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Selling property in Dubai typically takes 30–60 days from listing to transfer for a cash buyer, and 45–90 days for a mortgaged buyer. The process involves signing RERA Form F, obtaining an NOC, and transferring at a DLD trustee office. Seller costs are 2% agent commission plus the NOC fee — no capital gains tax.
Step-by-Step: Selling in Dubai
Step 1: Valuation and Pricing Engage a RERA-registered agent who can access DLD transaction data (the official DARI system). Price against recent comparable sales, not portal asking prices. The DLD publishes all Dubai transactions publicly — buyers use this data and will negotiate accordingly.
Step 2: Sign RERA Form A (Listing Agreement) Dubai uses standardised RERA forms. Form A is the listing agreement between seller and agent, specifying the listing price, commission rate, and exclusivity terms. Your agent registers this with RERA.
Step 3: Market the Property Agent lists on Property Finder and Bayut with RERA permit number (required on all Dubai property listings). Qualified buyers are shown the property, typically with 24–48 hours notice.
Step 4: Sign RERA Form F (MOU) When you agree a price with a buyer, both parties sign RERA Form F — the Memorandum of Understanding. The buyer pays a 10% deposit (held by the agent or legal firm). Form F is legally binding.
Step 5: Obtain NOC from Developer The seller applies to the developer for a No Objection Certificate confirming no outstanding service charges or liabilities. NOC fees range from AED 500–10,000 depending on developer. Emaar and Nakheel typically take 5–10 business days. Smaller developers may take longer.
Step 6: Transfer at DLD Trustee Office Both parties attend a DLD-registered trustee office. The buyer brings manager's cheques for the purchase price and 4% DLD fee. The seller receives the net proceeds. New title deed issued to buyer. Typically 2–3 hours.
Seller Costs in Dubai
| Cost | Amount |
|---|---|
| Agent commission | 2% of sale price |
| NOC fee | AED 500–10,000 (developer-set) |
| Capital gains tax | Zero — UAE has no CGT |
| Mortgage discharge fee | AED 1,000–1,500 (if mortgaged) |
| Total seller cost | Approximately 2% + NOC |
How Long Does It Take?
- Cash buyer: 14–30 days from MOU to transfer
- Mortgaged buyer: 45–90 days (bank valuation, mortgage processing)
- Off-plan resale (Oqood transfer): Timeline varies — developer NOC can take longer
Key Difference from Abu Dhabi
Dubai uses RERA Form F (standardised MOU). Abu Dhabi uses a non-standardised MOU drafted by the agent. Dubai transfers happen at a DLD trustee office; Abu Dhabi transfers at ADREC registration centres.
DRE Advisory Note
The single biggest mistake Dubai sellers make is overpricing relative to DLD transaction data. Buyers check DARI before making any offer. A property priced 10% above comparable transactions will sit for months. Correctly priced properties in JVC, Dubai Marina, and Business Bay typically go under offer within 2–4 weeks.
Property in the UAE is governed by the official authorities below. Requirements and thresholds can change — always confirm current rules with the relevant authority before transacting.
- Dubai Land Department (DLD)The government authority that registers property ownership and transactions in Dubai.
- Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA)The regulatory arm of the Dubai Land Department, overseeing brokers, developers and escrow accounts.
- Dubai RESTThe Dubai Land Department’s official app for title deeds, transactions and property services.
- DARIThe Dubai Land Department’s official platform for real estate data, registration and services.
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