A property registration fee must be paid to the Dubai Land Department (DLD) by the buyer of a property in Dubai. Four percent of the purchase price of the property is the normal registration charge. Usually, the buyer and seller split this cost equally, with each paying 2%. In actuality, though, it is typical for the buyer to pay the full cost.

Important Points:

Amount: 4% of what was originally paid
Shared: Usually paid for by the buyer, but usually shared by the seller as well

2. Commissioning Agency

In Dubai, the commission that real estate brokers charge for their services is typically equal to 2% of the sale price of the property. The buyer bears the cost of this fee. Before completing any transactions, it’s crucial to discuss and agree upon the commission rate with your real estate agent.

Important Points:

Sum: Two percent of the buying price
Accountability: Covered by the purchaser

3. Registration Fee for Mortgages

You will have to pay the DLD a mortgage registration fee if you are using a mortgage to finance your real estate purchase. The cost is composed of an administrative fee of AED 290 and 0.25% of the entire loan amount.

Important Points:

Amount: AED 290 plus 0.25% of the loan amount
Accountability: Covered by the purchaser

4. Transfer of Property Fee

Another tax levied by the DLD upon the transfer of property ownership is the property transfer fee. This cost is part of the 4% property registration fee. When transferring ownership of real estate, there are no other fees.

Important Information: Included in Registration Fee: No further charges

5. Service Charges: 

Property owners pay annual fees for the upkeep and repair of common facilities in apartment buildings and communities. These fees are set by the developer or homeowners’ association and vary based on the kind and location of the property.

Important Points:

Variable: Relies on the kind and location of the property
Accountability: Annually paid by property owners

6. VAT, or value-added tax

The UAE imposed a 5% VAT in January 2018 on a number of goods and services, including some real estate deals. With the exception of a developer’s initial, zero-rated sale of a new home, residential property sales and leases are often free from VAT.

Important Points:

Residential Real Estate: Generally exempt

Developer’s First Sale: Zero-rated

7. Additional Charges

Transactions involving real estate also involve other small fees, such as:

NOC Fees: Usually between AED 500 and AED 5,000, these fees cover obtaining a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the developer.
The title deed can be issued for a fee of AED 250.

Important Points:

AED 500 to AED 5,000 is the NOC fee.
AED 250 is the title deed issuance fee.

In summary

To make wise real estate investment decisions, it is vital to comprehend the various property taxes and fees in Dubai. Although real estate transactions can be expensive, Dubai still appeals to property investors because of its advantageous tax structure. Furthermore, this tax structure excludes capital gains, inheritance, and annual property taxes. You may guarantee a seamless and financially healthy investment process in Dubai’s thriving real estate market by being aware of these costs and making plans appropriately.