Buying Off-Plan in the UAE: What to Check Before You Commit

Off-plan property can offer attractive prices and flexible payment plans, but it requires more diligence than buying a ready home. Here is what to check before you commit. 1. Verify the developer and project Confirm the developer is registered and the project is approved and escrow-compliant in its emirate. Review the developer's delivered projects, not just its brochures. 2. Understand the payment plan Compare the construction-linked milestones, the post-handover portion, and the total price including land department fees, Oqood or registration costs, and service charges after handover. 3. Read the Sales and Purchase Agreement (SPA) The SPA governs everything: unit specifications, completion date, delay terms, and penalties. Pay special attention to what happens if handover is late and what finishes are guaranteed. 4. Check the location's future Off-plan value depends heavily on the surrounding master plan: roads, schools, retail, and transport links. Visit the site area and review what is actually built today versus promised. 5. Plan your exit and holding costs Know the resale rules before completion, expected service charges, and realistic rents in the community. Compare off-plan projects and ready alternatives on AqarOS before deciding.