Who pays the DLD fee
Many launches advertise the four percent Dubai Land Department fee as waived. Read the SPA: sometimes the developer pays it, sometimes it is deferred to handover, sometimes it is added back if you resell before completion.
Ask for the clause in writing before booking.
Handover grace periods
Almost every SPA gives the developer a grace period, usually twelve months, beyond the advertised completion date before any penalty applies. A “Q4 2027” handover is contractually Q4 2028.
Plan finances and any visa application around the contractual date, not the brochure.
Resale restrictions
Most developers require 30 to 40 percent paid before you can assign the contract, and charge a transfer fee. Some block resales entirely until handover.
If you may need to exit early, this clause matters more than the headline discount.
Escrow and milestones
Payments go into a RERA escrow account and release against construction progress. Check that the payment schedule is tied to milestones rather than calendar dates; the former protects you if construction slips.
We review the SPA with you on every off-plan reservation we handle.
