Guide Selling in Dubai
Selling property in Dubai: steps and costs
From the first valuation to the day the title moves: the paperwork Dubai requires, who pays what, and where sales usually slow down.
Updated · 6 min read
Six steps to transfer
The order every Dubai resale follows.
- 01
Valuation
A price set against recent DLD transactions for the building and similar units, not asking prices on the portals.
- 02
Form A
The RERA agreement between you and your agent: the asking price, the commission and how long the listing runs.
- 03
Marketing
Every advert needs a DLD Trakheesi permit, issued against Form A and the title deed. No permit, no listing.
- 04
Offer and Form F
Once you agree a price, buyer and seller sign Form F, the sale contract. The buyer usually leaves a 10% deposit cheque with the agent.
- 05
NOC and clearances
The developer issues a no-objection certificate once service charges are paid. A mortgaged property needs a liability letter from the bank.
- 06
Transfer
At a DLD trustee office the title moves to the buyer, the bank is paid off if needed, and you receive the balance by manager's cheque.
What selling costs
| Cost | Typical amount | What to know |
|---|---|---|
| Agency commission | Usually 2% + VAT | Agreed in Form A. In Dubai the buyer often pays their own agent's 2%; what the seller pays is negotiable. |
| Developer NOC | Around AED 500–5,000 + VAT | Set by each developer, and only issued once service charges are up to date. |
| Service charges | Any arrears | Cleared before the NOC. Charges already paid ahead are often adjusted with the buyer. |
| Mortgage early settlement | Up to 1% or AED 10,000 | The UAE Central Bank cap on early-settlement fees, whichever is lower. The bank also charges for the liability letter. |
| DLD transfer fee | 4% (by agreement) | Paid by the buyer in most Dubai sales, though the contract can split it. |
Selling to buy again? See the buyer's costs and run the numbers in the mortgage calculator.
General guidance as of October 2026, not legal or tax advice. Fees vary by developer, bank and contract, so confirm them for your property before you list.