Dubai is well known for its vibrant real estate market and a major part of this market is made up of off-plan properties. Buying off-plan means purchasing a property directly from a developer before construction is completed. For many buyers, this option offers the chance to secure a modern home at an attractive price while benefiting from flexible payment plans.

An off-plan property is one that is still under development or has not yet been built. Buyers enter into an agreement with the developer, make staged payments during construction, and receive the property once it is completed and handed over. All payments are safeguarded through escrow accounts regulated by the Dubai Land Department, ensuring that funds are only used for the approved project.

One of the main advantages of buying off-plan is affordability. Developers usually offer lower entry prices compared to completed homes, which makes off-plan properties attractive to first-time buyers as well as investors. Flexible payment structures are another benefit, allowing buyers to spread costs across the construction period. Many buyers also appreciate that they are purchasing brand-new homes built with the latest designs, technologies, and amenities.

While off-plan properties offer significant benefits, there are important factors to keep in mind. Delivery timelines can sometimes be delayed, so choosing a reputable developer with a strong track record is essential. Financing is another consideration, as banks usually only provide mortgages for the final payment at handover, not for the instalments during construction. Buyers should also carefully review the sales contract, understand the handover conditions, and ensure all payments go into the official escrow account.

Another key point is that off-plan properties do not generate income while under construction. Unlike completed homes, they cannot be rented out until they are finished and handed over, which means buyers should not expect rental returns during the building period

Off-plan projects are available throughout the city, particularly in new and fast-growing communities. Dubai Creek Harbour, Dubai Hills Estate, Mohammed Bin Rashid City, and Business Bay are among the most popular areas where buyers can find off-plan developments that combine modern living with attractive pricing and strong growth potential.

Off-plan properties give buyers the opportunity to secure a home in Dubai at a lower cost with flexible payment terms. At the same time, it is important to be informed, work with registered developers and agents, and have realistic expectations about construction timelines. For those who plan carefully, buying off-plan can be an excellent way to enter Dubai’s property market and benefit from the city’s ongoing growth

• DLD transfer fee: 4% of the purchase price + AED 580 admin fee for apartments and offices or AED 430 for land or AED 40 for off-plan

• Title deed registration fee: AED 2,000 for properties below AED 500,000; AED 4,000 for properties above AED 500,000 + 5% VAT

• Agency commission: 2% of the purchase price + 5% VAT

• Conveyancing Fee: AED 6,000 to AED 10,000

• DLD Mortgage registration fee (if applicable): 0.25% of the loan amount + AED 290 admin fee

• Bank Mortgage Arrangement Fee: 1% of the loan amount + 5% VAT

• Property Valuation Fee: AED 2,500 – AED 3,500 + 5% VAT

• No objection certificate (NOC) fee: AED 500 – 5,000 depending on the developer

• Home and Contents Insurance: Approximately AED 1,000

• Life Insurance: Approximately 0.4-0.8% per annum on the decreasing loan balance

• Escrow account payments: all off-plan payments must be made into a DLD-approved escrow account, ensuring funds are used only for the specific project

For a detailed breakdown, view our cost overview for buying a property in Dubai.