For a normal Dubai secondary-market purchase, a buyer should plan for more than the deposit. The common buyer cost is about 7% to 8% above the purchase price for a cash resale. A mortgage can raise the amount.
The 4% DLD fee in a resale
The total DLD sale registration fee is 4% of the sale value. DLD's fee table shows a legal starting split of 2% for the buyer and 2% for the seller, unless both sides agree otherwise.
Current Dubai resale practice is different: the buyer normally pays the full 4%. This should be written clearly in Form F or the sale agreement. A different split can still be negotiated.
Other common buyer costs
- Registration trustee: DLD lists AED 4,000 plus VAT for a sale of AED 500,000 or more, or AED 2,000 plus VAT below AED 500,000.
- Title deed and map: DLD lists AED 250 for the title deed and AED 250 for an apartment or villa map, plus small Knowledge and Innovation fees.
- Broker: the common secondary-market rate is 2% of the sale price plus 5% VAT on the commission. It is a market rate, not a fixed government fee, so check the signed broker agreement.
- Developer NOC: the seller normally arranges it. The fee varies by developer and may be passed or shared only if the contract says so.
If you use a mortgage
DLD charges 0.25% of the mortgage value to register the mortgage. The bank may also charge a valuation fee, arrangement fee, insurance, and other costs. Ask the bank for one written fee sheet before signing.
A simple resale budget
For a cash resale, many buyers plan about 7% to 8% above the purchase price. This usually covers the 4% DLD fee, broker commission, trustee fee, title and map fees, and a safety margin. Mortgage buyers should keep more cash because bank and mortgage costs are added.
Sources checked in August 2026
This is a buyer planning guide, not a quote. Fees, bank charges, developer charges, and contract terms can change. Check the exact Form F, DLD receipt, broker agreement, bank offer, and developer NOC for your purchase.