What is the DLD fee?

When a real estate agent tells you about DLD fees, they are referring to the cost of registering your future property in your name.

The letters DLD stand for Dubai Land Department. The Dubai Land Department is thegovernment agency in charge of all real estate matters in the Emirate of Dubai. It is this organization that will act as a notary and willregister your property in your name.

How much is the DLD fee?

The registration fee for a property in Dubai is 4%. In some promotions, it is possible that these fees are partially or even totally covered by the developer.

When do I have to pay the DLD fee?

The DLD fee is payable at the time the unit is registered in your name. If this fee is not paid, either by you or by the developer, the unit cannot be put into your name. Generally, the DLD fee is to be paid directly to the developer along with the first payment you make to the developer (usually 10% of the total price). Thus, the unit will be officially registered in your name at that time. Technically, the registration of your apartment in your name is done after you have your downpayment (usually 10% of the total price), the DLD fee (if applicable) and the administration fee (usually a few thousand dirham).