The full cost of buying property in Abu Dhabi

The price is only part of the budget. This guide lists the one-off costs of buying in Abu Dhabi, the yearly costs of owning, and what you do not pay.

• Registration (transfer) fee: 2% of the price, paid by the buyer when the sale is registered on DARI.
• Agency fee: 2% of the price, paid by the buyer.
• Mortgage registration: 0.1% of the mortgage value, if you finance the purchase.
• Bank fees: arrangement and valuation fees set by your bank.

• Service charges: for shared facilities such as pools, gyms, security and landscaping.
• Utilities: electricity, water and cooling, depending on the community.
• Maintenance and insurance: to keep the home in good condition.
• Property management: optional, if you let the home. See iRealtor property management.

0% income tax and 0% property tax* *T&Cs apply. The UAE does not levy income tax on individuals. Rental income from property held in a personal capacity, without a commercial licence, is outside UAE Corporate Tax (Cabinet Decision No. 49 of 2023). The only payments when you buy are one-off government fees on the transaction: a 2% registration (transfer) fee in Abu Dhabi, paid by the buyer, and a 4% registration fee in Dubai. Property held through a company is treated differently.

Under Central Bank of the UAE rules, an expatriate can borrow up to 80% for a first home worth up to AED 5 million, 70% above AED 5 million, and up to 50% for off-plan property. Use our mortgage calculator to estimate repayments.

This article is general guidance, not tax, legal or financial advice.