Dubai DLD Fee Explained for Buyers
Everything you need to know about Dubai Land Department transfer fees, registration charges, and total transaction costs before you buy.
One of the most significant transaction costs when buying property in Dubai is the Dubai Land Department (DLD) transfer fee. At 4% of the purchase price, it can represent a substantial sum — and it catches many first-time buyers off guard if they haven't budgeted for it in advance.
What is the DLD Transfer Fee?
The Dubai Land Department (DLD) is the official government authority responsible for registering all property transactions in Dubai. The DLD transfer fee is a mandatory government charge paid when a property changes ownership. It is set at 4% of the property's purchase price and is typically paid by the buyer at the time of property registration.
Complete DLD Fee Breakdown
| Fee Type | Rate / Amount | Who Pays |
|---|---|---|
| DLD Transfer Fee | 4% of purchase price | Buyer |
| Admin/Registration Fee | AED 2,000–10,000 | Buyer |
| Trustee Office Fee | ~AED 4,200 | Buyer |
| Mortgage Registration | 0.25% of loan + AED 290 | Buyer (if financed) |
| Agent Commission | Typically 2% | Buyer |
Total Transaction Cost Example
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For a property purchased at AED 1,500,000 with a mortgage: DLD Fee = AED 60,000; Admin Fee = ~AED 6,000; Trustee = AED 4,200; Mortgage Reg = ~AED 4,040 (on AED 1.2M loan); Commission = AED 30,000. Total additional costs: ~AED 104,240 (6.9% of purchase price)
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