Freehold Areas in Dubai | Your Complete Guide to Ownership

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.

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.

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, 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.

If you’ve been looking at the Dubai real estate market for more than five minutes, you’ve probably come across the phrase: Dubai freehold property.

It shows up on brochures, websites, and phone calls - usually as a selling point. But what does it mean?

Can you buy freehold property in Dubai as a foreigner?

Is it a lease? A lifetime right? Or full legal ownership?

The answer matters - especially if you're putting down serious money, planning for the long term, or hoping to build something more permanent in the UAE.

In this guide, we’ll unpack exactly what freehold property in the UAE is, how it works in practice, and why it’s become one of the strongest pillars of Dubai’s real estate success.

Whether you're buying to live, invest, or simply understand your rights, you're in the right place.

What Is Freehold Property?

Let’s strip it down.

Freehold property in the UAE means full ownership. Not just of the walls or the apartment, but of the land it sits on, the title deed, and the legal rights that come with it. It’s yours. No expiry, no renewal, no rent paid to a master developer.

That’s what separates it from leasehold.

Leasehold is long-term use - 30, 50, even 99 years - but at the end, the ownership reverts. With Dubai freehold property, there is no end date. You can sell it, lease it, pass it on, or live in it forever.

The concept became law in 2002, when Dubai opened certain zones to foreign investors under true freehold ownership. It was a bold move - and it worked.

Today, Dubai property freehold ownership is what draws in buyers from every corner of the world, looking for something solid in a city that’s still building upward.

Dubai’s Freehold Zones | Where Can You Buy?

One of the reasons Dubai freehold property has become so attractive is the range of areas available to buyers, especially non-residents.

Unlike some cities where foreign ownership is restricted or symbolic, freehold property in the UAE is real, enforceable, and geographically broad.

Dubai has designated multiple zones where freehold ownership is allowed for international buyers. These include:

• Downtown Dubai – For those seeking the city’s heartbeat.
• Dubai Marina – Waterfront living with skyline views.
• Business Bay – A hybrid of work and high-rise luxury.
• Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC) – One of Dubai’s fastest-growing residential hubs.
• Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Hills, Arabian Ranches, and more.

Each area offers something different - from family villas to high-rise apartments, from quiet communities to lifestyle destinations.

If you’re looking into emerging residential zones, JVC stands out for its value and momentum. Projects like Binghatti Phantom represent exactly the kind of freehold opportunities that combine affordability, design, and long-term potential.

And that’s the real power of Dubai property freehold ownership - it’s not just where you can live, it’s where you can belong.

Explore More: Freehold Areas in Dubai

Dubai Property Freehold Ownership | What You Own?

When you buy a Dubai freehold property, you're not just getting an apartment or villa - you're getting the title deed in your name, registered with the Dubai Land Department. That deed isn’t symbolic. It’s legal, transferable, and permanent.

Dubai property freehold ownership means you own the unit, the land it sits on (if applicable), and the full right to sell, lease, gift, or pass on the property as inheritance, without local sponsorship or time limits.

It’s a concept rooted in transparency. You can register it under your name as an individual or under a company if structured properly.

And unlike some leasehold structures in other cities, there’s no annual ground rent or expiry clock ticking in the background.

You own it.

Fully.

And in a place like Dubai - where real estate is more than a roof - that kind of ownership matters.

Who Can Buy Freehold Property in Dubai?

So - can you buy freehold property in Dubai if you’re not a resident?

Yes. That’s exactly what Dubai intended when it opened up its market to global buyers.

Anyone - whether a UAE resident, foreign investor, or even someone living on the other side of the world - can legally purchase Dubai freehold property in designated zones. There’s no citizenship requirement. No need to hold a visa.

You don’t even need to be in the country when the deal is signed - most transactions can be handled remotely through power of attorney.

Individuals can buy in their own name, and companies - whether local or foreign - can also hold property, depending on the structure and approval. Many investors choose to buy under an offshore or UAE-based company for legal or tax purposes.

That openness is part of what makes freehold property in the UAE so unique. It’s not just about the product - it’s about access. Real, direct, and protected by law.

Process | How to Buy Freehold Property in Dubai?

So - how do you actually go from browsing to holding the title?

Buying a Dubai freehold property isn’t some complicated maze. But it’s not something you want to figure out halfway through, either.

Here’s how it usually unfolds.

You find a place that makes sense - for your budget, your reason, your rhythm.

You agree on the price.

You sign a simple agreement - usually called an MOU - and put down a deposit.

Then comes the paperwork. Not piles of it. Just enough to prove who you are and that the funds are clean.

Your broker handles most of it. A good one will walk you through without rushing or skipping.

After that, everything moves through the Dubai Land Department.

You pay the government fee. They issue the title deed. And just like that - it’s yours.

If you’ve been asking whether you can buy freehold property in Dubai without being here, without speaking Arabic, without second-guessing every step… the answer is yes.

You just need someone who knows the system and respects your pace.

Benefits of Freehold Ownership

There’s a kind of peace that comes with knowing what you own is yours.

No expiry dates. No renewals. No fine print waiting to surprise you years later.

That’s the quiet power of Dubai freehold property - ownership that feels solid, simple, and not tied to anyone else’s timeline but your own.

For many people, that means flexibility. You can live in the home, rent it out, sell it, or hold it long-term, and you don’t need permission to do any of that.

For others, it’s about security. Owning in a city like Dubai, where the rules are clear and the growth is visible, doesn’t just feel like a smart investment - it feels safe.

Projects like Diamondz by Danube reflect this shift, designed for people who don’t just want a place to stay, but a stake in the city itself.

And that’s what freehold property in the UAE offers.

Not hype.

Just quiet confidence - backed by law, and built to last.

Risks and Considerations

Let’s be honest - Dubai freehold property isn’t a magic ticket.

It’s ownership, yes. But ownership comes with decisions.

Some freehold zones are well-developed, easy to rent, and easy to resell. Others… not quite there yet. You might need time. Or patience. Or both.

Markets shift.

Dubai’s been strong, fast, and resilient - but no market moves in a straight line. If you’re thinking short-term gains, you’ll need to be sharper with timing.

Then there’s the developer.

Buying off-plan? Ask hard questions. Don’t just look at brochures - look at what they’ve delivered before.

And finally, owning means managing. Service fees, upkeep, maybe tenants. It’s not complicated - but it’s not passive either.

So no, there’s nothing risky about freehold property in the UAE itself.

But there is a risk in not knowing what you’re getting into. And that’s why smart buyers take their time - and ask better questions.

About Mada Properties

Mada Properties isn’t just another real estate name in Dubai - it’s a team that listens first.

We focus on clarity, not pressure.

We help you compare, not just choose.

And we stay with you, from your first question to your final signature.

Whether you’re looking for a place to live, a property to invest in, or simply a clearer way to understand the Dubai market, we’re here for that.

Because good property decisions don’t start with listings.

They start with people who care.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I buy freehold property in Dubai as a foreigner?

Yes. Foreigners can buy freehold property in designated areas without needing residency or a sponsor.

2. What does freehold mean in Dubai real estate?

It means full ownership - the unit, the land (if applicable), and the right to sell, rent, or inherit it.

3. Is freehold property better than leasehold in Dubai?

If you want long-term control with no expiry, yes - freehold is more flexible and secure.

4. Are there any risks to buying freehold in Dubai?

Only if you don’t do your homework. Choose the right location, developer, and advisor - and you’ll be fine.

In a city built on vision, buying before it's built just makes sense.

More and more investors - both local and international - are asking the same thing: how to buy off plan property in Dubai without the guesswork, the risks, or the overwhelm. Not because they want to gamble on blueprints, but because they see what early decisions in this market can turn into.

From flexible payment plans to first-mover prices, off-plan properties offer something ready-made homes rarely do: opportunity with room tbuying a property in Dubaio grow. And in Dubai, where the skyline evolves by the month, getting in early has never felt more strategic.

This guide will walk you through the full process - what off-plan means, why people choose it, what to watch out for, and how to make sure you’re buying smart. We’ll also highlight two standout projects on the market right now: Mercedes-Benz by Binghatti in Downtown, and Aeon by Emaar at Dubai Creek Harbour - both offering rare access to tomorrow’s lifestyle at today’s price.

What is Off-Plan Property?

Before you start asking how to buy off plan property in Dubai, it helps to understand what "off-plan" really means.

An off-plan property is one that hasn’t been built yet - or is still under construction. You're not touring a finished apartment or villa. You're buying based on floorplans, renders, timelines… and trust. In return, you often get better pricing, flexible payment terms, and the chance to choose a unit before anyone else even sees the building go up.

Unlike buying a property in Dubai that's already completed - where the price is fixed and the competition is high - buying off-plan is about being early. It’s about seeing potential before it becomes concrete.

For some, that’s intimidating. For others, especially long-term investors, it’s exactly the kind of move Dubai rewards.

Why People Choose Off-Plan in Dubai

If you’re exploring how to buy off plan property in Dubai, chances are you’re not just looking for a place - you’re looking for value.

That’s exactly why off-plan has become a go-to strategy for so many.

At the heart of most Dubai off-plan property investment stories, you’ll find three things:

lower entry prices, long-term growth potential, and payment terms that don’t bite.

Off-plan projects often launch below market rate. Not because something is missing, but because you’re stepping in early. Developers offer better deals at launch to attract momentum. And for buyers who can wait, that means paying less now for something that could be worth far more later.

There’s also flexibility. Payment plans are typically stretched over 3 to 5 years, sometimes even post-handover - making the dream of buying a property in Dubai more accessible than most people think.

In a market that rewards timing, off-plan is one way to get ahead, without having to rush.

Explore More: Off-Plan vs Ready Property Dubai | Which One Fits You Best?

The Process of Buying Off-Plan Property in Dubai

The good news? The buying off-plan property in Dubai process is far more straightforward than most people expect - especially when you’re working with the right broker.

Here’s how it usually goes:

1. Choose your project.

You pick a development that matches your goals - whether it’s a branded icon like Mercedes-Benz by Binghatti, or a waterfront gem like Aeon by Emaar.

2. Reserve your unit.

Most developers ask for a small reservation fee to lock in your chosen apartment or villa.

3. Sign the Sale & Purchase Agreement (SPA).

This contract outlines the payment schedule, handover date, and legal terms. It’s registered with the Dubai Land Department (DLD) to protect your rights.

4. Follow the payment plan.

Instead of paying all at once, you’ll make scheduled payments linked to construction milestones - sometimes continuing after handover.

5. Receive your unit upon completion.

Once construction is complete and all payments are made, you receive the keys - and the title deed.

If you're wondering how to buy off plan property in Dubai without stress or surprises, this is the roadmap. And with the right guidance, each step can feel less like paperwork - and more like progress.

Explore More: Off Plan Mortgage Dubai

Things to Watch Out For

It’s easy to get excited when you see a glossy brochure or hear about a limited-time deal on an off-plan property for sale in Dubai. But even in a market this vibrant, caution is part of the process.

If you're asking how to buy off plan property in Dubai the smart way, here’s what you need to keep in mind:

• Not all developers are created equal

Stick with names that have delivered before. Projects by Binghatti or Emaar, for example, come with reputations backed by real handovers - not just promises.

• Read the fine print

Payment plans may look simple, but it’s the handover clauses, penalties, and refund policies that matter when things shift.

• Don’t chase the cheapest price

If something looks too good to be true, it usually is. Focus on value, not just cost.

• Ask about the escrow account

Reputable projects hold your payments in a government-monitored escrow, released only as construction progresses. If there's no escrow, walk away.

Being early in the market doesn’t mean being blind.

Choose carefully - and ask the questions that glossy ads won’t answer.

Projects Worth Considering Right Now

If you're seriously exploring how to buy off plan property in Dubai, there’s no shortage of options - but the right one depends on what you value most: location, brand, return, or lifestyle.

Here are two standout off-plan properties for sale right now, both offering a different kind of edge:

1. Mercedes-Benz by Binghatti – Downtown Dubai

Mercedes-Benz by Binghatti Where luxury design meets iconic branding. This tower blends automotive precision with architectural elegance, and it's more than just a statement - it’s a rare opportunity to own in one of Dubai’s most high-profile collaborations. If you're buying a property in Dubai to make a long-term statement or attract top-tier tenants, this is one to watch.

2. Aeon by Emaar – Dubai Creek Harbour

Minimalist design, waterfront views, and Emaar’s proven track record. Aeon by Emaar offers a calmer, more livable take on future-forward development. With flexible payment plans and a prime position in one of Dubai’s fastest-rising districts, it’s built for both personal use and Dubai off-plan property investment.

When you're navigating how to buy off plan property in Dubai, knowing where the smart money is going makes all the difference - and right now, it’s going to places like these.

How Mada Makes the Process Smoother

A lot of people come to us unsure.

They’ve heard the hype. They’ve seen the ads. But they still ask - how to buy off plan property in Dubai without falling into the wrong project, or making a rushed call.

At Mada Properties, we don’t just connect buyers to listings. We slow things down - in a good way.

We take time to understand what you’re looking for, whether it’s a smart investment like Aeon by Emaar, or a statement piece like Mercedes-Benz by Binghatti. We walk you through the process, step by step, with real answers - not just booking forms.

We’ll help you review contracts, compare payment plans, evaluate the developer, and make sure every part of the deal makes sense - not just today, but years from now.

Because buying off-plan isn’t about speed.

It’s about clarity.

And if we’ve done our job right, you’ll walk away from the process feeling informed, steady - and in control.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can foreigners buy off-plan property in Dubai?

Yes. Dubai allows full ownership of off-plan property for sale in designated freehold areas - no local sponsor needed.

2. What’s the usual down payment?

Most developers ask for 10% to 20% upfront, followed by milestone payments. Every project is different, so always review the full plan.

3. Is off-plan cheaper than ready property?

Usually, yes. That’s part of the appeal. Off-plan launches often offer lower entry prices and extended payment schedules.

4. What’s the process of buying off-plan property?

The buying off-plan property in Dubai process typically includes: choosing a unit, paying a booking fee, signing the SPA, and making payments over time - often through an escrow.