Off-plan property made up 62% of the 476 deals in the latest Dubai Land Department (DLD) data, dated 22 October 2026. Those deals were worth AED 1.06 billion, with a median price of AED 1.29 million. This guide explains the seven steps of an off-plan purchase, from reservation to handover.
The market context
The figures below come from DLD data and are context only. They do not predict prices or returns.
- Deals: 476
- Total value: AED 1.06 billion
- Median price: AED 1.29 million
- Off-plan share of deals: 62%
Off-plan is therefore a main route into the market, so it helps to know how the process works.
The seven steps at a glance
| Step | What happens |
|---|---|
| 1. Research | Check the developer, the project and the payment plan. |
| 2. Reservation | Pay a booking deposit and sign a reservation form to hold the unit. |
| 3. SPA | Sign the Sale and Purchase Agreement and pay the initial instalment. |
| 4. Oqood | The sale is registered on the DLD's interim register. |
| 5. Escrow payments | Instalments go into the project's escrow account. |
| 6. Handover | Inspect the unit, list defects and collect the keys. |
| 7. Title deed | Final registration and title deed in your name. |
1. Research the developer and project
Look at the developer's delivered projects and the location. You can browse all Dubai off-plan projects, or filter by developer. Confirm that the project is registered with the regulator and that the agent you use holds a valid broker licence.
2. Reservation
You choose a unit and pay a booking deposit with a signed reservation form. The deposit amount and the terms on cancellation differ by developer. Read what happens to the deposit if you do not proceed before you pay.
3. Sale and Purchase Agreement (SPA)
The SPA is the main contract. It sets the price, payment plan, expected completion date and what happens in case of delay or default. The first instalment is normally due on signing or shortly after, but the percentage and timing are set by each developer. Have the document checked before you sign.
4. Oqood registration
Oqood is the DLD's registration of an off-plan sale on its interim register. It records you as the buyer of that unit. The DLD registration fee is generally 4% of the purchase price, plus smaller administrative charges. Confirm the exact fees and who pays what with Dani or the DLD, as they can change.
5. Escrow payments
Dubai law requires developers to collect off-plan buyers' payments in a regulated escrow account for that project. Funds are released as construction progresses. Pay only into the account named in your SPA. Never pay to a personal or unrelated company account.
6. Handover
When the building is complete, you are notified and the final instalment falls due. Inspect the unit carefully, list any defects (snagging) in writing and ask for them to be fixed. Ask also about service charges, which are paid once the unit is handed over.
7. Title deed
After completion and final payments, the sale is registered and a title deed is issued in your name. Your off-plan registration is then replaced by the title deed.
Practical checks
- Budget for the DLD fee and other charges on top of the price.
- Keep every receipt, and the payment plan schedule.
- Ask about mortgage options for off-plan early, as bank rules vary.
More answers are in our investing FAQ and on the Buy Dubai Real Estate page. This is information, not investment advice.
Contact Dani on WhatsApp for prices and advice: send an enquiry.
Frequently asked questions
How much of the latest Dubai deal data was off-plan?
Off-plan made up 62% of the 476 deals in the latest Dubai Land Department (DLD) data, dated 22 October 2026.
What is the median price in the latest DLD data?
The median price was AED 1.29 million across the 476 deals, which had a combined value of AED 1.06 billion.
What is Oqood and what does it cost?
Oqood is the DLD's interim registration of an off-plan sale. The DLD registration fee is generally 4% of the price, plus administrative charges. Confirm the exact amounts with Dani or the DLD before you buy.
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.
