Canonical, crawlable guides on buying, off-plan, leasing, and investing in Dubai — by Valorem Real Estate Brokers.

Include DLD transfer fee (4%), agency fee (2%), and down payment requirements (25% for expats). Always budget for service charges and mortgage costs.
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When buying off-plan, you will not be able to physically view the property itself but you will benefit by making this type of investment, because: - Best Price: The opportunity to choose the best unit at the lowest possible price for the project, maximising the returns on your investment. - Profit Opportunity: Investors can sell prior to project completion at a considerable profit, assuming the project has proved popular and the market is performing well. - Better Payment Plans: With usually lower upfront costs, and monthly payments. Work out your requirements, including budget, location, developer, property type, size, facilities and community.
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In Dubai, you are required to pay your rent in post-dated cheques for the contract term. Between 1-12 cheques are the industry practice, with usually better deals for renters who are prepared to pay in fewer cheques. You will also require a passport copy, a resident visa copy, Emirates ID (front and back), and a checkbook to rent in Dubai. Do not forget to budget these additional costs: - Ejari fees: (AED 220) - Security deposit: 5% to 10% of rent - Moving fees: dependent on property and bedroom type, and varies by moving agency - Agency fee: usually between 5% to 8% of first annual rent - DEWA fees: AED 130 non-refundable connection (activation fee), along with a refundable deposit (AED 2,000 for apartment / AED 4,000 for villas). If your residency visa is not yet issued, you can approach the agent and provide them with a letter from your company confirming that your visa is under process. So the agent can convey the same to the landlord.
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This ensures that the same Dubai property is not rented out twice at the same time. If you do not register the tenancy contract, any dispute arising out of the same will not be entertained by the Dubai Rent Dispute Settlement Centre.
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Identifying the right mortgage can be a daunting task – there is more to consider than just the interest rates. Life Insurance, property insurance, Loan to Value are all important aspects that should be addressed before selecting your mortgage. Therefore, It is best to start the process by first speaking to a qualified mortgage advisor form a reputable firm. Larger Mortgage Brokerage firms are generally empaneled with most of the banks in the UAE and will have access to a full array of mortgage solutions, which will in turn will save you time and money on your mortgage.
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Placing high priority on the best presentation of your property (making the property look as presentable as possible) gives you the best chance of selling in a timely and profitable manner. This increases your chances of getting offers and the highest possible price for your property. We recommend that you make sure any cracks, defects or maintenance issues are dealt with before listing your property. We also recommend that you invest in a fresh coat of paint if need be and a full clean of the property along with ensuring that you have a tidy garden, if it is a villa. Buyers don’t always have the best imagination and are not seasoned investors like sellers so triggering that emotional connection with the property is key. Buyers may not realize how minor certain works are so its better to get them out of the way in order to showcase your property in the best way possible.
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