Checklist Before Booking an Off-Plan Property in Dubai (2025 Guide)

Wednesday, 15 October 2025

Investing in an off-plan property in Dubai offers an exciting opportunity to own a home in one of the world’s most vibrant cities while benefiting from flexible payment plans and potential capital appreciation. However, buying a property that is yet to be constructed requires careful consideration and legal due diligence. A thorough checklist ensures your investment is secure, compliant, and hassle-free.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to what you should check before booking an off-plan property in Dubai.

Table of Contents

• Verify Developer Registration with RERA
• Confirm Project Approval and Escrow Account
• Review the Sales and Purchase Agreement (SPA)
• Understand DLD Registration Fees
• Check for No Objection Certificate (NOC) on the Land
• Verify Payment Plan Structure
• Confirm Handover Timeline and Delay Compensation
• Understand Cancellation Terms and Exit Options
• Know the Developer’s Dispute Resolution Process
• Check for Existing Liens or Mortgages
• Understand Service Charges and Maintenance Fees
• Clarify Title Deed Issuance Timeline
• Check Golden Visa Eligibility
• Frequently asked questions

1. Verify Developer Registration with RERA

The first step is to ensure that the developer is registered with the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA), which operates under the Dubai Land Department (DLD).

Why it matters:

Only registered developers are legally allowed to sell off-plan properties in Dubai. This confirms that the developer meets all legal and financial standards, giving you peace of mind.

How to check:

Use the Dubai Land Department website or Dubai REST App to verify the developer’s registration.

2. Confirm Project Approval and Escrow Account

Ensure the project is approved by the DLD and has an Escrow Account regulated by the UAE Central Bank.

Why it matters:

Your payments should go directly into the project’s escrow account, safeguarding your money for construction purposes only.

How to check:

Request the Project Number and verify it via the Dubai REST App.

3. Review the Sales and Purchase Agreement (SPA)

The SPA is a legally binding contract between you and the developer. Key elements to review include:

• Property specifications (size, layout, floor)
• Total price and payment schedule
• Completion and handover dates
• Penalties for delay
• Termination and refund clauses

Tip: Hire a property lawyer to review the SPA and ensure all details are clear and legally sound.

4. Understand DLD Registration Fees

Buyers typically pay 4% of the property value as DLD registration fees.

Tip: Ask whether this fee is included in the advertised price to avoid surprises later.

5. Check for No Objection Certificate (NOC) on the Land

The land must be approved for sale and construction by Dubai authorities.

Why it matters:

Without a valid NOC, construction could be delayed or stopped. Always request proof of land ownership and NOC from the developer.

6. Verify Payment Plan Structure

Most off-plan projects offer flexible payment plans, such as:

• 10% booking
• 40% during construction
• 50% on handover

Tip: Ensure the plan aligns with project milestones and your financial capability.

7. Confirm Handover Timeline and Delay Compensation

Check that the SPA includes:

• Estimated handover date
• Grace period (usually 6–12 months)
• Compensation for delays

Why it matters:

This protects you legally if the project is delayed.

8. Understand Cancellation Terms and Exit Options

Know the conditions for cancellation:

• Refundable amounts
• Penalties or administrative fees
• Transfer options to another buyer

Tip: Having clear exit options ensures financial security in case of changing circumstances.

9. Know the Developer’s Dispute Resolution Process

Familiarize yourself with how disputes are resolved, either through:

• Developer’s internal resolution process
• RERA
• Dubai Courts or arbitration (if mentioned in the SPA)

Tip: Keep written records of all communications with the developer.

10. Check for Existing Liens or Mortgages

Ensure your unit is not tied to any third-party financial obligations, which could delay the title deed or handover.

11. Understand Service Charges and Maintenance Fees

Check for:

• Annual service fees (AED per sq. ft.)
• Sinking fund for future repairs

Tip: Verify estimates and ensure fees are RERA-approved.

12. Clarify Title Deed Issuance Timeline

Ensure the SPA mentions:

• Expected issuance timeframe
• Conditions for receiving the title deed

Why it matters:

You cannot legally sell, rent, or refinance the property without the title deed.

13. Check Golden Visa Eligibility

Properties worth AED 2 million or more may qualify for a 10-year UAE Golden Visa.

Tip: Confirm if the project meets eligibility requirements and understand the documents needed.

Purchasing an off-plan property in Dubai is a rewarding investment, but it requires thorough legal checks. By following this checklist, you can:

• Verify developer and project legitimacy
• Review SPA and payment plans
• Understand handover, exit, and dispute policies
• Ensure compliance with DLD and Golden Visa criteria

With these steps, you can confidently move forward with your off-plan property investment in Dubai, knowing your investment is secure and aligned with your goals.