Every Cost, Explained
Tap any item to learn more. The fees apply whether you buy off-plan or in the secondary market — differences are noted.
A professional inspector checks for defects, leaks, and structural issues. Essential for resale properties. Off-plan snagging happens at handover when the developer delivers your unit.
Banks charge a processing fee for mortgage applications. Get pre-approved before you make offers — it shows sellers you're serious and speeds up the process. Not needed if buying cash.
Paid to reserve a property. Off-plan deposits are typically 5–10%. Secondary market is usually 10%. On a 750,000 AED property that's 37,500–150,000 AED. This counts toward your total payment.
An independent valuer confirms the property's market value for the bank. Required if you're taking a mortgage. Not needed for cash purchases or off-plan (bank finances differently).
A RERA-registered trustee office handles the title transfer. Costs include the trustee office fee (~4,000 AED) plus optional legal review. Off-plan uses an Oqood registration instead.
The biggest single fee. 4% of the purchase price plus AED 580 admin. On 750,000 AED = 30,580 AED. Always due at transfer. Some off-plan developers offer to cover part of this as a promotion.
Paid to the agent who found you the property. 2% + 5% VAT = 2.1% effective rate. On 750,000 AED = 15,750 AED. Off-plan purchases direct from developer usually have no buyer commission.
0.25% of the mortgage loan amount, paid to the DLD. On a 562,500 AED loan (75% LTV) = ~1,406 AED. Not applicable if you're a cash buyer or in some off-plan developer deals.
A No Objection Certificate from the original developer confirms no outstanding service charges on the property. Varies by developer. Not required for off-plan new purchases.
Dubai Electricity and Water Authority requires a refundable security deposit (2,000 AED studio/1BR, 4,000 AED for larger) plus a connection fee. Paid once, refunded when you sell or end connection.
Moving costs within Dubai: 1,000–3,000 AED. Basic furnishing for a studio: 10,000–20,000 AED. Full luxury setup: 50,000–100,000 AED. Off-plan new units are usually bare — budget accordingly.
Covers maintenance of common areas, pools, gym, security, elevators. Set by the building's owners association. A 500 sqft studio at 25 AED/sqft = 12,500 AED/year. Check RERA's service charge index before buying.
Building structure insurance is often included in service charges for apartments. Contents insurance for your belongings: 500–1,500 AED/year. If you have a mortgage, building insurance is mandatory.
DEWA (electricity + water): 300–800 AED/month for a studio. District cooling (chiller) in some buildings: 500–1,200 AED/month. Central A/C buildings have separate chiller fees — ask before buying.
Building management collects 10% of service charges into a sinking fund for major repairs. As a personal best practice, also reserve 1–2% of property value annually for internal maintenance and appliance replacement.
Cost Calculator
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Payment Plan Guide
What is an off-plan payment plan?
Instead of paying everything upfront, you pay in instalments during construction. This reduces your immediate cash outlay and gives you time to save for the final balance at handover.
20/80 Plan — Lowest entry, highest handover risk
You need the 80% ready at handover — via savings or a mortgage. Best if you expect strong appreciation before completion.
30/70 Plan — Most common balance
Payments spread over construction milestones. Popular for investors who plan to get a mortgage at handover or resell before completion.
Post-handover plans (if offered)
Some developers allow you to continue paying after you receive the keys — often at 0% interest. This significantly reduces the need for a large mortgage and can save you years of bank interest.
Kate vs Tom
Same budget, different markets. See exactly how the costs differ between off-plan and secondary market for a 750,000 AED property.
Pre-Purchase Checklist
Tick each item as you complete it. A well-prepared buyer moves faster and avoids costly surprises.
Top Tips for First-Time Buyers
DLD (4%), agency (2.1%), mortgage registration (0.25%), conveyancing — it adds up fast. Never assume you only need the purchase price.
A great deal can turn expensive with 40 AED/sqft service charges. Check the RERA service charge index — it's public and free.
Know exactly when the final payment is due and whether you'll need a mortgage. Delays happen — build in a 6-month buffer on your savings plan.
Banks consider your salary, existing loans, and residency status. UAE residents can borrow up to 75% LTV (first property). Non-residents: up to 50% LTV.
Even "new" resale units can have issues. A professional snagging report is your negotiating tool to get the seller to fix problems before you take the keys.
Buildings with central air conditioning charge a separate monthly chiller fee. In some buildings this exceeds DEWA. Always ask before committing.
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