DUBAI INVESTOR NOTES · REVIEWED 19 OCTOBER 2026
Dubai property buying costs: a practical checklist
Budget for the transaction around the property, as well as the property itself.
Clarify who pays the transfer fee
DLD’s property sale registration schedule states 2% seller and 2% buyer. The total is 4%; allocation in the agreement matters. Many buyers budget the full 4%. Confirm your signed terms and the transaction type.
Allow for trustee and documentation fees
DLD lists service partner fees of AED 4,000 plus VAT at AED 500,000 or above, and AED 2,000 plus VAT below that. Title, map and other fees depend on the property and service. Always obtain a transaction-specific quote.
Financing brings extra costs
A mortgage can add processing, valuation, registration and insurance costs. Keep these separate from the down payment. The calculator includes an editable bank-processing assumption and an estimated registration budget.
Keep a reserve
Service charges, utility deposits, furnishing and maintenance can fall outside closing costs. Ask for current statements, confirm any outstanding amounts and keep an appropriate liquidity buffer.
Editorial planning guidance. Sources and limitations.