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DUBAI LAND » 2B + G + 11 + Roof Studio » 1-2 BR » Sizes from 404 – 1339 sq. ft. » Fully furnished units with premium finishes

Situated at the center of San Francisco, the San Francisco Shipyard is a comprehensive residential development that offers an unparalleled urban lifestyle experience.

A secluded residential development in the desert of south DubaiLand, promising cleaner air and naturally cooler temperatures.

Monte Carlo has a unique and instantly recognisable charm, one that has been captured and recreated faithfully at DAMAC Lagoons.

At DAMAC Lagoons, the most elegant villas and townhouses are surrounded by azure lagoons, sandy beaches, tropical ambiance and other enchanting experiences, on over 45 million square feet.

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Your journey to owning off-plan property. In 4 simple steps.

1

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2

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3

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4

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Escrow payments

Why invest in Off-Plan Properties?

Flexible Payment Plans

Pay only 20% down and spread the rest over construction milestones. Leverage your capital efficiently.

Capital Appreciation

Buy at pre-construction prices. Benefit from property value increases during construction.

Escrow Protection

Your payments are secure in RERA-regulated escrow accounts. Funds are released to the developer after the construction milestones are met.

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Use Lankea to find out about off-plan projects before they are launched or as soon as they are registered with RERA.

  • Every RERA-registered project
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  • Payment plans and prices
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Frequently Asked Questions

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General Off-Plan Information
An off-plan property is a real estate unit purchased before it is built or while construction is still in progress. Buyers invest based on architectural plans, 3D models or brochures rather than a finished building. Off-plan properties can be apartments, villas, townhouses, etc., sold directly by developers. Typically, the purchase involves a down payment and a Sales and Purchase Agreement (SPA) to secure the unit.
  • Lower entry price: Off-plan properties are usually priced lower than completed homes, allowing investors to buy at pre-construction rates.
  • Flexible payment plans: Developers often offer extended payment schedules, so buyers can pay a 10-20% down payment and the rest in installments linked to construction milestones.
  • Capital gains potential: Property values may rise by the time the project is completed, giving early investors a chance to profit from price appreciation.
  • Modern features: New developments come with the latest designs, amenities, and sometimes options to customize finishes.
  • Tax and rental benefits: Dubai has no annual property tax or capital gains tax on real estate, and rental yields are high in many areas compared to other cities.
Off-plan properties in Dubai can be a very good investment due to the lower prices and flexible payment terms, which make them attractive compared to ready properties. Investors often find that buying early allows more choice of units and the potential for significant value gains by completion. However, off-plan investments do come with risks – for example, construction delays or market fluctuations could impact the project's timeline and final value. Overall, many international buyers have profited from off-plan investments in Dubai, but it's important to research the developer and location carefully and be aware of the market conditions.
  • Construction delays: Projects can take longer than expected to complete – regulations allow developers up to a one-year delay in some cases before penalties apply. Buyers should check the SPA for any grace period and penalty clause for delays.
  • Market fluctuations: Property values might change during the construction period. A market downturn could reduce the value of your investment by handover.
  • Developer reliability: There's a risk a developer might run into financial or quality issues. It's important to research the developer's track record; an unreliable developer could face project modifications or cancellations.
  • Liquidity and resale restrictions: It may be harder to resell an off-plan unit before completion. Some developers restrict transfer until a certain percentage is paid, and finding a buyer prior to handover can be challenging if market demand is low.
Most new off-plan projects in Dubai come with a range of modern amenities for residents. Common facilities include swimming pools, equipped gyms, landscaped gardens or parks, children's play areas, and 24/7 security. Many developments (especially large communities) also feature amenities like retail shops, restaurants or cafés on-site. Higher-end projects might offer concierge services, spas, private beach or marina access, and other luxury facilities. The exact amenities depend on the project, so it's best to review the developer's brochure to see what is included.
In some cases, yes. One advantage of buying off-plan is the possibility to request certain customizations or choose finishes while the property is being built. For example, developers might let you select color schemes, flooring types, or kitchen designs from a set of options. Major structural changes are usually not allowed (especially in apartments), but villas or townhouses may offer more flexibility if agreed early. Always discuss any customization requests with the developer before purchasing, and ensure any agreed changes are documented in writing.
Buying Process and Requirements
Yes. Dubai permits foreign nationals (including non-residents) to buy off-plan properties in designated freehold areas of the city. In these areas, international investors can own the property outright without any local partner, enjoying the same ownership rights as UAE citizens. Freehold ownership is typically valid indefinitely (or up to 99 years in some cases) and the title deed is issued in the buyer's name. In summary, there are no nationality restrictions on buying property in Dubai's freehold zones, which include most popular developments.

Buying off-plan in Dubai usually involves the following steps:

  1. Select a project: Research and choose an off-plan development that fits your investment goals (consider location, developer reputation, pricing, etc.).
  2. Reserve the unit: Pay a booking fee (reservation deposit) to the developer to secure your chosen unit. This is often around 5-10% of the price.
  3. Sign the Sales and Purchase Agreement (SPA): This contract, signed by both buyer and developer, legally binds the deal and outlines all terms (price, payment schedule, completion date, etc.).
  4. Follow the payment plan: Pay installments as per the agreed schedule in the SPA. Payments are typically tied to construction milestones (e.g. 20% on 20% completion, and so on).
  5. Handover and registration: Upon project completion, do a final inspection and take possession (handover) of the property. The developer will then arrange to register the property in your name with the DLD, and you receive the title deed.
Buying off-plan is relatively straightforward in terms of paperwork. You will need:
  • A valid passport copy (for foreign buyers).
  • Emirates ID (if you are a resident of the UAE).
  • Signed Sales and Purchase Agreement (SPA) for the property.
  • Proof of your current address and proof of financial capability (such as bank statements or a mortgage pre-approval letter).
The Sales and Purchase Agreement (SPA) is the primary contract between the buyer and the developer for an off-plan property. It outlines all the terms of the purchase in detail. The SPA will include the property specifications, total price, payment schedule, expected completion and handover date, and any penalties or remedies if the developer delays the project. Essentially, it legally binds both parties to the deal – the developer commits to deliver the unit as specified, and the buyer commits to making payments as scheduled. Because it's a legally binding document, buyers should review the SPA carefully (and ideally with a lawyer) before signing.
It's highly recommended to consult a qualified real estate lawyer before you sign the SPA. A lawyer experienced in UAE property law can review the contract to spot any unfavorable clauses or missing protections. They will ensure the payment schedule, compensation clauses for delays, and other terms are fair and in line with Dubai's laws. If necessary, the lawyer can negotiate modifications to the SPA with the developer. This upfront legal review helps protect your interests and can prevent costly disputes later.
Finances and Costs
Developers in Dubai typically require a down payment of around 10% to 20% of the property price to reserve an off-plan unit. The remaining balance is then paid in installments according to a construction-linked payment plan. For example, you might pay 10% on booking, another 10-20% spread over construction milestones, and a final percentage on handover. Some developers offer post-handover payment plans, meaning you continue paying part of the price even after the property is delivered. In certain promotions, a few developers have accepted as low as 5% upfront, but generally you should expect to pay at least 10% down. Always refer to the payment schedule in the SPA, as it will detail the exact amounts and due dates for each installment.
Yes, it's possible to finance an off-plan purchase with a mortgage, but there are some limitations. Banks in the UAE will typically finance up to 50% of the property value for off-plan properties (this limit applies to both UAE nationals and expat buyers). In practice, the mortgage funds are usually only released closer to the project's completion or handover. That means you need to cover the initial down payments and progress installments largely from your own funds, with the bank contributing the final payments. It's advisable to get a mortgage pre-approval and consult with lenders early on – they can inform you at what construction stage they will disburse the loan. Overall, while mortgages for off-plan are available, be prepared to put up at least half the value in cash and meet the bank's eligibility criteria.

Besides the property price, buyers should budget for several upfront costs:

  • Dubai Land Department (DLD) fee: A 4% registration fee on the purchase price, payable to register the property in your name.
  • Oqood fee: This is an off-plan title registration fee (for issuing the Oqood contract) of around AED 3,000 – 5,250, depending on the project.
  • Mortgage registration fee: If you are taking a mortgage, an additional 0.25% of the loan amount is charged by DLD to register the mortgage, plus you'll pay bank processing fees and a valuation fee.
  • Service charges: These are annual maintenance fees for the property's upkeep (common areas, facilities) due after handover. They vary by project (charged per square foot) and are an ongoing cost for owners.
  • Utility connections: One-time connection fees or deposits for water and electricity. For instance, Dubai Electricity & Water Authority (DEWA) charges a refundable deposit (~AED 2,000 for an apartment, ~AED 4,000 for a villa) when setting up the utilities.
  • VAT on fees: There is no VAT on the property price (residential sales are generally tax-free), but some fees like the agency commission or certain admin charges may have 5% VAT applied.

It's also worth noting that if you later sell the property, the standard 4% DLD transfer fee would apply at that time, and if you use an agent, a brokerage commission (often ~2%) would be due then.

Yes, the government and developers have introduced various incentives to encourage real estate investment. For example, at times Dubai has offered discounted or waived DLD registration fees for certain periods or projects (saving the buyer the 4% fee). Another major incentive is the residency visa: property investors who meet the required investment thresholds can qualify for UAE residency visas – including a long-term 5 or 10-year Golden Visa for high-value investments (more details in the visa question below). Additionally, some developers partner with banks to offer special mortgage rates, or provide very attractive payment plans (such as post-handover payment schedules) as a private incentive. These measures make off-plan investment more accessible and rewarding for foreign buyers.
Legal Protection and Regulations
It's crucial to perform due diligence on the developer before investing. First, research the developer's track record: what projects have they completed in the past and were those delivered on time? Look for reviews or news about those projects and see if buyers were satisfied with the quality. Ensure the developer is properly registered and licensed with the Dubai Land Department (all legitimate developers must be). You can also verify that the project is registered with RERA and that an escrow account is in place – this is a legal requirement and a good sign the developer is following regulations. If possible, visit one of the developer's completed developments to inspect the build quality and finishes in person. Reputable developers will have a history of delivering projects more or less on schedule and meeting their promises.
Dubai has a strong regulatory framework to protect off-plan property buyers. By law, developers must be registered with the authorities and are required to deposit all off-plan buyer payments into a dedicated escrow account for the project. RERA (the Real Estate Regulatory Agency) oversees these escrow accounts and project progress to ensure funds are used for construction of that project only. Strict escrow laws (Law No. 8 of 2007) mean that if a developer fails to deliver, the funds in escrow can be used to compensate buyers or finish the project. Additionally, the sale and purchase agreements (SPAs) are regulated – developers cannot impose unfair terms that violate property laws. If a developer does not meet their obligations (such as excessive delays or changes), buyers have the right to file a complaint with RERA/DLD, who can mediate or take action against the developer. These legal mechanisms (escrow, project registration, regulatory oversight) ensure a high level of protection for off-plan investors.

The Dubai Land Department (DLD) is the government authority responsible for overseeing all real estate transactions and registrations in Dubai, while RERA (Real Estate Regulatory Agency) is a regulatory arm under DLD focused on the real estate sector's rules and compliance. In the context of off-plan properties:

  • DLD: ensures that property transactions are registered, issues title deeds, and sets broad regulations for property ownership. DLD also handles the registration of off-plan sale contracts (Oqood) and collects the applicable fees.
  • RERA: oversees and regulates developers and projects. RERA requires developers to register each off-plan project with DLD/RERA and to open an escrow account for it. RERA monitors construction progress, enforces escrow laws, and can penalize or bar developers for non-compliance. RERA also provides a platform for buyers to address grievances – for instance, if there are undue delays or changes, buyers can approach RERA for mediation.

In short, DLD handles the administrative and legal framework (ensuring you get a valid title), and RERA provides ongoing oversight of projects and market practices to protect investors.

An escrow account is a special bank account where all payments made by off-plan buyers are held under government supervision. In Dubai, by law, each off-plan project must have its own RERA-approved escrow account, and the developer cannot access the money freely. Funds from the escrow are only released to the developer in stages as construction progresses, and those progress milestones are verified. This system ensures your money is used only for building the project you invested in, reducing the risk of fraud or fund mismanagement. If a project faces issues or cancellation, the remaining money in the escrow account is safeguarded for refunding buyers or for project completion under DLD's oversight. In essence, escrow accounts lock down your payments until the developer earns them by reaching the required construction stages, which hugely increases the security of off-plan investments.
If an off-plan project is delayed beyond the agreed completion date, the outcome will depend on the terms of your SPA (Sale and Purchase Agreement) and Dubai's real estate regulations. Generally, SPAs allow for a certain "grace period" (often 6 to 12 months) of delay without penalty. If the delay exceeds that, many contracts stipulate that the developer must compensate the buyer – for example, by paying a penalty per month of delay or offering other remedies. RERA provides oversight in such situations; buyers can file a complaint with RERA if they believe a delay is unjustified. In cases of very long or indefinite delays, you may have the right to cancel the contract and seek a refund, but this typically requires going through a legal process or RERA arbitration and showing that the developer breached the contract. Always refer to the delay clauses in your SPA: they will outline your rights to compensation or cancellation if the project isn't delivered on time.
Dubai's regulations have safeguards for such worst-case scenarios. If a developer faces insolvency or a project is officially cancelled by RERA, the first line of protection is the escrow account holding the buyers' funds. The Dubai Land Department's liquidation department will step in to manage the situation. In a cancellation, the remaining escrow funds are typically used to refund investors – the developer is instructed to return payments to the buyers (usually within 60 days of the cancellation decision). If the developer goes bankrupt but the project can be saved, RERA may transfer the project to a different qualified developer who will take over and complete the construction, using the money in escrow to fund it. In any case, the law prevents developers from simply absconding with the money. The process can take time (and may involve court proceedings for liquidation), but these rules exist to guarantee that buyers either get the property finished by another developer or receive their funds back from the escrow account under government supervision.
Investment Returns and Exit Strategies
Yes, you can typically resell your off-plan property contract before handover, but certain conditions apply. Most developers require that you have paid a minimum percentage of the property price (commonly 30-40%) and that the project is a certain way into construction before they allow a transfer to a new buyer. You'll also need to obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the developer, which confirms they have no objection to you selling the unit and that you've paid up the required amount and any fees. Once these conditions are met, you can find a buyer and execute a transfer of the SPA to the new owner. The new buyer will then take over the remaining payment plan. Note that a 4% DLD transfer fee will apply upon the sale (usually paid by the new buyer), and some developers charge a small transfer fee as well. Always check your SPA or ask the developer about their resale policy so you know the exact requirements.
Yes. Once the property is completed, handed over to you, and you have the title deed, you are free to rent it out just like any completed property. Many investors of off-plan projects intend to lease the property to earn rental income. Dubai has a strong rental market, and rental yields (return on investment from rent) are often quite high by international standards – in some prime locations, yields can be around 5-8% or more per year of the property value. You will need to register the tenancy contract (via Ejari) and comply with local rental laws, but there are no additional taxes on rental income. This means once your off-plan purchase becomes a finished unit, it can start generating revenue through rent.

Several key factors will affect your ROI when investing in off-plan property:

  • Location: Properties in high-demand areas or upcoming developments tend to appreciate more and attract higher rents. For example, an off-plan in a well-located community (city center or waterfront) can yield better returns than a remote area.
  • Developer reputation: Projects by reputable, top-tier developers often command higher resale value and buyer confidence. A well-built, iconic project will generally see more demand (and higher prices) than a lesser-known development.
  • Market conditions: The overall real estate market and economic climate play a big role. If the market is on an upswing (high demand, growth periods), off-plan investments see higher ROI. Conversely, in a downturn, prices and rents can be softer. Government policies (like visa rules or interest rates) also impact demand.
  • Payment plan and financing: A favorable payment plan (such as a long post-handover payment schedule) can attract more future buyers, potentially boosting the resale value. Also, if you leverage a mortgage, the cost of financing will affect your net returns.

Ultimately, doing careful research on where and what you buy – and buying at the right phase of the market – will influence your ROI.

Investors in Dubai real estate can qualify for residency visas if they meet certain investment thresholds. The standard requirement is owning property worth at least AED 750,000, which makes you eligible for a 2-year renewable investor residence visa (if the property is mortgaged, at least AED 750k must be paid off). For larger investments, Dubai offers a long-term Golden Visa: investing AED 2 million or more in property can qualify you for a 10-year residency visa. Notably, off-plan properties can count toward the AED 2M Golden Visa requirement, provided the project is at least 50% complete and you have paid at least 50% of the property value, as per the latest rules. In all cases, the visa is not automatic – after purchase, you must apply through the DLD and immigration authorities for the visa, showing proof of property ownership (title deed or Oqood certificate). But the availability of investor visas (and the ability to sponsor family members) is a significant advantage of buying property in Dubai, and many off-plan buyers do use this route to obtain UAE residency.
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