How to Buy Off Plan Property in Dubai & the UAE

Quick answer

To buy off plan property in the UAE: choose a RERA-registered developer and project, reserve the unit with a booking deposit (usually 5–20%), sign the SPA, register the Oqood with the DLD, pay in installments per the payment plan, and complete final payment at handover.

What is off plan property?

An off plan property is a home you buy directly from the developer before or during construction. Buyers are attracted by lower entry prices, flexible payment plans spread over the build period, and the potential for capital appreciation by the time the project hands over.

Step 1 — Choose a developer and project

Start with an established, RERA-registered developer. Browse projects by developer, by community, or by all off plan projects. Compare starting prices, unit sizes, payment plans and handover dates.

Step 2 — Reserve your unit

Once you select a unit, you pay a reservation deposit (commonly 5–20% of the price) to take it off the market. You then sign the Sales & Purchase Agreement (SPA) which sets out the price, payment schedule and handover date.

Step 3 — Oqood registration

For Dubai off plan, the developer registers your purchase with the Dubai Land Department (DLD) via the Oqood system, and a 4% DLD registration fee typically applies. This legally records your interest in the property.

Step 4 — Pay per the payment plan

You then pay in installments tied to construction milestones or a fixed schedule. See our payment plans guide for how 40/60, 60/40 and post-handover plans work.

Step 5 — Handover

On completion you pay the final installment, the developer hands over the unit, and the title deed is transferred to your name. You can then move in, rent it out, or resell.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can foreigners buy off plan property in Dubai?

Yes. Foreigners can buy off plan property in designated freehold areas across Dubai and the UAE with full ownership rights.

Is off plan property a good investment in the UAE?

Off plan can offer lower entry prices and payment flexibility, with potential appreciation by handover. Returns depend on location, developer reputation and market conditions.

What fees apply when buying off plan in Dubai?

Expect a 4% DLD registration fee, an Oqood/admin fee, and any agency fee. Some developers run promotions that waive the DLD fee.