Dubai Property Buying and Selling Guide - A Legal Guide
                     A Legal Guide for Buying and Selling Property in Dubai 
 
Dubai is renowned for its lavish lifestyle and excellent amenities, making it a highly desirable location for 
property investment. However, navigating the legal process of buying or selling property can be daunting. 
In this article, we will outline the legal procedure for buying or selling property in Dubai, step by step. 
 
Buying Process 
Depending on whether a mortgage is involved, the process of buying property in Dubai might take two 
to 10 weeks. A full cash transaction is the quickest option and saves buyers from potential delays. 
Transaction costs for buying property in Dubai vary, with the cost being 3% for low-value properties with 
no broker. In addition, 7.5% for properties valued over Dh 5M with a full suite of an adviser. 
 
Step 1: Collect the Necessary Documents 
To purchase a property in Dubai, buyers must have all necessary documents, including a residence visa 
copy, passport, Emirates ID, and passport-size photos. 
 
Step 2: Mortgage Approval 
For those requiring a mortgage, bank approval usually takes two weeks, with paperwork fees varying 
depending on the purchaser's profession. To apply for a mortgage, buyers must inform the bank about 
their employment status, and provide a six-month bank statement, visa, Emirates ID, payslip, and a letter 
of incorporation from their employer. General terms and conditions for a mortgage are included in the 
pre-approval. 
 
Step 3: Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) 
Both parties must sign the MOU upon the conclusion of the deal. The Dubai Land Department's official 
website offers direct access to downloading the MOU (DLD). In some cases, terms and conditions 
regarding the money transfer are also included in the addendum. Any authorized registration office 
trustee from DLD can register the MOU. At this time, both parties and the agent should be present. The 
buyer gives a cheque for 10 percent of the sale value, which is only redeemable if the buyer decides not 
to buy the property. If both parties do not agree to proceed, then a mutual penalty is decided, which is 
less than the amount mentioned in the security cheque. 
 
Step 4: Registration and Clearances 
 
The registration trustee then sends details to DLD, where the clearance procedure finishes in exchange 
for a nominal fee. 
 
Step 5: NOC and Mortgage Approval 
The buyer must obtain a NOC from the developer and mortgage approval from the bank. Which usually 
takes five days after clearing all the dues. 
 
Step 6: Transfer and Payment 
In the final step, buyers must book a transfer and pay the full amount, including the fee for the issuance 
of the title deed. It is also mandatory for buyers to write a will in the contract, defining what should happen 
to the property in the event of any unanticipated circumstances. 
 
Selling Process 
The process of selling property in Dubai involves two parties, and the seller must perform specific steps 
in the presence of the buyer. 
Step 1: Collect the Necessary Documents 
Sellers must have all necessary documents required for the transfer of the property, including an Emirates 
ID card, official documents of the property, a title deed, and a passport. Our expert recommendation is to 
hire a property agent to avoid any potential hassles in the selling process. The seller must mention the 
end date of the signed contract if they do not find any potential buyer or if they decide to postpone the 
idea of selling their property. 
 
Step 2: Clearing Dues 
The seller must pay all dues to the developer before selling the property. Including maintenance, utility 
and paid amenity charges. 
 
Step 3: Mortgage Values and Closeout Procedures 
If there is a mortgage involved, the seller must contact the bank to ascertain the correct process. Each 
bank has different mortgage values and closeout procedures. 
 
Conclusion 
Buying and selling property in Dubai can be a lucrative investment. But it also involves a complex legal 
process. Buyers and sellers must have a clear understanding of the necessary steps and documents 
required to ensure a smooth transaction. With the help of this guide, you can navigate the legal process 
with ease, ensuring a successful purchase or sale of your property. Remember, it is always advisable to 
seek expert advice from a property agent or a legal professional. To help you make informed decisions 
throughout the process. It is because, time-by-time, requirement change with new rules and regulations.