Everything You Need to Know About Off-Plan Property in Dubai
Off-plan property in Dubai refers to real estate that is sold before construction is completed, allowing buyers to invest early at potentially lower prices. With attractive prices, flexible payment plans, and strong potential for capital appreciation, off-plan properties appeal to both local and international buyers. Investor confidence is further enhanced by supportive government initiatives, including long-term Golden Visas and expanded foreign ownership regulations. As demand rises steadily, off-plan projects offer compelling opportunities for end-users and investors, reinforcing Dubai’s position as a global leader in real estate innovation.
Top Locations for Buying Off-Plan Property in Dubai
From ultra-luxury residences in prime locations to affordable communities with excellent amenities, there is a wide selection of developments for investors and homebuyers.
Top Areas to Buy Off-Plan Apartment Projects in Dubai
- Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC): A popular choice for budget-conscious buyers, featuring projects like The Orchard Place and Sky Vista, complemented by excellent community amenities.
- Business Bay: A prime location for investment, home to prestigious developments like Peninsula and Binghatti Skyrise, ideal for professionals and high-yield investors.
- Dubai Hills Estate: A premium residential area offering family-friendly projects such as Park Heights and Ellington House, with lush landscapes and views of the golf course.
- Dubai Islands: A luxury waterfront community featuring Bay Grove Residences and Rixos Dubai Islands, designed for those seeking a mix of luxury and leisure.
- Arjan: An emerging neighborhood known for its affordability and modern developments like Vincitore Boulevard and Jewelz by Danube.
Top Areas to Buy Off-Plan Villa Projects in Dubai
- Mohammed Bin Rashid City: Home to The Sanctuary by Ellington and Mira Villas by Bentley Home, offering ultra-luxurious villas with premium finishes and smart technology.
- Tilal Al Ghaf: Features Serenity Mansions and Elysian Mansions, providing waterfront and nature-inspired villas with top-tier community facilities.
- Dubailand: A growing residential hub with projects like Haven by Aldar and Paradise Hills, offering family-friendly villas with modern layouts.
- Athlon by Aldar: Home to upcoming villa communities such as Vitalon and Chion, designed for wellness-focused living with outdoor-centric amenities.
- DAMAC Lagoons: A Mediterranean-inspired community with clusters like Portofino and Venice, offering resort-style waterfront villas with world-class amenities and leisure facilities.
Top Freehold Areas for Expats
- Dubai South
- Arjan
- Downtown Dubai
- Business Bay
- Dubailand
Top Projects for Buying Off-Plan Property in Dubai
Top Luxury Off-Plan Projects in Dubai
- Cavalli Couture: Situated along the Dubai Water Canal, Cavalli Couture by DAMAC offers ultra-luxury waterfront residences featuring signature Roberto Cavalli interiors. Prices start from AED 16.5M with a 60/40 payment plan, and handover is expected in Q2 2025.
- Burj Binghatti Jacob & Co Residences: Located in the heart of Business Bay, this signature tower by Binghatti redefines branded luxury living. With prices starting from AED 8.2M and an 80/20 payment plan, completion is expected in Q2 2026.
- Karl Lagerfeld Villas: Set in the exclusive Meydan area, this development by Taraf offers luxurious villas starting from AED 15M with a 60/40 payment plan. Handover is scheduled for Q2 2027, promising a high-end living experience.
- Nineteen Riviera Lagoon: Nestled in MBR City, this waterfront project by Riviera Properties Development offers private lagoon views. Homes start from AED 23M with a 50/50 payment plan, and the project is set for completion in Q1 2027.
- Knightsbridge 2: Located in MBR City, Knightsbridge 2 by LEOS Developments offers units starting at AED 13.8M, with a flexible payment plan. The project is expected to be handed over in Q4 2027.
Top Affordable Off-Plan Projects Dubai
- Cubix Residences: Developed by QUBE Development and located in Jumeirah Village Circle, this project offers homes starting from AED 660K with a 50/50 payment plan. Completion is expected in Q2 2025, providing an affordable option in a central location.
- Elbrus Tower: This modern tower by Tiger Properties, located in Jumeirah Village Triangle (JVT), offers homes starting from AED 614K, with a 54/46 payment plan. Handover is scheduled for Q1 2026.
- Azizi Beach Oasis: This resort-style development by Azizi Developments, located in Dubai Studio City, offers homes starting from AED 457K with a flexible payment plan. Completion is expected in Q2 2025, offering a serene lifestyle in a vibrant community.
- Samana Santorini: Located in Dubai Studio City, Samana Santorini by Samana Developers offers homes starting from AED 480K. Handover is due in Q1 2025, and a flexible payment plan is available.
- Azizi Vista: Another well-designed project by Azizi in Dubai Studio City, Azizi Vista offers homes starting from AED 585K. The development is set for completion in Q2 2025, with a 30/70 payment plan.
Top Off-Plan Projects Near Landmarks in Dubai
- W Residences: Developed by Arada, this ultra-luxury project is located in Dubai Harbour, near iconic landmarks such as Ain Dubai and Palm Jumeirah. Units start from AED 4.27M with a 60/40 payment plan, and handover is scheduled for Q4 2027.
- Madinat Jumeirah Living: A signature community by Meraas, nestled in the charming Umm Suqeim area and set against the backdrop of the Burj Al Arab. This project offers apartments starting from AED 1.46M, features a flexible payment plan, and is expected to be completed in Q2 2025.
- Vela Viento: An upscale waterfront development by OMNIYAT, located in the heart of Business Bay with direct access to Dubai Mall. Prices start from AED 20M with a 60/40 payment plan, and handover is set for Q2 2027.
- Burj Azizi: A premium high-rise project by Azizi Developments, located near the Museum of the Future. Residences start from AED 7.5M with a 50/50 post-handover payment plan, and completion is expected in Q3 2030.
- Address Residences Zabeel: Developed by Emaar Properties, this high-end residential project overlooks the iconic Dubai Frame and offers panoramic views of the city. Prices start from AED 1.8M with a 90/10 payment plan, with project completion scheduled for Q3 2029.
Top Off-Plan Projects with Waterfront Views in Dubai
- Armani Beach Residences: Developed by Arada and set on the iconic Palm Jumeirah, this ultra-luxury project offers homes starting from AED 21.5M with a 60/40 payment plan. Handover is anticipated in Q4 2026.
- The Palm Beach Towers: Developed by Nakheel and located on Palm Jumeirah, this stunning development offers panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf and Dubai skyline. With prices from AED 2M and a 60/40 payment plan, the project is set to welcome residents by Q4 2026.
- Marina Views: A modern waterfront development by Emaar Properties, located in the heart of Mina Rashid, Marina Views combines spacious living with uninterrupted views of the marina and skyline. Units start from AED 1.65M, and handover is planned for Q4 2028. An 80/20 payment plan is available.
- LIV LUX: Developed by LIV Developers, this high-rise residential tower in Dubai Marina offers elegant waterfront living, with prices beginning at AED 1.85M. A 40/60 post-handover payment plan is available, and the project is expected to be completed in Q4 2026.
- Oceanz by Danube: A waterfront lifestyle project by Danube Properties, located in Dubai Maritime City. Oceanz features stylish apartments starting from AED 1.1M. With a 64/36 payment plan on offer, the development is scheduled for completion in Q1 2027.
Top Off-Plan Branded Residence Projects in Dubai
- Bugatti Residences: An ultra-luxury project by Binghatti, Bugatti Residences offers opulent homes starting from AED 19.1M with a 70/30 payment plan. Completion is expected in 2025, bringing a touch of luxury to Business Bay’s skyline.
- W Residences Downtown Dubai: Bringing the iconic W Hotels lifestyle to residential living, this project offers units starting from AED 1.6M with a 60/40 payment plan. Handover is scheduled for Q3 2026, offering an unmatched lifestyle in the heart of Downtown Dubai.
- Address Grand Downtown: Overlooking Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountain, Address Grand Downtown by Nshama delivers premium serviced residences in a prime location. Starting from AED 11M, the development is expected to be handed over in Q2 2028. A 70/30 payment plan is available, combining luxury with ease of ownership.
- Armani Beach Residences: Developed by Arada and located on Palm Jumeirah, this luxurious beachside project offers signature Armani-designed residences starting at AED 21.5M with a 60/40 payment plan. Featuring sophisticated interiors and expansive living spaces.
- Mercedes-Benz Places by Binghatti: This landmark collaboration between Binghatti and Mercedes-Benz, located in Downtown Dubai, combines smart design with luxury. Prices start from AED 8.8M with a 70/30 payment plan, and handover is expected in Q4 2026
Leading Developers Behind Dubai’s Newest Projects
- Emaar Properties: A global real estate giant behind iconic developments such as Downtown Dubai, Dubai Hills Estate, and Arabian Ranches.
- Nakheel: The master developer responsible for landmarks like Palm Jumeirah and Dubai Islands.
- DAMAC Properties: Known for its high-end projects such as DAMAC Lagoons, Safa Two, and Cavalli Tower.
- Meraas: The developer behind notable projects like Bluewaters Residences, City Walk, and Port de La Mer.
- Ellington Properties: Recognized for high-end residential developments like Wilton Park Residences, The Portman, and Ocean House.
Benefits of Buying an Off-Plan Property in Dubai
- Golden Visa Eligibility: Purchasing off-plan property above a certain investment threshold can qualify buyers for the UAE’s long-term Golden Visa.
- Lower Purchase Prices & Flexible Payment Plans: Off-plan properties are generally priced lower than ready units, with attractive pre-launch offers and phased payment plans.
- High Capital Appreciation: As developments progress, property values typically increase, offering significant returns on investment by the time of project completion.
- Customisation & First Choice of Units: Buyers can select from premium layouts, views, and configurations while sometimes having the option to request modifications to suit their preferences.
- Government Regulations & Buyer Protection: Dubai’s Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA) enforces strict regulations, such as escrow accounts and project completion guarantees.
- Strong Rental Yields: Dubai’s high rental demand, especially in key locations, ensures strong rental yields upon project completion.
- Modern Amenities & Smart Technologies: New projects feature state-of-the-art designs, sustainable building practices, and smart home technologies.
Exploring Off-Plan Property Payment Plans in Dubai
Developers provide attractive schemes such as post-handover plans, milestone-based payments, and low down payments (often as low as 5-10%). These plans enable buyers to distribute costs over several years, reducing financial strain. Additionally, interest-free payments and escrow-protected transactions enhance buyer confidence. With options like 60/40 or 70/30 plans, where a major portion is paid post-handover, off-plan investments cater to a wide range of budgets and financial strategies.
Can You Get a Mortgage for Off-Plan Properties in Dubai?
Financing off-plan properties in Dubai is possible through select banks and financial institutions offering mortgage options under specific conditions. UAE residents may secure financing up to 50% of the property value, while non-residents may face stricter requirements. Some developers offer in-house financing, providing alternatives for buyers who may not qualify for traditional mortgages. Given the varying eligibility criteria, consulting a mortgage advisor or TruBroker™ can help buyers navigate financing options effectively.
How to Buy an Off-Plan Property in Dubai
Process
- Research & Select a Property: Identify a suitable off-plan project based on budget, location, and developer reputation. Bayut’s TruCheck™ listings can help verify availability.
- Review the Developer & Project Details: Check RERA approvals, developer track record, and escrow account registration to ensure credibility.
- Reserve the Property: Secure the unit by paying a booking fee (typically 5-10% of the property price) and signing a Sales and Purchase Agreement (SPA).
- Payment Plan & Instalments: Follow the developer’s structured payment plan, usually spread across construction milestones, with a final payment upon completion.
Essential Documents
- For UAE Residents: Emirates ID, passport copy, proof of income, and signed SPA.
- For Non-Residents: Passport copy, proof of funds, and developer approval.
- Mortgage Buyers: Additional bank documents and mortgage pre-approval if financing the purchase.
Fees
- Dubai Land Department (DLD) Fees: A 4% registration fee applies to all property transactions.
- Oqood Registration: A pre-title deed registration fee, usually 2-4% of the property price.
- Brokerage Fees: If applicable, typically 2% of the property value.
Legal Aspects & Regulations
- Escrow Accounts: Developers must deposit payments into a DLD-regulated escrow account to ensure project completion.
- RERA Regulations: Off-plan projects must be registered with the Real Estate Regulatory Authority to protect buyers.
- Resale Restrictions: Some developers impose restrictions on selling before construction reaches a specific stage.
- Handover & Completion: Upon completion, the final payment is made, and the title deed is transferred to the buyer.