Dubai Property Handover: Snagging, Costs and Steps

Dubai Property Handover Process is a crucial phase for new homeowners.
INVEST NOW IN DUBAI PROPERTIES
Table of Contents |
1. Property Handover Process in Dubai, Step by Step
This section will guide you through the essential steps to ensure a smooth handover.
Notice of Completion
The Dubai Property Handover Process begins with the developer issuing a completion notice. This notice is crucial as it marks the official start of the handover process.
Steps Involved:
- The developer notifies the buyer and the Dubai Land Department (DLD) about the project's completion.
- The DLD sends a completion notice to the developer, stating that the buyer has 30 days from the notice issue date to complete the property handover requirements.
- The completion notice includes the Property Index Number (PIN), which is essential for registration on Ejari and utility applications.
- The developer forwards the notice to the buyer. If the buyer does not receive the notice, they should contact the DLD immediately.
Element | Description |
---|---|
Developer Notification | Developer informs buyer and DLD about project completion |
DLD Completion Notice | Issued by DLD, includes 30-day deadline for handover requirements |
Property Index Number | Essential for Ejari and utility registrations |
Buyer Notification | Developer forwards the notice to the buyer |
Contact DLD | Buyer should contact DLD if notice is not received |
Failure to meet the handover criteria within 30 days can result in consequences. It's important to act promptly upon receiving the notice.
Property Inspection or Property Snagging
Property inspection, also known as snagging, is a critical step in the Dubai Property Handover Process. It allows the buyer to identify any defects or issues with the property.
Steps Involved:
- Conduct a thorough visual inspection of the property.
- List all identified defects and issues.
- Send the defect list to the developer.
- The developer is given a specific timeframe to address the issues.
- The buyer receives a "defects list" from the developer, outlining how the issues will be resolved.
Property inspection is a buyer's right in Dubai. It is their last chance to identify any safety hazards or structural problems before taking possession of the property.
Tips for Effective Property Inspection:
- Hire professional property inspectors if you are a first-time buyer.
- Take your time; inspections may take longer than the standard two hours.
- Ensure all defects are documented and communicated to the developer.
Notice of Property Handover
Once the developer has addressed the defects, the buyer receives a property handover notice. This notice informs the buyer to schedule a meeting with the developer's team to complete the handover process.
Steps Involved:
- Developer issues a property handover notice after resolving defects.
- Buyer schedules a meeting with the developer's team.
- Complete the property handover procedure and take possession of the property.
The property handover notice is a formal invitation to finalize the transfer of ownership. It ensures that all parties are aligned and ready for the final steps.
Final Payment
The final payment is a crucial part of the Dubai Property Handover Process. Along with the completion notice, the buyer receives a handover pack, which includes the developer's account statement.
Steps Involved:
- Review the handover pack and account statement thoroughly.
- Clear any outstanding balances listed in the statement.
- Make the final payment in two installments: one at contract signing and the other on or before delivery.
Common Fees Included in the Final Payment:
- Last installments of the property price.
- Fines for late payments.
- Miscellaneous charges such as Oqood fees, title deed issuance fees, service charges, administration fees, and utility registration fees.
Fee Type | Description |
---|---|
Last Installments | Final dues from the total property price |
Late Payment Fines | Fines for any late payments |
4% of the original property price, paid to DLD | |
Title Deed Issuance Fees | AED 250 for title deed, AED 20 for innovation and knowledge fees |
Service Charges | Costs for managing, maintaining, and repairing the property |
Administration Fees | One-time fee paid to the developer for document processing |
Utility Registration Fees | Fees for activating water and electricity utilities |
Clearing these fees ensures a smooth transition and avoids any legal or financial complications.
2. Miscellaneous Charges
Dubai Property Handover Process includes several miscellaneous charges that buyers must be aware of before the property handover.
Common Miscellaneous Charges:
- Oqood Fees: This is an online portal fee for off-plan property management in Dubai. It is generally 4% of the original property price and is paid to the DLD.
- Title Deed Issuance Fees: Property buyers must pay AED 250 for the title deed issuance and AED 20 for innovation and knowledge fees.
- Service Charges: These cover the costs of managing, maintaining, operating, and repairing the property. Service charges are calculated on a per-square-foot basis.
- Administration Fees: These are one-time fees paid to the developer for processing the necessary documents for property transfer.
- Utility Registration Fees: Fees for activating water and electricity utilities through the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA).
Charge Type | Description |
---|---|
Oqood Fees | 4% of the original property price, paid to DLD |
Title Deed Issuance Fees | AED 250 for title deed, AED 20 for innovation and knowledge fees |
Service Charges | Costs for managing, maintaining, and repairing the property |
Administration Fees | One-time fee paid to the developer for document processing |
Utility Registration Fees | Fees for activating water and electricity utilities |
Note: Own your dream home in Dubai. Check out these apartments for sale in golf town damac hills.
Understanding these charges helps buyers plan their finances better and ensures a hassle-free handover process.
3. Property Ownership Transfer
The final step in the Dubai Property Handover Process is the transfer of property ownership. The Dubai Land Department (DLD) oversees this process.
Steps Involved:
- Buyer provides the necessary documentation to the DLD.
- Pay the property transfer charges at the Customer Happiness Centre (Main Office) in Dubai.
- Once the process is complete, the title deed and map are emailed to the buyer.
Required Documentation:
- Original passport and Emirates ID
- Original signed sales and purchase agreement
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the developer
- Proof of payment of all fees and charges
Document Type | Description |
---|---|
Passport and Emirates ID | Original documents required for identification |
Sales and Purchase Agreement | Original signed agreement between buyer and developer |
No Objection Certificate | NOC from the developer |
Proof of Payment | Proof of payment of all fees and charges |
Note: Discover Al Barsha with our blog on Al Barsha Area Guide.
Completing these steps ensures the legal transfer of property ownership and provides the buyer with the official title deed.
4. Notice of Property Handover
Once the developer has addressed the defects, the buyer receives a property handover notice. This notice informs the buyer to schedule a meeting with the developer's team to complete the handover process.
Steps Involved:
- Developer issues a property handover notice after resolving defects.
- Buyer schedules a meeting with the developer's team.
- Complete the property handover procedure and take possession of the property.
The property handover notice is a formal invitation to finalize the transfer of ownership. It ensures that all parties are aligned and ready for the final steps.
5. Final Payment
The final payment is a crucial part of the Dubai Property Handover Process. Along with the completion notice, the buyer receives a handover pack, which includes the developer's account statement.
Steps Involved:
- Review the handover pack and account statement thoroughly.
- Clear any outstanding balances listed in the statement.
- Make the final payment in two installments: one at contract signing and the other on or before delivery.
Common Fees Included in the Final Payment:
- Last installments of the property price.
- Fines for late payments.
- Miscellaneous charges such as Oqood fees, title deed issuance fees, service charges, administration fees, and utility registration fees.
Fee Type | Description |
---|---|
Last Installments | Final dues from the total property price |
Late Payment Fines | Fines for any late payments |
Oqood Fees | 4% of the original property price, paid to DLD |
Title Deed Issuance Fees | AED 250 for title deed, AED 20 for innovation and knowledge fees |
Service Charges | Costs for managing, maintaining, and repairing the property |
Administration Fees | One-time fee paid to the developer for document processing |
Utility Registration Fees | Fees for activating water and electricity utilities |
Clearing these fees ensures a smooth transition and avoids any legal or financial complications.
6. Miscellaneous Charges
Dubai Property Handover Process includes several miscellaneous charges that buyers must be aware of before the property handover.
Common Miscellaneous Charges:
- Oqood Fees: This is an online portal fee for off-plan property management in Dubai. It is generally 4% of the original property price and is paid to the DLD.
- Title Deed Issuance Fees: Property buyers must pay AED 250 for the title deed issuance and AED 20 for innovation and knowledge fees.
- Service Charges: These cover the costs of managing, maintaining, operating, and repairing the property. Service charges are calculated on a per-square-foot basis.
- Administration Fees: These are one-time fees paid to the developer for processing the necessary documents for property transfer.
- Utility Registration Fees: Fees for activating water and electricity utilities through the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA).
Charge Type | Description |
---|---|
Oqood Fees | 4% of the original property price, paid to DLD |
Title Deed Issuance Fees | AED 250 for title deed, AED 20 for innovation and knowledge fees |
Service Charges | Costs for managing, maintaining, and repairing the property |
Administration Fees | One-time fee paid to the developer for document processing |
Utility Registration Fees | Fees for activating water and electricity utilities |
Note: Read our exclusive blog on Rules for Flying Drones in UAE
Understanding these charges helps buyers plan their finances better and ensures a hassle-free handover process.
7. Property Ownership Transfer
The final step in the Dubai Property Handover Process is the transfer of property ownership. The Dubai Land Department (DLD) oversees this process.
Steps Involved:
- Buyer provides the necessary documentation to the DLD.
- Pay the property transfer charges at the Customer Happiness Centre (Main Office) in Dubai.
- Once the process is complete, the title deed and map are emailed to the buyer.
Required Documentation:
- Original passport and Emirates ID
- Original signed sales and purchase agreement
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the developer
- Proof of payment of all fees and charges
Document Type | Description |
---|---|
Passport and Emirates ID | Original documents required for identification |
Sales and Purchase Agreement | Original signed agreement between buyer and developer |
No Objection Certificate | NOC from the developer |
Proof of Payment | Proof of payment of all fees and charges |
Note: Read our exclusive blog on How to Get an Italy Visa from UAE
Completing these steps ensures the legal transfer of property ownership and provides the buyer with the official title deed.
8. Wrapping Up the Dubai Property Handover Process
The Dubai Property Handover Process has streamlined the property handover process, making it more transparent and efficient. By following the steps outlined in this guide, buyers can ensure a smooth and hassle-free handover experience.
Key Takeaways:
- Act promptly upon receiving the completion notice.
- Conduct a thorough property inspection to identify any defects.
- Clear all outstanding balances and miscellaneous charges.
- Complete the property ownership transfer with the DLD.
By being diligent and informed, buyers can avoid potential legal or financial issues and enjoy their new property in Dubai with peace of mind.
FAQs on Dubai Property Handover Process
What are the steps of the handover process?
The Dubai Property Handover Process involves several key steps. First, the developer issues a completion notice. Next, the buyer conducts a property inspection to identify any defects. After resolving these issues, the developer sends a handover notice. Finally, the buyer makes the final payment and completes the property ownership transfer.
Our Project Handover Checklist
A comprehensive project handover checklist includes:
- Identifying the parties involved in the handover
- Defining a clear deadline for the project handover
- Creating a communication plan early on in the process
- Updating the readme file with relevant information
- Organizing knowledge sharing sessions
- Transferring codebase ownership
How to hand over property?
To hand over property in Dubai, follow these steps:
- Receive a completion notice from the developer.
- Conduct a thorough property inspection.
- Address any identified defects with the developer.
- Receive a handover notice and schedule a meeting with the developer.
- Make the final payment and complete the property ownership transfer.
What is the process of handover preparation?
Handover preparation involves several steps to ensure a smooth transition. The process includes handling procedures such as user and radio network measurements, preparing resources in the target network, directing the user to new radio resources, and releasing the old resources.
What is the handover takeover process?
The handover-takeover (HOTO) process is a structured method of transferring duties, responsibilities, and assets when an employee leaves, gets promoted, or is terminated. A smooth HOTO ensures business continuity, maintains productivity, and safeguards critical information.
What is a handover checklist?
A handover checklist ensures a smooth transfer of responsibilities, projects, or tasks from one party to another. It acts as a detailed roadmap, reducing confusion and preventing essential duties from falling through the cracks.
How to prepare a handover plan?
To prepare a handover plan, follow these steps:
- Identify the handover type and scope
- Designate the stakeholders and their roles
- Decide on the handover format and deliverable
- Gather all relevant information and data
- Prepare and upload the documentation
- Set and conduct a handover meeting
- Tie up loose ends
What is a handover in real estate?
In real estate, a handover occurs when construction is completed, and the buyer is given the keys to their new property. This process is crucial for off-plan property purchases, which are typically paid for using a payment plan offered by the developer.
How do you hand over ownership?
To hand over ownership of a property, both the buyer and seller must notify the relevant authorities of the change. In Dubai, this involves providing necessary documentation to the Dubai Land Department (DLD) and paying the property transfer charges.
How do you hand over duties?
Handing over duties involves creating a document that includes:
- Detailed information on day-to-day activities, tasks, and priorities
- An outline of the key points of the role
- A clear outline of what is expected of the successor
- A list of any essential files that will be handed over
How to do a proper handover list?
To create a proper handover list, follow these steps:
- Identify the purpose and scope of the handover document
- Consider the format and organization of the document
- Create a list of tasks or responsibilities
- Gather all relevant documents and information
What is the soft handover process?
A soft handover involves maintaining the connection between the mobile node (MN) and its access point (AP) until a new connection is established with another AP. This "make before break" mechanism ensures continuous connectivity.
Own your dream home in Dubai. Check out these hot-selling Dubai Villas mansions for sale.
What is handover schedule?
A handover schedule involves transferring critical information and documentation to ensure smooth work continuity. This is especially important when the replacement is a new employee, helping them adapt quickly and efficiently to their new role.
What is the process of handover?
The handover process involves transferring jobs and responsibilities from one employee to another. A seamless transition minimizes disruption, maintains business confidence, and ensures continuity.
Element | Description |
---|---|
Completion Notice | Issued by the developer to mark project completion |
Property Inspection | Conducted by the buyer to identify defects |
Handover Notice | Issued by the developer after resolving defects |
Final Payment | Made by the buyer to complete the handover process |
Ownership Transfer | Final step involving documentation and payment to DLD |
Steps to Prepare for Handover
- Identify the handover type and scope
- Designate stakeholders and their roles
- Decide on the handover format and deliverable
- Gather all relevant information and data
- Prepare and upload the documentation
- Set and conduct a handover meeting
- Tie up loose ends
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is intended for general informational purposes only. The details mentioned are based on the best available information at the time of publication and are subject to change without notice by the respective authorities. Readers are encouraged to consult the relevant offices directly for the most accurate and updated information.
Related Topics
Top Sectors for Investment in Dubai in 2025
How To Liquidate A Company in UAE
Cost of Setting Up a Company in Dubai
25 Most Profitable Business Ideas in Dubai
How Dubai Plans To Improve Traffic
UAE Flights Ranked World’s Safest Airlines (2025)
Thinking about investing in Dubai?
Thinking about investing in Dubai? DAMAC Properties is the name to know. As a frontrunner in luxury real estate, DAMAC has set the standard with stunning homes and business spaces that capture the essence of Dubai living. From the serene surroundings of DAMAC Lagoons to the lively communities of DAMAC Hills and DAMAC Hills 2, each development is crafted to offer an unmatched lifestyle. Attention to detail and a commitment to quality are at the heart of every project, ensuring a seamless blend of luxury, innovation, and lasting value. For those ready to make a smart investment in Dubai, DAMAC Properties presents the ideal opportunity to step into a world of elegance and excellence.
DAMAC’s commitment to quality is evident in every aspect of its developments. From high-end finishes and innovative designs to sustainable features that enhance the environment, each property is built with precision and care. These developments not only represent luxury but also offer excellent investment potential, making them an ideal choice for those seeking to grow their portfolio in Dubai's thriving real estate market.