Dubai Property Selling Guide (2025)

Selling property in Dubai requires careful planning, market knowledge, and legal compliance. Whether you are a first-time seller or an experienced investor, this selling guide walks you through the entire process  from preparing your property to completing the final transfer.

Preparing Your Property for Sale

First impressions are key in the Dubai real estate market so before reselling it keep a few things in mind. A well presented property can attract serious buyers faster and achieve a higher sale price.

Tips for preparing your property:

• Repair cracks, defects and maintenance issues.

• Apply a fresh coat of paint and upgrade minor features like lighting fixtures.

• Conduct deep cleaning for interiors and exteriors.

• Please maintain the garden and outdoor areas for villas.

Pro tip: Buyers may not imagine the potential of your property presenting it in the best condition helps trigger emotional connection.

What is the Market Appraisal and Price of Selling Property?

Pricing your property correctly is the most important factor for a successful sale in Dubai.

Your real estate consultant will evaluate:

• Property type, size and its amenities.

• Please ensure the location and development.

• Recent sales and rental trends of your location.

Proper property valuation ensures your listing is competitive and aligned with current market trends, increasing the chance of serious offers.

Requirements of Listing Your Property in UAE

Listing your property legally in Dubai requires:

• Signing Form A / Contract A with your broker.

• Providing your title deed or Oqood and passport / Emirates ID.

Your broker will then obtain a marketing permit, which is required before advertising your property. Listing on multiple online platforms ensures maximum exposure to potential buyers.

Marketing Your Property through Right Channels

Marketing is critical in the Dubai real estate market to attract qualified buyers.

Effective marketing strategies:

• Professional photography, detailed property description and amenities.

• Featured listings on listing portals such as Property Finder, Bayut and Dubizzle

• Social media and email campaigns targeting potential buyers

• 3D virtual tours and video walkthroughs for remote viewing

• Hosting open houses

Tip: A skilled agent uses multiple marketing channels and premium tools to maximize your property’s visibility.

Agents will be Showing Your Property

Your agent will arrange property viewings for prospective buyers.

Ensure smooth viewings by:

• Providing working keys and security access

• Preparing all required documents for the agent

• Keeping the property tidy and accessible

The easier it is for agents to show the property, the more buyer engagement and leads you’ll generate.

Negotiating and Signing the MOU

Once a serious buyer is found:

• Negotiate price and terms via your agent, using market data and property valuation reports.

• A 10% deposit often confirms buyer seriousness.

• Sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU / Form F) electronically via SMS/OTP.

• The agency holds the deposit until the transfer is completed.

A professional agent ensures negotiations are based on facts and market trends.

Mortgage Considerations

For sellers with a mortgage:

• Start bank coordination once the MOU is signed.

• Request a liability letter from your bank (may take up to 2 weeks).

• Cash buyers: property can be blocked at DLD Trustee office for mortgage clearance.

• Financing buyers: both banks coordinate to settle the mortgage prior to transfer.

Applying for the NOC

The No Objection Certificate (NOC) is required from the developer to proceed with the sale:

• NOC charges typically range from AED 500 to AED 5,000.

• Ensure all service charges and installments are cleared.

• Developers may inspect the property for unapproved modifications.

• Some require a refundable buyer deposit, returned upon updating the title deed.

• Processing usually takes up to 5 working days, depending on property type and developer.

Disconnecting Utilities 

Coordinate with DEWA and other utility providers before property transfer:

• Can usually be done online in 24 to 48 hours.

• Prevents delays and ensures a smooth handover to the buyer.

Final Transfer and Title Deed 

After the NOC is issued:

• Transfer ownership at a DLD approved Trustee office.

Payments required via manager’s cheque:

• Purchase price to seller

• 4% DLD transfer fee

• Trustee office fee

After payment, the new title deed is issued in the buyer’s name. Service charges and rental amounts are settled pro rata.