How Do You Transfer Ownership of an Off-Plan Property Before Completion?
Saturday, 8 November 2025
Buying an off-plan property in Dubai comes with exciting benefits — flexible payment plans, modern designs, and the opportunity to invest early in fast-growing communities. But what if your plans change before the project is completed? The good news is that transferring ownership of an off-plan property before completion is possible, provided it’s done correctly and through official channels.
This guide walks you through the safe, legal, and efficient steps to transfer your off-plan property before handover — helping you protect your investment and ensure a smooth transition.
Table of Contents
- Understanding Off-Plan Property Transfers
- Step-by-Step Guide to Transferring Ownership Before Completion
- Fees and Documents Required
- Tips for a Safe Off-Plan Transfer
- Frequently asked questions
Understanding Off-Plan Property Transfers
An off-plan property transfer happens when the original buyer (seller) sells their property to another buyer before construction is complete and before receiving the final title deed.
In Dubai, this process is regulated by the Dubai Land Department (DLD) and requires the developer’s approval.
Such transfers are quite common, especially when the market is performing well and property values have appreciated since the initial purchase.
Step-by-Step Guide to Transferring Ownership Before Completion
1. Review Your Sale Agreement
Start by reviewing your Sales and Purchase Agreement (SPA) to confirm the terms related to resale or transfer.
Most developers allow a resale only after a specific percentage of the payment plan is completed (commonly 30% to 50%).
Check for clauses outlining resale eligibility, transfer fees, and required approvals.
2. Obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC)
Before proceeding with the transfer, the seller must obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the project’s developer.
This document confirms that:
- All due payments have been cleared
- No outstanding service or administrative fees remain
- The developer consents to the ownership transfer
NOC fees usually range from AED 500 to AED 5,000, depending on the project.
3. Visit the Developer’s Office for Initial Approval
Once the NOC is ready, both the buyer and seller must visit the developer’s sales office to initiate the ownership transfer request.
Here, the developer verifies payment records, confirms eligibility, and provides final approval for the resale.
The developer then issues a document authorizing the DLD to proceed with the ownership transfer.
4. Finalize the Transfer at the Trustee Office
After receiving the developer’s approval, both parties must visit a DLD-approved Trustee Office to complete the ownership transfer.
At this stage:
- The buyer provides a manager’s cheque for the payment
- The seller receives the funds securely
- Applicable DLD transfer fees (4% of property value) are paid
- The Oqood (off-plan registration certificate) is updated with the new owner’s name
Once processed, the buyer officially becomes the new owner of the off-plan unit.
5. Update Mortgage or Financing (If Applicable)
If either party has a mortgage involved, the respective bank must issue a liability letter and coordinate directly with the DLD to settle outstanding balances.
This step ensures that the property is legally transferred without financial encumbrances.
Fees and Documents Required
Common Fees:
- DLD Transfer Fee: 4% of the property price
- NOC Fee: AED 500 – AED 5,000
- Trustee Office Fee: AED 2,100 or AED 4,200 (depending on value)
- Oqood Update Fee: AED 250
Required Documents:
- Original Sales and Purchase Agreement (SPA)
- NOC from the developer
- Passports and Emirates IDs of both buyer and seller
- Payment receipts for cleared installments
- Mortgage documents (if applicable)
Tips for a Safe Off-Plan Transfer
To ensure your transaction is smooth and secure, follow these best practices:
- Work only through licensed trustee offices and DLD channels
- Verify all documents carefully for correct names and details
- Clear outstanding payments before applying for the NOC
- Avoid informal agreements or direct cash transactions
- Consult qualified professionals for document review and process guidance
These steps protect both parties and ensure that the transfer complies with Dubai’s strict real estate regulations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I sell my off-plan property before it is completed in Dubai?
Yes. You can sell your off-plan property before completion once you’ve paid a required percentage (usually 30%–50%) of the total price and received approval from the developer.
What is a No Objection Certificate (NOC) in property transfers?
An NOC is issued by the developer to confirm that all dues have been cleared and there are no objections to the ownership transfer.
How long does it take to transfer ownership of an off-plan property?
Once all documents and fees are ready, the actual transfer at the DLD Trustee Office typically takes less than an hour.
What fees are involved in transferring an off-plan property?
You’ll need to pay the 4% DLD transfer fee, the developer’s NOC fee, and a trustee office fee, among others.
Can I transfer an off-plan property if I have a mortgage?
Yes, but your bank will need to issue a liability letter, and the outstanding mortgage must be cleared or transferred before the ownership change is finalized.
