Buyers in Dubai pay several costs on top of the purchase price, the largest being the 4% Dubai Land Department (DLD) transfer fee. On the latest median deal of AED 1.65 million, that fee alone is AED 66,000. This guide explains each cost and works through an illustrative example.
Market context
Dubai Land Department (DLD) open data, dated 23 October 2026, records 367 sales worth AED 1.81 billion, with a median price of AED 1.65 million. Off-plan deals made up 60% of the total. We use the median only as a realistic price for the examples below. For wider trends, see our market news.
The main fees at a glance
| Cost | Usual rule | On AED 1,650,000 (illustrative) |
|---|---|---|
| DLD transfer fee | 4% of price, plus a small admin fee (AED 580 is the usual figure) | AED 66,000 + admin fee |
| Trustee (registration office) fee | AED 4,000 for properties above AED 500,000, plus 5% VAT | AED 4,200 |
| Agency commission | Commonly 2% of price plus 5% VAT on resale; negotiable | AED 34,650 |
| Mortgage registration | 0.25% of the loan plus a small fee | About AED 3,590 on an 80% loan |
On this example, DLD, trustee and agency costs total roughly AED 105,000, or about 6.4% of the price, before any mortgage costs. Treat this as an estimate, not a quote.
DLD transfer fee
The 4% fee is paid to register the title in your name. By custom the buyer pays it, though this can be negotiated. On off-plan purchases it is normally due when the sale is registered with the DLD, early in the payment plan.
Agency commission
On resale, 2% plus VAT is the common rate. On new off-plan launches, the developer usually pays the agent, so buyers often pay no separate commission. Ask in writing before you reserve. Browse Dubai off-plan projects to compare options.
Trustee fee
Resale transfers are completed at a DLD-authorised registration trustee office. Its fee is fixed by rule, with a lower tier for properties up to AED 500,000. Confirm the current figure before transfer day.
Mortgage costs
- Registration with the DLD: 0.25% of the loan, plus a small fee.
- Bank arrangement fee: set by each lender, often a percentage of the loan. Compare offers.
- Valuation fee: paid to the bank's valuer; it varies.
- Down payment: Central Bank loan-to-value limits depend on residency, price and whether it is your first home. Check the current limits with your bank.
Service charges
Service charges are an annual running cost, usually charged per square foot and set per building or community under the regulator's rules. They vary widely, so ask for the latest charge and any arrears before you buy. Off-plan buyers should ask for the expected charge in the sales documents.
What to check before you pay
- Which costs are in the developer's payment plan and which are extra.
- Whether the seller or developer has any waiver or offer on the DLD fee.
- Whether VAT applies to your specific transaction.
Fee schedules can change, so confirm figures with the DLD or with Dani. Our investing FAQ and buying guide cover more. This article is information, not financial advice.
Contact Dani on WhatsApp for prices and advice: message Dani.
Frequently asked questions
How much is the DLD fee on a median Dubai property?
The DLD transfer fee is 4% of the price. On the AED 1.65 million median in the latest Dubai Land Department data, that is AED 66,000, plus a small admin fee.
Do buyers pay agency commission on off-plan purchases?
Usually the developer pays the agent on new off-plan launches, so buyers often pay no separate commission. Confirm this in writing before reserving. Off-plan was 60% of the 367 deals in the latest data.
What are the extra costs if I buy with a mortgage?
Expect DLD mortgage registration (0.25% of the loan plus a small fee), a bank arrangement fee, a valuation fee and a down payment. Bank fees and loan limits vary, so check current terms with your lender.
This article is general information about the Dubai property market, not financial advice. Prices and regulations change; ask for up-to-date details before you buy.
