Curb Appeal and Home Value

If you’re planning to buy property in the UAE, you’ve likely come across the phrase UAE mortgage rules-and maybe felt a bit overwhelmed. As of February 1, 2025, the Central Bank tightened the rules: buyers must now pay fees like the 4% Dubai Land Department (DLD) transfer fee and 2% real estate brokerage fee on their own, because banks no longer wrap them into home loans 

In this guide, we’re breaking down the mortgage rules in Dubai and across the explaining LTV limits, debt burden ratios, term caps, and who qualifies. You’ll also learn how these UAE mortgage rules changes will affect affordability, buyer behavior, and where to turn for smarter financing. Whether you’re an expat looking for Dubai mortgage rules that fit your budget-or a UAE national weighing property, this is the roadmap to what comes next.

What’s New: UAE Mortgage Rules Change

In early 2025, the UAE mortgage rules changed in a way that’s easy to miss-but hard to ignore once you start planning your budget.

Until recently, many banks would finance not just your property, but also the extra fees that come with like the Dubai Land Department’s 4% transfer fee, the 2% broker commission, and other transaction costs. That meant a buyer with limited liquidity could still move forward, as long as the property value supported the loan.

But under the new rules, these extras are off the table. The Central Bank now prohibits banks from covering those costs as part of the mortgage. You still get financing for the property, but you’ll need to handle the rest from your pocket.

For most buyers, that means setting aside an extra 6% to 7% of the property value on top of your down payment. It’s a shift toward more responsible lending-and one that aligns UAE practices with what’s standard in mature global markets. But for anyone hoping to stretch their mortgage to cover everything, it’s a reality check.

Dubai Mortgage Rules Basics

Buying property in Dubai isn’t just about the price tag-it’s about everything wrapped around it. And if you’re relying on a mortgage, you’ll need to understand what you’re signing up for.

Beyond the down payment, buyers in Dubai are expected to cover several mandatory fees. These include the Dubai Land Department (DLD) transfer fee, typically 4% of the property value, a 2% broker commission, a trustee registration fee, mortgage registration, and a valuation fee. Add it all up, and you’re often looking at an extra 6–7% in upfront costs-and that’s before your first mortgage payment even begins.

These costs aren’t hidden. They’re standard, regulated, and part of what makes Dubai mortgage rules transparent-but they can catch buyers off guard if they’re not prepared. And with the recent changes, lenders won’t be covering these anymore. That shifts more responsibility onto the buyer-especially first-timers or expats unfamiliar with mortgage rules in Dubai.

So before you start shopping for properties, make sure you’re also budgeting for the full picture-not just the sticker price.

Core UAE Mortgage Regulations

Whether you're buying your first home or your third, the UAE has clear rules about how much you can borrow-and how much you need to bring in yourself.

Let’s start with the basics. The Loan-to-Value (LTV) ratio determines what percentage of the property value a bank will finance. Under current UAE mortgage rules, the limits depend on two things: your residency status and whether it’s your first or second property.

For UAE nationals, banks will typically finance:

• Up to 80% of the property price if it’s your first home and costs AED 5 million or less.
• Up to 70% if it’s over AED 5 million.
• 65% or less for second or additional properties.

For expatriates, the numbers are slightly lower:

• 75% LTV for the first home under AED 5 million.
• 65% if the price exceeds that.
• 60% for second or investment properties.

And if you're buying off-plan, expect even tighter rules: a flat 50% LTV cap, regardless of your nationality or property count.

Another key number is your Debt Burden Ratio (DBR). In most cases, your total monthly debt payments-including your new mortgage-can’t exceed 50% of your monthly income. And the total mortgage amount can’t be more than seven times your annual income if you're an expat, or eight times if you're a UAE national.

These numbers might feel like limits, but in practice, they’re a guide-a way to keep buyers from going too far, too fast.

Easing Rules & Trends for Expats

If you're an expat thinking about buying in Dubai, the good news is this: over the past few years, UAE mortgage rules have quietly become more welcoming.

Banks today are offering longer mortgage tenures, lower interest rates, and more flexible approval processes than they did just a few years ago. Many lenders now provide pre-approval within 24 to 48 hours, and some even allow partial document submissions online to get the process moving faster.

The most noticeable change? Lower minimum down payments for expats in certain cases, especially if you’re buying through a large developer with special agreements in place. That means more doors are opening, not just for high-net-worth investors, but for salaried professionals who want to build something permanent in the UAE.

Of course, the core mortgage rules in Dubai still apply. Your debt ratio, income stability, and LTV cap will always play a role. But the landscape is shifting. More banks are competing for expat clients. More developers are offering post-handover payment plans. And more residents are seeing property not just as a luxury-but as a smart, stable, long-term move.

New Digital Efficiency: Mortgage Release in One Day

Not all changes to UAE mortgage rules are about restrictions. Some are about speed-and this one’s a game changer.

In a move to simplify the mortgage process, the UAE introduced a fully digital mortgage release system that can be completed in just one business day. What used to take a week-or sometimes longer-can now be handled through smart contracts and integrated platforms between banks, the Dubai Land Department, and relevant authorities.

For buyers and sellers alike, this means less paperwork, fewer in-person visits, and fewer delays when closing a deal. It also makes things easier for expats who might be managing transactions from abroad or under time pressure.

This shift reflects something bigger: while Dubai mortgage rules are getting tighter in some areas, the broader system is getting smarter. Efficiency and accountability now go hand in hand-and that’s good news for anyone looking to buy, sell, or refinance.

Practical Impacts & Tips for Buyers

So what do all these UAE mortgage rules mean when you're actually preparing to buy?

First, be ready with more cash upfront. With banks no longer financing fees like DLD transfer and broker commission, buyers now need to cover an extra 6–7% of the property price out of pocket. For many, that changes the timeline. It’s no longer just about saving for a down payment-it’s about being fully liquid before you even apply.

Second, the new landscape makes off-plan properties more attractive-especially for expats. Developers often waive registration fees, offer flexible post-handover payment plans, or assist with bank partnerships. That can ease some of the pressure, but it also shifts the focus from just price to structure.

Third, don’t go it alone. Mortgage rules in Dubai aren’t overly complex, but they do change, and they vary from one lender to another. A mortgage advisor can help you compare offers, explain the fine print, and make sure you’re not caught off guard halfway through the process.

The key takeaway? Plan early. Know your numbers. And choose a path that fits not just the market-but your real life.

How to Navigate UAE Mortgage Rules

You don’t need to be a finance expert to understand UAE mortgage rules-but you do need to be prepared.

Start by looking at your full budget, not just the down payment. With fees like the DLD transfer and broker commission no longer included in the mortgage, you’ll need to cover more upfront. For some buyers, that changes the timeline. For others, it’s just about being more intentional.

Before you go too far, talk to someone who knows the current lending landscape. A mortgage advisor can help you check your eligibility, explain what’s possible based on your income and existing obligations, and walk you through what banks are offering now, not last year.

You’ll also want to think about what kind of property suits your situation. Off-plan units, for example, often come with incentives like fee waivers or post-handover payment plans-especially helpful if you’re trying to manage cash flow.

And when it’s time to close, don’t forget that the one-day mortgage release system now makes things faster and simpler. A long process doesn’t have to feel slow anymore.

The rules are here to protect you. The challenge is knowing how to work with them, not around them.

About Mada Properties

At Mada Properties, we believe real estate decisions should feel solid-not rushed, not confusing, and never out of reach.

We work with buyers from all walks of life-UAE nationals, long-time residents, and expats taking their first step into the market. And we don’t just show you listings. We help you understand the numbers, the mortgage rules in Dubai, and what it really takes to move from curiosity to ownership.

Whether you’re navigating a second mortgage, comparing off-plan options, or trying to make sense of changing fees, we’re here for the questions most people don’t know how to ask.

Because good property advice isn’t about pressure-it’s about perspective. And that’s what we try to offer, every step of the way.

Conclusion & Takeaways

There’s no shortage of rules when it comes to buying property in the UAE-but that’s not a bad thing. If anything, these updated UAE mortgage rules are a sign of a maturing market-one that values financial responsibility, transparency, and long-term stability.

Yes, the upfront costs are higher now. Yes, the process asks more of you. But what you get in return is a clearer path, faster systems, and a better sense of what you’re walking into.

If you're serious about buying, don’t just focus on what you can borrow. Focus on what you can carry comfortably. Know your numbers, ask questions, and don’t rush through decisions that are meant to last.

The mortgage rules aren’t here to block you. They’re here to protect you-from overpromising banks, from shaky developers, and sometimes from yourself.

And in a market that’s moving fast, that kind of protection isn’t a hurdle. It’s a gift.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• What changed in the UAE mortgage rules in 2025?

Banks can no longer finance DLD and brokerage fees. Buyers must pay these separately.

• What are the LTV limits under the current UAE mortgage rules?

Up to 80% for nationals and 75% for expats on first homes. Lower for second properties and off-plan units.

• Do Dubai mortgage rules apply to expats?

Yes. Expats must meet LTV and DBR requirements like all buyers, with slightly stricter limits.

• What is DBR, and why does it matter?

DBR (Debt Burden Ratio) limits your total monthly debt to 50% of your income. It’s key to loan approval.

• Can I finance my fees along with the property?

Not anymore. Under new UAE mortgage rules, all transaction fees must be paid upfront by the buyer.

• How long does it take to release a mortgage now?

Thanks to new digital systems, mortgage release in Dubai can now happen in just one business day.

Thinking of buying another property in Dubai-but already have a mortgage on the first? You’re not alone. Whether it’s for investment, upgrading, or unlocking equity, more homeowners in the UAE are exploring the idea of taking out a second mortgage. But a common question stops them in their tracks: How many mortgages can you have in Dubai?

The short answer: there’s no legal limit. But what matters is what the banks allow and what your finances can handle.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know. From what a second mortgage in Dubai means, to how much down payment is typically required, and what rules apply when you're stacking more than one home loan.

Whether you’re buying to grow your portfolio or just considering your options, this isn’t about theory-it’s about what’s possible, what’s permitted, and how to move forward with clarity. If you're looking for smart answers backed by real-world rules, you're in the right place.

What Is a Second Mortgage in Dubai?

A second mortgage in Dubai isn’t a second chance-it’s a second opportunity. Simply put, it’s a new loan secured against a property you already own, often used to finance a new home, tap into equity, or cover large expenses like renovations or investments.

Unlike refinancing-which replaces your original mortgage second mortgage leaves the first in place. You’re not tearing up the old deal. You’re layering on a new one, usually with a different lender and its terms. And because it’s a separate agreement, it comes with its interest rate, repayment plan, and risk profile.

In the UAE, second mortgages are becoming more common, especially for investors expanding their portfolios or homeowners leveraging the rising value of real estate. But approval isn’t automatic. Lenders will want to see equity in your existing property, a solid credit profile, and clear repayment capacity.

If you’ve been wondering whether a second mortgage in Dubai is even possible, the answer is yes. The better question is: is it right for you, and are you ready for what comes with it?

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Is Having Multiple Mortgages Legal in Dubai?

Yes, you can legally have more than one mortgage in Dubai-and you won’t find a law that says otherwise. The UAE doesn’t place a hard cap on how many mortgages a person can hold. What limits you isn’t the number-it’s the math.

Banks and lenders consider several key factors before approving an additional mortgage, including your income, existing debt obligations, and the Loan-to-Value (LTV) ratios permitted by the Central Bank. If you already have one home loan, getting another depends on how much you’ve repaid, how much equity you’ve built, and whether you can comfortably take on more.

The more mortgages you stack, the more carefully lenders assess your debt-to-income ratio. They’ll want to know: Are you over-leveraged? Is this second purchase sustainable? In many cases, lenders will also require that the first mortgage provider issue a No Objection Certificate (NOC) if the second loan is secured against the same property.

So, can you take out a second-or even third-mortgage in Dubai? Legally, yes. Financially, it depends. The key is not whether it’s allowed, but whether it makes sense for your situation.

UAE Mortgage Regulations & LTV Limits

In the UAE, owning more than one property is perfectly legal, but financing it comes with a few guardrails. That’s where LTV (Loan-to-Value) ratios step in.

For a first mortgage, most expat buyers can borrow up to 75% of the property value if it’s under AED 5 million. Go above that, and the cap drops to 65%. For UAE nationals, the ratios are slightly higher. But once you move into second mortgage territory, the rules get stricter.

In most cases, the maximum LTV for a second property sits at 60%. And if you’re buying off-plan, regardless of whether it’s your first or fifth home, financing usually tops out at 50%. These numbers aren’t random-they’re designed to keep the market stable and borrowers realistic.

That’s why even if you're eligible for another loan, you’ll likely need a larger down payment and a stronger income-to-debt profile. The more you borrow, the more closely lenders look-not just at your documents, but at the bigger financial picture.

Typical Down Payment & Affordability Considerations

If you’re thinking of taking out a second mortgage in Dubai, here’s what most people want to know first: how much cash do I need upfront?

For a second property, the required down payment is usually higher, often around 40% of the purchase price, especially for expats. That’s because lenders see it as a bigger risk. You already have one loan; now you're asking for another. So they want to see that you’re putting more of your skin in the game.

But the real question isn’t just how much the down payment is-it’s, can you afford it? Not just the upfront cost, but the monthly reality. Mortgage payments, service charges, unexpected repairs-they all add up. A second home can be an asset, or it can quietly stretch you thin.

That’s why many buyers use a simple framework to check affordability before they move forward. Some follow the 20/30/3 rule-where your down payment should be at least 20%, your monthly payments stay under 30% of your income, and the property price is no more than 3x your annual income. It’s not the law, but it’s a good lens.

Because the goal isn’t just to qualify for the loan. It’s to live with it.

Who Can Get a Second Mortgage in the UAE?

Getting a second mortgage in the UAE isn’t just about asking the bank-it’s about showing them you’re ready. And while there’s no special category of buyers who can or can’t apply, there are a few things lenders look for before saying yes.

If you’re a UAE resident, employed or self-employed, and have a clean credit history, you’re already in a strong position. But even non-residents and foreign investors can qualify, provided they meet the income requirements and have proper documentation. A growing number of expats are using second mortgages in Dubai to grow their portfolios or upgrade to larger homes.

What do banks want to see? A steady income. A solid debt-to-income ratio. A clear paper trail. If your first mortgage has been well-managed, that works in your favor. If you’ve got existing equity in your first property, that’s even better-some lenders allow you to leverage it to secure better terms on the second.

You’ll need to show the basics: proof of income, residency (or visa status), and the usual ID documents. If you’re self-employed, audited financials go a long way.

In short, second mortgages in the UAE aren’t off-limits; they’re earned. And the more prepared you are, the easier the process becomes.

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Benefits & Risks of Taking Out a Second Mortgage

Taking on a second mortgage in Dubai can open doors-but only if you walk through them with a clear head.

At its best, a second mortgage gives you options. Maybe you're buying a second home, maybe you're investing in something off-plan, or maybe you're simply using the equity you've built to take your next step. You’re not starting from scratch-you’re building on something solid.

You also keep your first mortgage as is. That can be useful if it’s at a good rate, or if the new loan is tied to a different property altogether. You get room to move without undoing what’s already in place.

But it’s not all upside. A second mortgage usually comes with tighter terms and a higher interest rate. It adds another repayment to your month, and that changes the way your finances feel. If anything unexpected hits-job changes, market dips, or personal shifts-you’ll feel it more.

None of this means a second mortgage is a bad idea. It just means you need to be honest about why you’re doing and what it’ll take to carry it forward. Because the cost of the loan isn’t just in the numbers. It’s in the peace of mind you keep or lose once the ink is dry.

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How to Apply for a Second Mortgage in Dubai

Applying for a second mortgage in Dubai isn’t something you rush through-but it’s not a maze either. If you’ve done it once before, most of the steps will feel familiar. If it’s your first time doubling up, here’s what the road usually looks like:

Start with your numbers.

Before you talk to anyone, run the basics. What’s your income? What are you already paying each month? How much equity do you have in your current property? If the math feels tight, the banks will feel it too.

Speak to someone who knows the landscape.

A good mortgage advisor can make this ten times easier. They’ll tell you which lenders are open to second mortgages, what terms you might expect, and where the roadblocks usually show up.

Get your paperwork ready.

Think of payslips, bank statements, ID, and any documents tied to your first mortgage. If you’re self-employed, add in proof of business income. Better to have too much than to be missing something important.

Ask your current lender for a No Objection Certificate.

If you’re borrowing against the same property, this is a must. No NOC, no second loan. It’s one of those quiet steps that can slow everything down, so ask early.

Apply and wait for pre-approval.

Once everything’s in, the bank will review it and-if all goes well-give you a green light. That’s when things move forward: property valuation, final approval, then transfer and registration with the Dubai Land Department.

It’s not a quick process. But with the right support, it’s not a stressful one either.

About Mada Properties

At Mada Properties, we don’t just sell homes-we help you understand them.

Whether you're buying your first apartment or considering a second mortgage, we know the process can feel like a lot. That’s why we start with clarity. No pressure. No jargon. Just the kind of honest guidance that helps you make decisions you won’t second-guess later.

We work across Dubai’s most promising areas-off-plan, secondary, residential, and investment we stay with you from the first viewing to the final signature. Our team is built around people who listen first, speak clearly, and move at your pace.

Because in a market this fast, what you need isn’t just a property expert. You need someone in your corner.

Conclusion & Takeaways

A second mortgage can be a smart way to move forward-but only if you know where you stand. There’s no law stopping you from having more than one mortgage in Dubai. The real limits come from the numbers: how much equity you have, how much you earn, and how much weight you’re ready to carry.

The good news? You don’t have to guess. The rules are clear. The process is steady. And with the right guidance, it’s completely doable.

So if you're thinking about growing your property portfolio, upgrading your lifestyle, or just making use of what you’ve already built-start by asking better questions, not just bigger ones.

Because the best second mortgage isn’t the one that gets approved. It’s the one you can live with.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Can I have two mortgages on the same property in Dubai?

Yes, but you’ll need a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your current lender, and the second mortgage must be approved based on available equity.

• Is there a limit to how many mortgages I can have in Dubai?

No legal limit-but banks will only approve what your income, debt load, and equity can support.

• What’s the typical loan-to-value (LTV) for a second mortgage?

Most lenders cap it at 60% for a second property. Off-plan? Usually no more than 50%.

• What’s the minimum down payment for a second mortgage in the UAE?

Often 40% or more, depending on the lender and your resident status.

• Can non-residents apply for a second mortgage in Dubai?

Yes, some banks offer second mortgages to non-residents, though approval is stricter, and options may be fewer.

• Will a second mortgage affect my credit score?

Yes. Like any loan, it adds to your credit profile and increases your monthly obligations. Paying on time is crucial.

You’re scrolling through listings. Maybe you’ve even booked a viewing. And then, somewhere between the asking price and the floor plan, the question hits: Wait… who pays the agent commission in Dubai?

It’s a fair question - and not a small one. Because beyond the excitement of finding the right place, there are numbers that don’t always show up upfront. That extra 2% here, or 5% there - it matters. Especially if no one told you it was coming.

In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at who pays the agent commission, how the process works across different kinds of transactions, and what RERA rules for commission say, not just what people assume. Whether you're buying, renting, or selling, understanding how Dubai real estate agents charge (and who’s expected to pay them) can save you time, confusion, and unexpected costs.

Because knowing what to expect doesn’t just help you budget - it gives you the confidence to move forward on your terms.

What Is Agent Commission in Dubai?

It’s the kind of thing that usually comes up after the fact.

You’re talking to an agent. You’ve seen a few places. Maybe one of them feels right. And then someone mentions the commission, as if you were supposed to know already.

In Dubai, the numbers aren’t a secret. If you’re buying, the standard is 2% of the sale price. If you’re renting, it’s usually 5% of the annual rent. That part’s fairly settled. But what’s less clear, at least at first, is who pays agent commission in Dubai, and why it isn’t always the same answer.

Sometimes it’s the buyer. Sometimes it’s the tenant. Sometimes it’s the seller or the landlord, and in off-plan deals, it’s almost always the developer. But unless that conversation happens early, it can lead to awkward moments later.

Dubai real estate agents work fast. They move between listings, clients, handovers, and signatures. It’s easy for things to get assumed, especially when everyone’s in a rush. But commission is one of those things worth slowing down for. Not just to ask how much - but to ask who, when, and why.

The rules? RERA has them in place. Clear enough, if you know where to look. But the real clarity comes from the people you’re dealing with - and whether they’re willing to have the conversation before the numbers show up on paper.



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Dubai Real Estate Agents: Who Pays What?

It depends on who you are and what kind of deal you’re making.

If you’re buying a home on the secondary market - meaning not brand new, not from a developer - the answer is simple: you pay the agent commission. It’s usually 2% of the purchase price, plus VAT. That’s the norm. The seller doesn’t usually cover it, unless you’ve agreed on something different upfront.

If you’re renting, it works the same way. You, the tenant, pay 5% of the annual rent. That’s what most Dubai real estate agents will expect - and it’s often due before you even get the keys.

Sellers? They only pay a commission if they’ve signed an exclusive agreement with the agent. If not, the buyer’s side covers it.

And off-plan? That’s the one exception where buyers get a break. In those cases, it’s the developer who pays. Agents still earn a commission - sometimes more than usual - but it doesn’t come out of your pocket.

So when people ask, Who pays the agent commission in Dubai?, the real answer is: it depends on what you’re doing. But most of the time, if you’re the one getting the keys, you’re also the one settling the fee.

Explore which is the best investment for you—Off-Plan or Ready Property in Dubai—with Mada Properties’ expert guidance.

A Look at RERA Rules for Commission

Dubai doesn’t just let the market run wild. There’s a framework, and at the heart of it is RERA, the Real Estate Regulatory Agency.

RERA sets the tone for how agents operate. It doesn’t fix commission rates by law, but it does set expectations: 2% is standard on sales, 5% on rentals, and anything beyond that needs to be agreed on in writing. No surprises. No backroom deals.

More importantly, RERA rules for commission say one thing loud and clear: whatever is agreed, it has to be transparent. That means if there’s a fee involved, it should be clear who’s paying it, how much it is, and when it’s due. Verbal agreements don’t count. Proper documentation does.

Some buyers assume the seller will cover it. Some tenants expect the landlord to pitch in. But unless it’s written down - and signed by both sides - that’s not how it works. And that’s why so many people still find themselves asking, Who pays agent commission in Dubai? - even after the deal is nearly done.

The answer, under RERA, is simple: whoever agrees to pay it, on paper, is the one responsible. That’s it. So, the safest move? Ask early. Confirm in writing. And don’t let that part of the conversation drift to the end.

How These Rules Apply in Real Transactions

It’s one thing to read the rules - it’s another to see how they play out.

In most resale deals, the buyer pays the commission. You find a place, agree on a price, and pay your agent 2% once the paperwork starts moving. That’s the rhythm most Dubai real estate agents are used to. No confusion, no need to ask twice - unless someone’s trying to do things differently.

With rentals, it’s similar. The tenant pays 5% of the annual rent, usually up front, and it’s handled before the handover. The landlord doesn’t cover it - not unless you’ve agreed on something unusual, which rarely happens in practice.

Where it shifts is in off-plan. If you're buying directly from a developer, especially during a launch, you probably won’t pay any commission at all. The agent still gets paid, sometimes even more than 2%, but the cost comes from the developer’s side, not yours.

And now and then, you’ll see a seller offer to cover the commission just to close the deal faster. It’s rare, but it happens. That’s why people keep asking: who pays agent commission in Dubai - not because the answer’s unclear, but because there are just enough exceptions to keep everyone guessing.

So the real answer? Look at the deal in front of you. Then look at the agreement. That’s where the truth lives.

Why Understanding Commission Matters

Most people don’t ask about the commission until it’s too late. Not because they’re careless - just because it’s one of those details that feels small until it suddenly isn’t.

If you’re buying, that 2% can catch you off guard. Maybe you were focused on the price, the payment plan, and the transfer fee. Then the agent reminds you, and you realise you’re a bit short. Not a disaster, but enough to make things tight. It’s the kind of moment that could’ve been avoided with one honest conversation early on.

If you’re renting, it’s the same story. That 5% shows up right before you get the keys. You've already paid the deposit, maybe a few rent cheques. Now there’s another cheque to write - and no one mentioned it before.

For sellers or landlords, it’s less about the money and more about the understanding. If your agent’s putting in time - arranging viewings, taking calls, managing paperwork - they’ll want to know how they’re getting paid. And if you’re expecting the buyer or tenant to handle it, that has to be clear from the start.

That’s why the question - who pays agent commission in Dubai - keeps coming up. Not because the rules aren’t there. But because people assume. They skip the talk. And then they’re surprised when the numbers hit the table.

Clarity helps. And a good agent won’t wait for you to ask - they’ll bring it up first.

About Mada Properties

We’ve been in enough conversations to know that most people don’t just want a house - they want someone who’ll tell them the truth.

At Mada properties, that’s where we start. Whether you’re buying, selling, or just trying to understand what it all means, we don’t rush the conversation. We ask the questions that usually get skipped. We bring up the details others wait to mention. And we’ll always tell you what we see - even if it costs us the deal.

That includes things like commission. We’ll explain exactly how it works, who’s expected to pay it, and why. If it’s negotiable, we’ll tell you now. If it’s not, we’ll make sure you’re ready for it. No last-minute surprises. No awkward calls at the finish line.

We don’t think real estate in Dubai has to feel like a hustle. It can feel like someone’s actually on your side. And that’s the space we try to hold - quietly, consistently, deal after deal.

Conclusion

Commission isn’t the most exciting part of buying or renting a home in Dubai, but it’s one of the things worth clarifying early.

The rules are there. The market has its habits. But the real answer to who pays agent commission in Dubai depends on the deal you’re making, and the people you’re making it with.

Ask early. Put it in writing. And work with someone who tells you the truth before you have to ask for it.

That’s usually all it takes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Who pays the agent commission in Dubai?

Most of the time, the buyer or tenant pays. In off-plan sales, it’s usually the developer.

Can the commission be split between both parties?

It can - but only if both sides agree in writing. Otherwise, it follows the usual pattern.

What are the standard commission rates in Dubai?

2% on sales, 5% on rentals - both plus VAT. Those are the market norms.

What do the RERA rules for commission say?

RERA doesn’t fix the rates, but it requires full transparency. The fee, the payer, and the terms should all be documented clearly.

Do Dubai real estate agents charge the same for every deal?

Not always. Some fees are negotiable - others aren’t. It depends on the property and the agent.

When is the commission usually paid?

Right after signing - before transfer or handover. It’s usually one of the last steps.