Introduction

Transferring property ownership in Dubai involves more than signing a contract—it’s a multi-step process governed by the Dubai Land Department (DLD) and Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA). Typically taking 2–3 weeks, the process includes signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) or SPA, obtaining NOCs, visiting a DLD-approved Trustee Office, paying transfer and mortgage registration fees, and receiving your new title deed. This guide offers a clear, step‑by‑step breakdown to help you navigate it confidently and avoid common delays

 

1. Sign the MoU or Sale & Purchase Agreement (SPA)

• Begin with a MoU (Form F) or SPA, depending on whether it’s a secondary or off‑plan sale.

• Typically, a 10% deposit is paid at this stage.

• The document outlines price, payment schedule, responsibilities, and completion terms

 

2. Obtain Developer No Objection Certificate (NOC)

• Needed in freehold areas to confirm no pending dues or violations.

• Issued by the developer, HOA, or master authority in 3–7 working days.

• Costs range between AED 500–5,000

 

3. Property Valuation (If Financing)

• Required if you’re taking a mortgage.

• Conducted by a DLD-approved valuer to determine accurate market value.

• Fees range from AED 2,500–3,500

 

4. Schedule Trustee Office Appointment

• Visit any DLD-approved Trustee Office for legal transfer.

• Trustee Offices act as intermediaries; they verify documents and handle payments securely

 

Documents needed:

1. Original title deed

2. MoU/SPA copy

3. NOC

4. IDs and passport copies for both buyer and seller

5. Passport+ID for POA holders (if applicable)

6. Manager’s cheque (sale amount + all fees)

 

5. Pay Transfer & Admin Fees

Buyer typically pays:

• 4% DLD Transfer Fee of sale price

• AED 250–580 admin or title‑deed issuance fee

• Trustee Fee: AED 2,000–4,000 (for properties >AED 500k) or AED 2,100 (incl. VAT) under AED 500k

• Mapping fees (villa, apartment, land) AED 100–250 + AED 10 knowledge + AED 10 innovation per drawing

• Mortgage Reg. Fee (if applicable): 0.25% of loan + AED 290 admin

 

6. Verification & Document Approval

• Trustee confirms all documents and payments are correct.

• DLD processes the transfer—usually in 25 minutes, though total may take 1–3 days

 

7. Receive New Title Deed

• Upon approval, a new e-Title Deed and property map are issued in the buyer’s name (or to the bank if mortgaged)

 

8. Register Mortgage (If Applicable)

• Mortgage registration occurs simultaneously—0.25% of loan + AED 290

• For existing mortgages, coordination is required to clear or transfer the loan.

 

9. Post-Transfer Formalities

• Transfer DEWA, Empower, and telecoms accounts.

• Register Ejari for rental if relevant.

• Schedule handover meeting or move-in permissions

 

🔄 Special Scenarios