Frequently Asked Questions

WHAT IS EOI (expression of interest)?
EOI means a declaration submitted by potential investors or buyers to express interest in a particular project and to secure a spot in line for choosing a desired apartment on launch day (these projects are typically sold out on launch day). The final contract is signed later, after a detailed introduction to the project — until then, the EOI is 100% refundable.

WHAT FEES NEED TO BE PAID WHEN BUYING REAL ESTATE IN DUBAI?
When buying from a developer on the "primary market," a 4% Dubai Land Department fee (DLD) applies. Upon receiving the keys, an annual "service charge" is paid — approximately 10–50 AED per SQ FT for apartments, and ~2–5 AED per SQ FT for villas or townhouses, depending on the project and location.

When buying a property on the "secondary market," you pay a 4% Dubai Land Department fee (DLD), a 2% + VAT agency fee, ~6000 AED trustee fee, and the annual service charge depending on the project.

WHAT TAXES APPLY IN DUBAI IF I RENT OR SELL MY PROPERTY?
There are no personal income taxes in Dubai, so all rental or sale income is 100% yours.
If you rent your property on an annual basis, the agency fee and utilities are paid by the tenant.
If you rent your property short-term as a "holiday home," agencies usually retain 20%.

WHAT IS THE INTEREST RATE?
When buying real estate from a developer, the interest rate is 0%.

WHAT HAPPENS IF MY PURCHASED PROJECT ISN’T BUILT?
Your money is stored in escrow accounts. The developer receives the funds only after the “handover,” once you receive the keys to the purchased property.

WHEN CAN I SELL MY PROPERTY IF IT ISN’T BUILT YET?
Real estate in Dubai can be resold after 35% of the total price is paid (in some cases even earlier).