Thinking of Buying Off-Plan in Dubai? Read This First

The off-plan market in Dubai is booming — but behind the glossy brochures and tempting payment plans, there’s a lot buyers don’t see. If you’re considering an off-plan investment, here’s what you need to know before you sign.

1. Don’t Just Trust the Name — Check the Developer’s Track Record

Not all developers are created equal. A fancy launch event doesn’t guarantee timely delivery or good quality. Research is key.

• Look up the developer’s past projects. Were they completed on time?
• Visit the Dubai Land Department's "Mashrooi" portal to check project status.
• Ask your agent for honest feedback — a good one will tell you which developers to avoid.

2. Compare Prices Per Sqft — Not Just the Payment Plan

A 1% monthly payment sounds nice, but what's the real cost?

Here’s the real breakdown most buyers overlook:

DLD Fee: 4% of the property price

Trustee Fee (Land Department registration):

• AED 2,000 + 5% VAT (if property is under AED 500K)
• AED 4,000 + 5% VAT (if property is over AED 500K)

Agency Commission: Usually 2% of the purchase price

Mortgage Registration: 0.25% of loan value + AED 290 (if financing)

Bottom line: Always calculate the all-in cost, not just the headline price. Then compare the price per sqft to other options in the area to know if you’re actually getting value.

3. Location Still Matters More Than Hype

Don’t fall for a great price in the middle of nowhere. Location is still the #1 factor in long-term value — for both end-users and investors.

Before you commit:

• Visit the site — or at least schedule a video call with a trusted real estate advisor who can walk you through the community using maps, visuals, and developer master plans.
• Check infrastructure plans, government initiatives, and upcoming facilities nearby.
• Ask: Will people actually want to live or rent here in 3–5 years?

If the answer’s no, move on.

4. Only Pay Into an Escrow Account

It’s illegal in Dubai for developers to accept direct payments for off-plan units. Your money should go into a RERA-approved escrow account — this protects your investment.

✅ Double-check the project is officially registered with DLD
❌ Never transfer funds to a personal or company account outside the escrow

This is your biggest safety net in case of delays or cancellations.

5. Work With a RERA-Registered Agent — Not a Friend of a Friend

A licensed, RERA-registered agent has access to verified listings and can give you the full picture — not just what one developer wants you to see.

• Ask for their RERA license number
• Don’t just go with who’s offering the highest “deal” — trust experience and transparency

Good agents will help you avoid red flags and uncover better alternatives.

6. Know the Payment Plan — And Plan for the End

Not all payment plans are created equal — and the right one depends on your financial situation.

• Trusted developers like EMAAR typically offer 80/20 plans, meaning you pay 80% during construction and 20% on handover — a solid, straightforward structure.
• Others offer flexible post-handover payment plans, ideal for buyers who may not want or qualify for a mortgage. This structure helps you move in first and complete payments later.

Talk to your advisor about the payment schedule and your budget.
A wise payment plan today can turn into a high-yield investment in Dubai’s future.

Be Smart, Not Just Fast

Buying off-plan in Dubai can be an amazing investment — but only if you do your homework. The right developer, location, payment plan, and agent make all the difference.

At Baytify, we help you break down the hype and focus on what really matters — real numbers, real risk, and real value.

Want a shortlist of the top off-plan projects right now? Contact us today.

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