Cost of buying property in the UAE
See the full upfront cost of buying — itemised by emirate. Transfer fees differ across the UAE, and since 2025 these costs must be paid in cash, so it pays to budget accurately.
* Indicative figures. Transfer fees and admin charges vary by emirate — confirm current rates with the relevant land department.
- Dubai transfer fee (4%)
- AED 60,000
- Agency commission (2% + VAT)
- AED 31,500
- Registration / admin fee
- AED 4,200
- Registration trustee fee
- AED 4,200
- Mortgage registration (0.25%)
- AED 3,290
- Bank arrangement fee (~1%)
- AED 12,000
- Property valuation
- AED 3,000
* Indicative and paid in cash — since 2025 these can’t be added to the loan. Fees vary by emirate and lender; see our Dubai fees guide.
Cost of buying property in the UAE — FAQs
How much does it cost to buy property in Dubai?
In Dubai, budget around 7–8% of the price with a mortgage: a 4% DLD transfer fee, ~2% agency commission, 0.25% mortgage registration, plus valuation, trustee and admin fees. Since 2025 these are paid in cash and can’t be added to the loan.
Are property fees the same across the UAE?
No — the biggest difference is the transfer fee: 4% in Dubai, around 2% in Abu Dhabi, Sharjah and RAK, and 3% for expats in Ajman. This calculator adjusts for the emirate you select.
Can I add the buying fees to my mortgage?
Not since 2025 — UAE rules now require the transfer fee, agency commission and mortgage registration to be paid upfront in cash, separate from the loan.
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Free, no-obligation advice. We compare every UAE lender and confirm your exact figures.