Selling in Dubai is straightforward once you know the steps and costs. This guide covers pricing strategy, the paperwork from listing to transfer, what selling costs you, and how to get the strongest result.
The single biggest driver of a good sale is realistic pricing. Anchor to achieved (not asking) prices for comparable units in your building or community, adjust for floor, view and condition, and watch days-on-market. Overpricing in a liquid market simply lets fresher, sharper listings sell first while yours goes stale.
Once you accept an offer: sign the Form F (MOU) and take the buyer’s 10% deposit; apply for the developer NOC (clearing any service-charge arrears); if you have a mortgage, arrange settlement so the bank releases the title at transfer; then complete at the DLD trustee office, where the buyer’s payment is handed over and the title transfers. The mirror image of the buying process.
If your property is mortgaged, the buyer’s funds (or their bank’s) settle your outstanding loan at transfer, and the bank discharges its registration. Where the buyer is also financing, sequencing matters — your agent and the trustee office coordinate the settlement and new mortgage registration on the same day. Expect a small early-settlement fee from your lender.
The main cost is the agency fee, around 2% + VAT. You must clear any service-charge arrears before the NOC is issued, and settle mortgage-discharge costs if applicable. There is no capital-gains tax on your profit. Net of the agency fee and any loan settlement, the proceeds are yours.
Presentation pays: professional photos, a tidy, well-lit unit and flexible viewings routinely achieve a higher price and a faster sale than the same home marketed poorly.
Liquidity is generally high, but it varies by community and by incoming supply — selling before a wave of new handovers in your area protects price. If you are not forced to sell, align your exit with a strong rental index and limited competing stock. An independent agent who actually knows your community will advise on the window honestly.
The main cost is the agency fee of around 2% + VAT. You must also clear any service-charge arrears before the NOC, and pay a small early-settlement fee if you have a mortgage. There is no capital-gains tax.
Yes. The developer issues a No Objection Certificate confirming service charges are paid and there is no objection to the transfer — it is required before the DLD will register the sale.
Yes. The buyer’s funds settle your outstanding loan at transfer and the bank discharges its registration. Your agent and the trustee office coordinate the timing.
No. Individuals pay no capital-gains tax on the sale of property in Dubai.
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