What to Ask When Buying an Apartment in Dubai, UAE

Imagine you’ve saved for years, and now you’re finally ready to buy your dream apartment in one of the most vibrant cities in the world: Dubai. However, just as you start your search, you find yourself overwhelmed with questions—what if the property doesn’t appreciate in value? 

What if it has hidden costs that could stretch your budget? What if there are legal disputes you weren’t aware of? These concerns are valid and shared by many homebuyers in Dubai, where the real estate market is fast-paced and regulations can be complex. Understanding what to ask before making a purchase can help avoid common pitfalls, saving you both time and money.

In this blog, we’ll guide you through the key questions to ask before buying an apartment in Dubai, ensuring you make an informed decision with confidence.

1. What is the Developer’s Reputation?

Dubai’s skyline is a testament to its booming real estate market, but not all developers are created equal. One of the first questions you should ask is about the reputation of the developer. Are they known for delivering projects on time? Do they have a track record of building quality properties? Researching the developer’s history can help you avoid projects that face delays or issues with build quality.

Key Tip: Look for reviews, past projects, and industry awards that speak to the developer’s credibility. Also, ensure that the developer has a valid RERA (Real Estate Regulatory Agency) registration, which guarantees that the project complies with Dubai’s real estate laws.

2. What Are the Property’s Maintenance Costs?

In Dubai, maintenance fees are a critical part of apartment ownership. These costs cover the upkeep of common areas, building facilities, and more. The maintenance fees can vary widely depending on the apartment complex, location, and the quality of the amenities offered.

Why This Matters: Hidden or unexpectedly high maintenance fees can strain your budget. Always ask for a breakdown of these costs before signing any contracts. Additionally, inquire about any possible legal disputes associated with the property, as unresolved issues may impact future maintenance and ownership.

3. Is the Property Freehold or Leasehold?

One of the most crucial factors to understand when buying an apartment in Dubai is the difference between freehold and leasehold properties. A freehold property allows you full ownership of the apartment, while a leasehold means you’re leasing the property for a set number of years (usually up to 99 years).

Key Consideration: Freehold properties are more attractive for long-term ownership, especially for expatriates, as they offer complete ownership rights. Always confirm the type of property you’re interested in.

4. What Are the Service Charges?

In addition to maintenance fees, service charges in Dubai cover the management and maintenance of communal spaces such as gardens, pools, gyms, and security. These charges can significantly vary between luxury and standard developments.

Ask Specifically: Request an estimate of the service charges and any potential increases in the future, as this could affect your overall budget. Be mindful of hidden costs such as transfer fees, registration fees, and cancellation policies, which can sometimes be overlooked but play a significant role in your total expenditure.

5. What’s the Location Like?

The location of your apartment in Dubai will have a significant impact on both your lifestyle and the apartment’s future value. Is it close to metro stations, shopping malls, schools, or hospitals? Dubai’s traffic can be a challenge, so proximity to essential amenities should be a key factor in your decision-making.

Key Areas to Consider: Popular neighborhoods like Downtown Dubai, Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC), Dubai Marina, and Business Bay all offer unique advantages. It’s important to ask how the location aligns with your daily needs and long-term plans.

6. What’s Included in the Apartment’s Price?

When purchasing an apartment, the listed price doesn’t always cover everything. Ask about what’s included in the price, such as parking spaces, storage units, or even furniture in some cases. Be aware of additional costs such as registration fees, agent fees, and transfer costs.

Pro Tip: Always ask for a full breakdown of all the costs associated with the purchase to avoid any surprises down the road. Additionally, inquire about the difference between the built-up area vs carpet area of the apartment. The built-up area includes the overall square footage, including walls, balconies, and even common areas, while the carpet area refers to the actual usable space inside the apartment. Knowing this distinction can help you make a more informed decision regarding the size of the property.

7. Is the Property Mortgaged?

If you’re considering taking out a mortgage, it’s essential to ask whether the property you’re eyeing is mortgaged by the developer or if the seller has an existing loan on it. Additionally, you should ask about the maximum loan-to-value ratio allowed and compare interest rates from different banks.

Tip: Many expats buying in Dubai require financing, so it’s important to work with reputable mortgage brokers who understand the nuances of the local market.

8. What Are the Project’s Completion Timelines?

For off-plan properties, always inquire about the expected completion timelines. Delays in delivery are not uncommon, so you should be cautious and check the contractual terms for any penalties if the project is delayed.

Important: Make sure there’s a well-documented project completion date and an agreed penalty if there’s a delay.

9. Are There Any Restrictions on Resale?

Dubai’s real estate market is highly dynamic, and you may want to sell the apartment at some point. Ask about any restrictions or penalties on reselling the property, especially if it’s an off-plan purchase. Some developers impose restrictions on the sale of off-plan properties until construction is completed.

Why It Matters: Knowing this beforehand helps ensure that your property is a liquid asset, and you won’t face difficulties if you decide to sell.

10. What Are the Community Rules?

Each apartment complex or building in Dubai typically has a set of community rules, which can govern everything from pet ownership to renovations. Always ask for a copy of the community rules before purchasing the apartment.

Tip: If you have specific lifestyle preferences, such as owning pets or making modifications, ensure that the community guidelines align with your needs.

11. How Safe is the Investment?

While Dubai’s real estate market is known for its resilience, it’s important to ask how safe your investment is in the long term. Research market trends, rental yields, and the growth potential of the area. Inquire whether the building is part of a master-planned community, which can add value over time.

Pro Tip: Consider consulting with a real estate investment advisor to better understand the market risks and opportunities. Also, inquire about the environmental sustainability of the building. Is it constructed with green building practices? Does it have energy-efficient systems and eco-friendly waste disposal methods in place?

12. What Security and Safety Measures Are in Place?

Security is paramount when choosing a home. Ask about the security systems in place, such as 24/7 CCTV, gated entry, and security personnel. Additionally, verify the building’s fire safety measures and ensure it complies with local regulations. Power backup systems are also crucial, especially in high-rise apartments, so be sure to inquire about emergency power supplies.

13. What About Post-Handover Support?

After moving in, you’ll want to know about the level of post-handover support. Does the developer provide any after-sales services, such as maintenance or repairs? Furthermore, inquire about the role of the management or any association in managing community affairs, handling grievances, and ensuring the smooth functioning of the building.

Conclusion: Make the Right Decision with Confidence

Buying an apartment in Dubai is a significant decision, and asking the right questions will make all the difference. By focusing on these critical aspects—developer reputation, hidden costs, property ownership, and investment security—you can move forward with clarity and confidence. The real estate market in Dubai offers vast opportunities, but the key to success lies in doing your due diligence and asking the right questions to protect your investment.

With decades of experience in the real estate industry, SAMS has helped countless clients successfully navigate the complexities of buying property in Dubai. If you’re ready to take the next step, explore our collection of luxury apartments for sale and begin your journey toward owning your dream home in this incredible city!