Off-plan payments in Dubai and the completion percentage
How an off-plan payment schedule in Dubai relates to construction progress, according to DLD.
Off-plan payment schedules in Dubai are based on how far construction has progressed. This guide explains what the Dubai Land Department (DLD) says about checking progress before you pay.
- 01Payment schedules are based on completion rates.
- 02You can ask for the current completion percentage when a payment is requested.
- 03The DLD project status service shows completion percentage.
- 04An official technical report can be requested for a fee.
How the schedule works
DLD states that the schedule of payments is based on completion rates. Each instalment is linked to a stage or percentage of the project, as agreed between the buyer and the developer.
Your right to know the percentage
According to DLD, when a buyer receives a payment request, the buyer has the right to know the current completion percentage of the project. This is done through a letter from the project consultant approved by DLD.
Otherwise the buyer is not obliged to pay, unless it is confirmed that the project has reached the stage or percentage set in the agreed payment schedule.
Track progress
You can follow completion percentages on the DLD website, using the project status service, or in the Dubai REST app. Search by project name, project number or plot number to see the completion percentage and the status of the project.
Technical reports
DLD says the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) reviews the project register periodically and asks developers to update expected completion dates and completion rates. A technical report expires after three months and must then be renewed.
A buyer can also obtain a report showing the completion percentage, prepared by the technical auditor at RERA after paying an audit fee. The DLD frequently asked questions list this fee as AED 15,000 for a unit or villa.
Before you sign
Ask the developer which milestones trigger each instalment and keep the written schedule. Compare each payment request with the project status shown by DLD.
Tax position
0% income tax and 0% property tax*: the UAE does not levy income tax on individuals, and income from real estate held in a personal capacity, without a commercial licence, is outside UAE Corporate Tax.
*T&Cs apply.
Talk to an advisor
An iRealtor advisor can explain the steps and shortlist homes in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, including off-plan launches.
This article is general guidance, not tax, legal or financial advice.
FAQs
Can I refuse to pay if the developer does not show progress?
DLD says a buyer is not obliged to pay unless it is confirmed that the project has reached the stage set in the payment schedule. For your own contract, ask an advisor or DLD.
Where can I see a project's status?
On the DLD website, in the project status service, or in the Dubai REST app.
How often is project data updated?
RERA reviews the project register periodically and asks developers to update completion dates and rates. A technical report expires after three months.
