if needed.
3 - Work with an experienced agent you trust
Choosing the right agent and agency is crucial. I’ll work closely with you to fully understand your budget, preferences, and must haves. The more detail we can cover at the start, the quicker we can narrow in on the right options saving you both time and money.
4 - Start viewing properties
I will put together properties that match your exact needs and arrange viewings so you can see what’s out there. This stage helps you compare and refine exactly what you’re really looking for.
5 - Make an offer
Once you find the right property, we’ll put in a strong offer. To be taken seriously, it’s best to submit your offer in writing along with:
A copy of a 10% deposit cheque
Passport and Emirates ID copies for all buyers
6 - Sign the MOU (memorandum of understanding)
If the offer is accepted, I’ll prepare the MOU also known as Form F. This outlines the agreed terms. Both parties sign, and the 10% deposit cheque is handed over at this stage.
7 - Sales progression (especially if you’re financing)
If you’re buying with a mortgage, your bank will now complete a valuation of the property. Once that’s done, they’ll issue the Final Offer Letter (FOL).
If the seller has an existing mortgage, that must be settled before we can move forward with the NOC (No Objection Certificate). After signing the MOU, the seller will request a mortgage settlement letter from their bank—this can take up to two weeks.
On average, expect the full sales progression to take 6–10 weeks, depending on the banks involved. If you are a cash buyer this step is not applicable. Expect a quicker sales progression for a cash buyer.
8 - Apply for the NOC
The seller will apply for the NOC (no objection certificate) from the developer. This will be received when the following are completed :
All service charges are paid
Any property modifications meet their guidelines
An inspection is completed
Fees for the NOC typically range between AED 500–5,000. Some developers may also ask for a refundable buyer deposit, returned once the new title deed is registered.
9 - Transfer ownership at the Dubai Land Department (DLD)
Once the NOC is ready, we head to the DLD to complete the transfer. You’ll need:
A manager’s cheque for the purchase price, payable to the seller
Manager’s cheques for the 4% DLD fee and a DLD admin fee (up to AED 4,000)
After the paperwork is finalised, the buyer receives the new title deed. Any overpaid service charges will be settled between the buyer and seller on a pro-rata basis.