Dubai Property Transfer Fees: Complete Cost Breakdown 2026
Beyond the property price, Dubai buyers face several mandatory fees. Here is exactly what you will pay to the DLD, broker, and other parties in 2026.
Why understanding all fees matters
One of the most common mistakes Dubai property buyers make is budgeting only for the property price. The reality is that purchasing in Dubai involves several mandatory fees on top of the sale price — typically adding 6-9% to the total cost. Understanding these in advance prevents nasty surprises at signing and helps you accurately compare properties.
The Dubai Land Department (DLD) transfer fee
The DLD transfer fee is the headline cost. It is 4% of the property purchase price, paid at the time of title transfer. By convention, this fee is typically split 50/50 between buyer and seller — meaning each pays 2% — although it is negotiable and sometimes the buyer pays the full 4%.
Important: this 4% is on the official sale price registered with DLD, not any side agreements.
Property registration fee
In addition to the transfer fee, the DLD charges a registration fee:
- Properties under AED 500,000: AED 2,000 + 5% VAT
- Properties AED 500,000 and above: AED 4,000 + 5% VAT
This is typically paid by the buyer.
Trustee office fee
Title transfers in Dubai are processed through DLD-approved trustee offices. The fee is approximately AED 4,000 + 5% VAT per transaction, typically paid by the buyer.
NOC fee (No Objection Certificate)
The developer must issue an NOC confirming the seller has no outstanding service charges or other dues before the transfer can proceed. This fee varies by developer but typically ranges from AED 500 to AED 5,000 depending on developer and property type, and is usually paid by the seller.
Mortgage registration fee (if financing)
If you are buying with a mortgage, an additional DLD fee applies: 0.25% of the mortgage amount + AED 290 + 5% VAT, paid by the buyer.
Broker commission
Standard broker commission in Dubai is 2% of the property price + 5% VAT. By convention, this is paid by the buyer, although for off-plan purchases the developer often pays the broker directly.
Always insist your broker is RERA-licensed and the commission is documented in the signed Agreement (Form A, B, or F).
Worked example: AED 2 million apartment
Total upfront costs for a cash buyer on an AED 2,000,000 apartment:
- DLD transfer fee (buyer 2% share): AED 40,000
- Property registration fee: AED 4,200 (incl VAT)
- Trustee office fee: AED 4,200 (incl VAT)
- Broker commission: AED 42,000 (incl VAT)
- NOC fee (approx): AED 2,000
- Total fees: approximately AED 92,400
- Total cash required: AED 2,092,400
Add roughly AED 30,000-50,000 if buying with a mortgage to account for the mortgage registration fee, valuation, and arrangement fees.
Smart budgeting rule
As a rule of thumb, budget an additional 6% on top of the property price for a cash purchase, or 7-8% for a mortgaged purchase. This covers all standard fees with a small buffer for incidentals.
How Sky Diplomat helps
For every property we negotiate, we provide a complete fee breakdown in advance so you know exactly what to budget. We also coordinate with NOC issuance, trustee offices, and bank teams to ensure a smooth transfer day.
Disclaimer: Government fees and rates are subject to change. Always verify current fees with the Dubai Land Department (DLD) and confirm broker commission with your licensed real estate agent before signing.