Buying & selling Updated May 2026

Selling your property — the step-by-step

From valuation to title transfer typically takes 6–10 weeks for a cash buyer; 8–14 for a mortgaged one.

Selling a Dubai property is structured but involves several parties. Here's the realistic timeline.

1. Pricing & listing (week 1)

  • Get 2–3 valuations: from active brokers in your community, plus recent transactions on the DLD's Smart Valuation.
  • Decide: agent (2% + VAT) or direct.
  • Sign Form A with the agent.

2. Find a buyer (weeks 1–6)

  • Viewings, offers, negotiation. Cash offers move faster than mortgaged ones.

3. Sign Form F / MOU (week ~6)

  • Buyer pays a 10% deposit (held by the trustee or one of the brokers).
  • Both parties sign the MOU specifying transfer date.

4. Pre-transfer admin (weeks 6–9)

  • You apply for the developer NOC: settle service charges, get clearance (5–14 working days).
  • Buyer's mortgage (if any) is finalised; lender issues a manager's cheque to the seller.
  • If your unit is mortgaged, your bank issues a liability letter stating the settlement amount.

5. Transfer day (week 9–10)

  • All parties meet at a DLD-approved trustee office.
  • Seller settles existing mortgage if any, NOC presented, fees paid, title transferred. New title deed issued the same day.

What slows it down

  • NOC delays (start early).
  • Buyer mortgage approvals (build in 2 weeks).
  • Oqood units where the developer requires extra approvals.

Sources: standard DLD transfer process, broker market practice.

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Related questions

The 4% DLD transfer fee — and what else you'll pay

4% of the purchase price to the Land Department, plus admin and broker fees. Budget around 5–7% of price in total.

Mortgage basics for residents and non-residents

Residents typically borrow up to 80% LTV (75% for non-Emiratis on first home over AED 5M). Non-residents are capped lower.

NOC from the developer — what it is and how to get one

The developer's No Objection Certificate confirms service charges are paid up. You can't transfer ownership without it.
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