FAQ

Buyers FAQ

Are foreigners restricted from buying property in Dubai?

No, anyone can buy property in Dubai across all designated freehold and leasehold developments, whether through primary sales directly from developers or in the secondary resale market.

Leasehold or Freehold?

Reasonable service charges are payable to developers or homeowners’ associations for the maintenance of common areas, landscaping, and waste management. These charges vary by development and are typically calculated based on the built-up area of your property.

What happens if the property I purchase is already tenanted?

As the new property owner, you assume the existing tenancy along with all terms and conditions of the lease agreement. A prorated rent-back amount can be included in the sales contract, and all future rental payments must be updated to reflect your ownership. Additionally, the security deposit paid by the tenant to the previous landlord must be transferred to you, as the new landlord, who will be responsible for returning it when the tenant vacates.

Do I need to be in Dubai to complete my purchase?

If you are unable to be in Dubai, a Power of Attorney (POA) can be used to purchase property on your behalf. A POA can be arranged in person at Dubai Courts, internationally, or remotely online from the comfort of your home. Triple Edge Properties will guide you through the entire process when purchasing through our company.

Are there any other costs I need to consider & what taxes must be paid?

When purchasing a resale property in Dubai, the following costs may apply:
- Real Estate Agent Commission: Typically, 2% of the purchase price, or a minimum fixed amount, paid to the broker handling your transaction.
- Sales Progression Fee: AED 4,000 + 5% VAT for managing the contract and transaction process.
- Dubai Land Department (DLD) Transfer Fee: 4% of the purchase price, payable by the buyer.
- Transfer Office Fee: AED 4,000 to complete the formalities of ownership transfer.
  - Note: DLD and Transfer Office fees may be split between buyer and seller depending on the sale agreement.
- VAT: 5% VAT applies to agency commissions and Transfer Office charges as service providers. Capital gains taxes do not apply.
- Mortgage Registration Fee (if applicable):25% of the loan value. Mortgages are exempt from other taxes.
- Power of Attorney (POA) Fee: AED 5,250 per individual and per property, if representation is required.

Company Purchases: Additional POA or service fees may apply; details are available on request.

Does ownership entitle you to residency?

The Dubai government offers property visas to investors who meet certain conditions.

2-Year Property Visa: Available for completed properties valued at AED 750,000 and above.
5-Year Property Visa: Available for completed properties valued at AED 2 million and above.

Property owners can also sponsor additional family members, including a maid or driver. Please note that this visa does not grant permission to work in Dubai.
Triple Edge Properties works with qualified and reputable partners who can assist you throughout the application process, ensuring a smooth and secure experience.

What is the investment potential of Dubai property?

At Triple Edge Properties, we leverage insider market knowledge to identify developments with the strongest potential for growth. Investors in Dubai can enjoy high capital appreciation and rental yields ranging from 6–10%, making the city a highly attractive property market.
With government initiatives and regulations that protect the real estate sector, coupled with the UAE’s strategic location attracting international investors, Dubai offers an unparalleled opportunity to turn your property investment dreams into reality.

Sellers FAQ

What documents do I require to sell my property?

Title Deed: Obtained through registration with the Dubai Land Department.
No Objection Certificate (NOC): Issued by the developer, confirming the property is free from liabilities such as outstanding mortgages, unpaid instalments, or service fees.
Identification & Supporting Documents: Original passport and any documents or receipts related to the original sale and the current status of the property.
Tenancy Agreement: Required if the property is rented.
Seller’s Agreement (Form A): Needed if the property was sold through a registered real estate agency.

Do I need to involve a lawyer when selling my property?

In many parts of the world, a lawyer is typically engaged when selling property. In Dubai, however, this is not always necessary. The contract of sale is a standard electronic document provided by the government, known as Form F or a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).

Where do the sale transaction and transfer of ownership take place?

All property transfers are now conducted through the designated Dubai Land Department Trustee Offices across Dubai. All parties involved in the transaction must be present, although a Power of Attorney (POA) can be delegated by the seller if needed.
When you handle a transfer through Triple Edge Properties, our team of experienced brokers will guide you on all required documents and payments, ensuring a smooth and efficient transfer process.

Is there a cost to register my property and get my title deed?

Off-Plan and Secondary Sales Registration in Dubai
For off-plan sales, land registration is completed with the developer in accordance with the original purchase. Registration fees are 4% of the purchase price and are VAT-exempt.
For secondary sales, the same 4% fee—known as the transfer fee—is payable at the time of ownership transfer. This cost can be shared between the seller and the buyer, depending on the agreement.

If I have a sitting Tenant, can I still sell my property?

Having a valid tenancy contract does not prevent you from selling your property. The tenancy will be transferred to the buyer, who will automatically inherit the existing terms and assume the role of landlord.
Refund any future rent for the remaining lease period, if applicable.
Transfer the tenant’s security deposit to the buyer.

Am I restricted on when I can sell my property?

As a seller, you are authorised to sell your fully paid and completed property on the resale market once you have received your Title Deed.
If the property is not yet completed or final payment is outstanding, the developer must be consulted to:
- Transfer the payment plan to the new owner.
- Confirm that all payment instalments are up to date in line with your original Contract of Sale.
Some contracts may stipulate that a certain percentage of the purchase price (e.g., 40%) must be paid before the developer approves a resale.
For off-plan property sales, developers may also set a Minimum Selling Price (MSP) to ensure resale prices do not undercut available primary sales.

What is the notice period I have to give to my Tenant if I want them to vacate so I can sell as vacant?

According to Law 33 of 2008, Article 25, a landlord may request eviction upon the expiry of a tenancy contract if they wish to sell the leased property. The tenant must be notified of the reason at least 12 months in advance, and the notification must be delivered either by Notary Public or registered mail.

How can I receive the money from the sales proceeds if I don’t have a local UAE bank account?

At the time of transfer, sales proceeds must be issued as a UAE Dirham Manager’s Cheque made payable to the owner(s) listed on the title deed. This cheque can be deposited and cleared in your home country bank account.
Many international banks offer multi-currency accounts, and opening a UAE Dirham account can speed up clearance. While UAE banks are generally accommodating, most now require a UAE resident visa to open an account.

How do I know if I am achieving a realistic market price for my property?

Relying solely on marketing materials from multiple agencies can be misleading when assessing your property’s value. A listed price may not reflect the actual selling price. Owners often depend on their chosen agency to provide a valuation, but this can vary between agencies depending on their experience, professionalism, and knowledge of the market.
At Triple Edge Properties, our specialist sales client managers provide historical data and factual market insights to support accurate valuations and help you achieve the right price for your property.
As a seller, you will be asked to sign a Seller’s Agreement (Form A), which confirms your instruction to list the property for sale.

Do I have to give the Tenant a further full one year contract if I have served the required notice 6 months ago?

The 12-month minimum notice period for eviction begins from the date the tenant receives the notice.
If the notice is issued more than 90 days before the current tenancy expires, you may choose to request that the notice period starts from the tenancy expiry date and runs until the end of the 12-month period.
Any changes to the tenancy contract must be made in writing at least 90 days before the tenancy expires, unless otherwise agreed within the terms of the contract.