What Every Buyer & Seller Should Know: Legal Rights & Obligations in Dubai Real Estate Resales
Seller Responsibilities: What You Really Need to Take Care Of
Thinking of selling your property in Dubai? It’s more than just finding a buyer and signing papers—there are a few legal steps you can’t afford to skip if you want the sale to go smoothly and avoid any last-minute surprises.
Be Honest About Property Condition
If your unit has any known issues—like water damage, faulty wiring, or structural cracks—you have to disclose them. Hiding problems might seem tempting, but it can backfire. Buyers can pull out of the deal or even demand compensation after the sale.
Clear Your Dues Before You Go
Make sure you clear all the dues before the transfer happens, check service charges, maintenance fees, utility bills, or mortgage balances. Clearing this dues is important as they could delay the transfer or stick to your name.
Handle the Legal Paperwork Properly
You’ll need to provide a few key documents:
- The original Title Deed proving you legally own the property
- A No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the developer confirming all payments are up to date
And be ready to process the sale through the Dubai Land Department’s official system
Buyer Commitments: What You're Agreeing To
- Inspect before payment: Buyers are expected to check property conditions legally and confirm conformity with contract terms.
- Honor contract terms: Always meet payment deadlines, follow handover timelines, and respect clauses under the signed MOU or Form F.
- Pay transfer fees: In Dubai, you must pay a 4% DLD transfer fee, title deed issuance fees (~AED 580), trustee charges, and potentially agent commission.
Must-Know Legal Steps in a Resale Transaction
Step | What to Confirm | Why It Matters |
1 | Seller holds clear title deed, free of mortgages or encumbrances | Guarantees legal ownership transfer |
2 | Handling of tenant agreements (if occupied) | You’re bound by lease unless proper eviction notice is verified |
3 | Signed RERA-approved Form F (Dubai) or MOU (Abu Dhabi) | Legally binding document for resale deals |
4 | Seller provides No Objection Certificate (NOC) from developer | Confirms no outstanding dues exist |
5 | All parties present at trustee office (or via POA) | Official transfer is completed in one go |
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Seller Scams or Hidden Encumbrances
Buyers have lost deposits because sellers failed to disclose mortgages or legal disputes. Always do a title check.
Undefined Handover Terms
Not clarifying when possession and keys are handed over can lead to disputes later.
Service Charge Surprises
Annual communal service charges can range from AED 15–35/sqft. (Varies)
Legal Support: RERA & Dispute Resources
If something goes wrong, you’re not alone. Dubai’s Rental Dispute Centre (RDSC) and DLD enforce fair play in real estate. More complex issues can be taken to Dubai Courts.
Final Thoughts
Understanding seller and buyer legal duties in Dubai’s resale market isn’t just smart—it’s essential. With the right process, you safeguard your investment, negotiate confidently, and close transactions smoothly.
When You're Ready, Boli Helps You Close Securely
At Boli, we guide buyers and sellers through every step—from legal checks to rounding up fees transparently. We ensure your real estate journey is efficient, compliant, and stress‑free.
Ready to make the move? Tell us your area or property type, and Boli will organize the rest—for a safe, legal, and seamless experience.