Frequently Asked Questions
Questions about selling or buying property in Dubai
Dubai offers high returns on investment, a tax-free environment, and a secure legal framework for real estate transactions. It’s known for luxury and innovation, providing excellent opportunities for both residential and commercial property investments.
DLD is a government agency that oversees real estate transactions in Dubai. It provides regulation, legislation, and services to ensure a smooth property transaction process.
RERA regulates the real estate sector in Dubai, ensuring compliance with laws and standards, protecting the rights of investors and homeowners.
Trustee Offices are authorized agencies that handle various real estate transactions, including sales, mortgages, property registration, and more.
RDC resolves rental disputes between landlords and tenants in Dubai. It addresses claims, counter-claims, and other rental-related issues.
Hassantuk is Dubai’s certified fire safety system for villas. It provides 24/7 monitoring and rapid emergency response through a network connected to Civil Defence Command Centres.
Yes, Dubai offers various visas for property investors, including:
- A 3-year visa for property purchases of at least AED 750,000.
- A 10-year Golden Visa for investments of AED 2 million and above.
The property transfer fee is 4% of the sale price or valuation amount, paid to the Dubai Land Department.
Yes, only licensed real estate brokers are legally permitted to broker sales and purchases in Dubai. Using a licensed agent helps ensure a secure transaction.
No, Dubai does not impose property taxes on real estate purchases.
Freehold properties offer perpetual ownership, allowing the owner to use or sell the property at will. Leasehold properties are long-term tenancies, typically ranging from 39 to 99 years.
Yes, foreigners and expatriates can buy property in Dubai, but only in designated freehold areas.
On average, it takes 20 to 30 days to complete a property transaction from the date the Agreement for Sale is signed.
If you cannot complete payment, the developer has specific rights to reclaim or resell the property, depending on the stage of construction and other factors.
Brokerage fees are typically 2% of the sale price plus VAT, paid by the buyer on the transfer date.
The process starts with an Agreement for Sale. The buyer pays an initial booking deposit check (10% of the sale price). If the transaction is successful, this deposit is returned to the buyer after the property is transferred to their name.
These answers cover the most frequently asked questions about property investments in Dubai, offering a comprehensive guide for both new and experienced investors.
Questions about renting in Dubai
To rent in Dubai, you need a valid passport, UAE Residence Visa, and Emirates ID. Corporate tenants require a valid trade license, the General Manager’s passport copy (if signing), and the occupant’s passport.
When leasing a property in Dubai, you’ll need to pay:
- The agreed annual rent, typically through post-dated cheques (PDCs).
- A security deposit, generally 5-10% of the annual rent.
- The broker’s commission, also typically 5-10% of the annual rent.
- DEWA security deposit (AED 2,200-4,200), and potentially Empower for district cooling.
- AED 175 for Ejari registration.
A security deposit is paid by the tenant to cover potential losses or damages. It typically ranges from 5% for unfurnished to 10% for furnished properties. It covers loss of rent, property damage, lost security keys, and non-wear-and-tear repairs.
Yes, you can use a third-party cheque (usually from first-degree relatives). You’ll need a Letter of Indemnity from the third party and their passport and Emirates ID.
To register Ejari, you’ll need a copy of the title deed, tenancy contract, landlord’s passport, and tenant’s passport and visa page. Registration costs AED 175, and you can visit any Ejari registration office, like Al Manara Centre or Al Barsha Mall, for same-day processing.
No, RERA regulates rental increases in Dubai. The RERA Rent Calculator determines allowed rent increases based on the official rental index.
Yes, but you must notify the landlord two months in advance and pay a cancellation penalty of two months’ rent. All utility bills must be settled before termination.
These are some of the most common questions about renting property in Dubai, providing clarity on the process and helping tenants understand their rights and obligations.