HomizaiQuick summary
When buying in Dubai, allow about 4–5% on top of the price when buying off-plan from the developer, and about 6–7% for a ready home bought through a broker, then annual service charges that vary by area and building. Details below, calculator at the end.
The cost items one by one
| Item | Indicative amount | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Dubai Land Department (DLD) fee | 4% of the purchase price | Paid once at registration. Some developers absorb it in launch offers ("DLD waiver"). |
| Registration trustee office fee | AED 2,000 + 5% VAT (below 500k) · AED 4,000 + 5% VAT (500k and above) | Ready (secondary) purchases. |
| Oqood registration (off-plan) | A few thousand dirhams, set by the developer | Registers the preliminary sale contract in your name. Ask for the exact figure. |
| Title deed issuance at handover | About AED 580 | Title deed + map + knowledge and innovation fees. |
| Broker commission (ready only) | Typically 2% + 5% VAT | Buying off-plan directly from the developer, you pay no commission; the developer pays the marketing party. |
| Mortgage registration (if financed) | 0.25% of the loan + about AED 290 | Plus bank fees and valuation. |
| Annual service charges | From about AED 12 to 30 per sq ft in mid-market areas, considerably higher in prime areas | Varies by building and amenities; ask for the approved figure of each project. |
Indicative figures as of November 2026; they change. Verify in the developer's documents and on the Land Department website before committing.
What you do not pay when buying off-plan
- No broker commission: the price is the developer's price; the marketing party is paid by the developer.
- No service charges until handover: they start once you receive the unit.
- No income or capital-gains tax on residential property in the UAE today (the first sale of a residential property by the developer is zero-rated for 5% VAT).
But watch forSome developers add an "administrative" booking fee, or a transfer fee if you resell before handover (usually a percentage of the price or a fixed amount). Ask before signing.
Estimate your costs
Want the exact figure for a specific project?We work it out with the developer's actual payment plan in a free online meeting.