TryBeforeDubaiDLD fees, explained
If you're buying property in Dubai, the DLD transfer fee is the big upfront government charge. Here's what it is, the headline 4%, and the other costs that come with a purchase.
The Dubai Land Department (DLD) is the government body that registers property ownership. When a property changes hands, the DLD charges a transfer fee to register the new owner — the single largest transaction cost most buyers face.
The DLD transfer fee is 4% of the property price (plus a small admin fee). In practice it's often split or fully paid by the buyer — but who pays is negotiable and should be agreed in writing.
The full stack of buying costs
| Cost | Typical amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| DLD transfer fee | 4% of price | Plus a small admin/registration fee |
| Property registration fee | ~AED 2,000–4,000 + VAT | Tiered by property value |
| Agency commission | ~2% + VAT | Buyer's agent fee on resale purchases |
| Mortgage registration (if financing) | 0.25% of loan + admin | Paid to DLD on the loan amount |
| No Objection Certificate (NOC) | ~AED 500–5,000 | From the developer, paid by seller usually |
| Trustee / transfer office fee | ~AED 4,000 + VAT | For processing the transfer |
Illustrative 2025–26 norms — confirm exact figures with the DLD and your conveyancer before transacting.
Who pays, and when
The 4% is legally a transaction cost that, by custom, is usually borne by the buyer, though it can be negotiated. It's paid at the point of transfer at a DLD-approved trustee office, alongside the other registration costs. Off-plan purchases from a developer have their own fee timing — see Oqood explained.
Renting instead?
Tenants don't pay the DLD transfer fee — that's a purchase cost. Your equivalent registration is the much smaller Ejari fee. For the full renter cost picture, see Dubai hidden costs.
Property fees and thresholds change. Confirm current rates with the DLD and a licensed conveyancer before committing funds.
Frequently asked
4% of the property purchase price plus a small administrative/registration fee. It's the largest single cost when buying.
By custom it's usually the buyer, but it's negotiable and should be agreed in the sale contract.
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