Dubai Property Fees Explained: A Complete Breakdown for Homebuyers in 2025

Planning to buy a home in Dubai? You might be focusing on your down payment and monthly mortgage, but don’t overlook the additional Dubai property fees — they can add up to 6–7% of the purchase price.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through all the essential fees you need to consider when purchasing property in Dubai — including the mortgage registration fee, DLD charges, bank fees, and more.

What Are the Main Dubai Property Fees You’ll Pay?

Fee Type	Amount / Percentage
DLD Registration Fee	4% of purchase price + AED 580 admin fee
Mortgage Registration Fee	0.25% of loan amount + AED 290 admin fee
Property Valuation Fee	AED 2,500–3,500
Bank Processing Fee	0.5–1% of loan amount
Trustee Fee	AED 4,000 (AED 5,000 for off-plan)
Agency Fee	2% of purchase price
NOC Fee	AED 500–5,000 (varies by developer)

Each of these costs plays a role in completing your property transaction — and most are due upfront at the time of purchase or transfer.

What Is the Mortgage Registration Fee in Dubai?

The mortgage registration fee is a government charge paid when registering your home loan with the Dubai Land Department (DLD).

How It’s Calculated:

– 0.25% of the mortgage loan amount

– + AED 290 administrative fee

– Example: If your mortgage is AED 1.5 million:
0.25% × 1,500,000 = AED 3,750

– AED 290 admin = AED 4,040 total

The mortgage registration fee is mandatory and non-negotiable, and it’s usually paid by the buyer during the registration of the property.

Who Pays the Mortgage Registration Fee in Dubai?

In Dubai, the buyer is responsible for paying the mortgage registration fee.

This fee must be paid directly to the Dubai Land Department at the time of registering the home loan. It’s a one-time payment and is separate from your monthly mortgage installments.

 Some banks may assist in coordinating the payment, but the cost is always borne by the buyer.

Understanding the Role of the Dubai Land Department (DLD)

The DLD oversees all property transactions in Dubai. It’s responsible for:

– Recording property ownership

-Registering mortgage contracts

-Collecting government fees (like the mortgage registration fee)

In short, the DLD ensures transparency and legal security for all parties involved in buying or selling property.

Additional Costs Related to Mortgage and Registration

When buying with a mortgage, you’ll also need to budget for the following:

1. Property Valuation Fee

Banks require a third-party valuation before approving your mortgage.
  Cost: AED 2,500–3,500

2. Bank Processing Fee

Most UAE banks charge 0.5%–1% of the loan amount as a one-time fee.
  Some offer promotions to waive this.

3. Early Settlement or Partial Payment Charges

If you plan to pay off your loan early, banks may charge 1% of the remaining balance (capped at AED 10,000).

Total Upfront Costs When Buying a Property in Dubai

Let’s break down what you can expect to pay as a buyer using a mortgage:

 Example – Property Price: AED 2 Million

-DLD Fee: AED 80,580 (4% + admin)

-Mortgage Registration Fee: AED 5,290 (0.25% + admin on AED 2M loan)

-Valuation Fee: AED 3,000

-Bank Fee: AED 10,000 (0.5%)

-Trustee Fee: AED 4,000

-Agency Fee: AED 40,000 (2%)

-NOC Fee: AED 1,500 (estimate)

Estimated Total Fees: AED 144,370
This doesn’t include your down payment, which is 15–20% of the property price for most buyers.

Tips to Manage Property Fees in Dubai

Here’s how to stay on top of your property fees — especially the mortgage registration fee:

 1. Get a Full Cost Breakdown Upfront

Ask your mortgage broker (like us!) for a complete list of fees based on your loan and property.

 2. Compare Bank Offers

Some banks offer promotions, like reduced processing fees or free valuation, which can save you thousands.

3. Plan for Upfront Payments

Most fees are due immediately during registration. Make sure your savings cover both your down payment and fee bundle.

 4. Work with a Trusted Advisor

Navigating government fees, bank requirements, and paperwork is easier when you have an expert guiding you.

FAQs About the Mortgage Registration Fee and Dubai Property Costs

1) Is the mortgage registration fee refundable?

No — it’s a non-refundable government charge once paid.

2) Can the seller pay any of the fees?

Typically no, but in negotiated developer deals, the seller may cover some DLD or agency fees — not the mortgage fee.

3) Is the mortgage registration fee different for expats?

No, the fee is standard for all buyers regardless of nationality.

4) Can I include the mortgage registration fee in my loan?

Some banks may allow bundling certain fees into the mortgage — but the DLD mortgage registration fee is generally paid separately and not included in the loan amount.

The mortgage registration fee is just one part of the total cost of buying a home in Dubai — but it’s a critical one. As a buyer, it’s important to understand all related fees so you’re not caught off guard on registration day.

With proper planning, and support from a trusted broker, you can navigate Dubai’s property market confidently and without hidden surprises.

Want help calculating your total Dubai property fees?
Speak to a Mortgage Finder expert today — we’ll break down every cost and help you find the best mortgage solution for your budget.