District Intelligence content is indicative only and does not constitute investment advice. Consult a licensed District Real Estate advisor before making any property decision.
The total cost of buying property in Abu Dhabi is approximately 4–5% of the purchase price on top of the property cost itself. On a AED 2,000,000 apartment you should budget an additional AED 80,000–100,000 in transaction costs — materially lower than Dubai.
The Complete Cost Breakdown
ADM Registration Fee — 2% The Abu Dhabi Department of Municipalities and Transport charges 2% of the purchase price on all property transfers. Paid by the buyer at transfer. On AED 2M that is AED 40,000.
Agent Commission — 2% Standard buyer agent commission in Abu Dhabi is 2% of purchase price. On AED 2M that is AED 40,000. Unlike Dubai, there is no separate seller commission convention — agents typically represent one party.
Trustee/Transfer Fee — AED 2,000–4,000 ADREC charges a fixed processing fee for the transfer registration, typically AED 2,000–4,000 depending on property value.
Mortgage Registration Fee — 0.1% (if financing) Abu Dhabi's mortgage registration fee is 0.1% of the loan value — significantly lower than Dubai's 0.25%. On a AED 1.5M loan that is AED 1,500.
NOC Fee — AED 500–3,000 The developer issues a No Objection Certificate confirming no outstanding charges. Typically paid by the seller.
Total Cost Summary
| Cost | Amount (AED 2M purchase) |
|---|---|
| ADM registration fee 2% | AED 40,000 |
| Agent commission 2% | AED 40,000 |
| Transfer fee | AED 3,000 |
| Mortgage registration 0.1% | AED 1,500 (if financed) |
| Total | ~AED 84,500 (4.2%) |
Dubai Comparison
Dubai charges 4% DLD fee versus Abu Dhabi's 2% ADM fee. Total transaction costs in Dubai are typically 6–8%. Abu Dhabi is more cost-efficient to enter, which partly explains stronger yields — lower entry cost on similar rental income.
DRE Advisory Note
Abu Dhabi has no property tax, capital gains tax, or inheritance tax. The 2% ADM fee is a one-time cost. Annual holding costs are limited to service charges (AED 10–30 per sqft per year depending on building).
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.
- Abu Dhabi Real Estate Centre (ADREC)The authority responsible for property registration and real estate regulation in Abu Dhabi.
- TAMMThe Abu Dhabi Government’s unified platform for government and property-related services.
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