Dubai’s skyline evolves faster than almost any in the world — and so does the opportunity to own a piece of it. Off-plan properties, or homes sold before construction, have become the smart choice for investors and residents who want flexible payment options and long-term value. Yet, for first-time buyers, the process can seem layered and complex.
This guide walks you through every stage of the off-plan journey — from the initial expression of interest to the moment you turn the key to your new home.
1.Start with Research and Prepare Your Finances
Before committing funds to an off-plan property in Dubai, take time to understand the market. Define your purpose — are you buying a home or investing? — and set a clear budget. Explore neighborhoods, developer reputations, price trends, and potential rental yields.
As every buyer’s priorities differ, my role is to help you ask the right questions — the ones that truly matter when selecting the best project for your goals. I’ll help you compare multiple developments, understand payment-plan variations, and review completion timelines so you can make a confident, well-informed choice.
Pro tips:
- Vet the developer. Check their delivery record, RERA registration, and whether the project has an approved escrow account.
- Plan your financing early. Off-plan mortgages release funds in stages once a project reaches 40 % completion and you’ve paid 50 % yourself. Traditional handover mortgages remain common.
- Get documents ready. Keep your passport, visa, proof of address, and source-of-funds documentation handy for the KYC process — developers request them quickly.
I personally guide my clients through each of these steps — helping them vet developers, plan financing early, and organize all required documents — so every decision is informed, secure, and aligned with their goals.
2. Expression of Interest (EOI): Your First Step
An Expression of Interest (EOI) signals your intent to purchase. You complete a short form and pay a small refundable deposit — usually 2 % – 5 % of the unit price or AED 5,000 – 50,000. The EOI doesn’t legally bind you to buy, but it secures early access once the project launches.
Because demand can be intense, submitting an EOI early can mean the difference between securing your preferred unit or missing out.
3. Unit Allocation and Reservation
When the project launches, you’ll be invited to choose your unit. Review floor plans, views, parking, and service charges carefully. Your EOI converts into a reservation fee (around 5 %–10 %), followed by a down payment of roughly 20 % of the purchase price and the 4 % Dubai Land Department (DLD) registration fee — sometimes waived during promotions.
4. Signing the Sales & Purchase Agreement (SPA)
The SPA formalises your purchase. It outlines price, specifications, payment schedules, penalties, and dispute terms. Always have a legal or experienced broker review it. The SPA must include escrow details and confirm Oqood registration, which protects your off-plan ownership rights under Dubai law.
5. Oqood Registration — Safeguarding Your Ownership
After signing the SPA, the developer registers your contract in the DLD’s Oqood system. You’ll pay about 4 % of the property price plus admin fees and receive a digital certificate confirming ownership. Oqood registration is mandatory if you plan to resell or finance your property during construction.
6. Understanding Payment Plans
Developers structure payments around construction milestones — common plans include 20/80 or 30/70. Some offer post-handover options (e.g., 10/90), allowing you to pay most of the cost after completion. Always transfer funds to the escrow account, never directly to the developer.
If you’re taking a mortgage, note that banks release funds only after 40 % completion and once you’ve paid half the price yourself.
7. Reselling Before Completion
Investors sometimes choose to assign or resell their unit before handover. You usually need to have paid 30 %–40 % and obtain a No-Objection Certificate (NOC) from the developer. Standard DLD (4 %) and brokerage (~2 %) fees apply.
8. Monitoring Construction
Stay engaged while the project progresses. Request progress updates or site photos, and verify milestone certifications before releasing payments. Banks financing off-plan mortgages will also conduct their own inspections.
9. Preparing for Handover
As completion nears, you’ll receive a completion notice with your Property Index Number (PIN). You typically have 30 days to clear any remaining payments. Use this period to:
- Book a snagging inspection. Check finishes, plumbing, air-conditioning, and appliances. Professional snagging companies can save time and frustration.
- Collect final documents. You’ll need your Emirates ID or passport, the SPA, payment clearances, and DEWA and fire-safety certificates.
10. Handover, Title Deed, and After-Care
Once snagging issues are resolved and payments are complete, register your property with the DLD to receive the title deed (for a 4 % fee). This replaces your Oqood certificate and marks full ownership.
If you plan to lease the unit, register the Ejari contract and connect utilities. Buyers of properties worth AED 2 million or more may qualify for the Golden Visa.
Buyer Protections You Should Know
Dubai’s real-estate regulations are among the strongest in the region. Developers can’t sell units without RERA approval and an active escrow account. All payments must go through escrow, and buyers must sign and register their SPA in Oqood — ensuring transparency and protection at every stage.
For First-Time Investors
Buying off-plan in Dubai can be an incredibly rewarding experience. The combination of modern architecture, flexible payment plans, and strong capital growth potential continues to attract investors from around the world. By understanding the process — from Expression of Interest (EOI) to title deed — and working with a trusted advisor, you’ll move through each stage confidently and protect your investment from start to finish.
Every great investment starts with one conversation — and I’ll make sure your entire off-plan buying journey is clear, guided, and completely smooth and stress-free.
Let’s talk about your goals and find the perfect off-plan property in Dubai — whether it’s your first home or your next portfolio milestone.
📲 Message Tohid Fetrat on WhatsApp: +971 543 443 597
🌐 Visit: tohidfetrat.com
