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Off-plan

Off-plan projects in Dubai

New homes sold before completion, on payment plans spread across the build. We show the plan, the expected handover and what protects your money — read the off-plan guide first if you're new to it.

6 properties

What is off-plan property?

Off-plan property is a home bought from the developer before construction is complete. You pay a booking amount, sign a sale and purchase agreement, and the sale is registered on the Dubai Land Department's Oqood system. Instalments are paid into a project escrow account regulated by RERA under Law 8 of 2007, and the developer can draw on it only as construction milestones are certified.

Payment plans vary: a classic plan might be 10–20% on booking, instalments during construction and the balance at handover; post-handover plans (for example 60/40) spread part of the price over two or three years after you receive the keys.

What to check before you book

Confirm the project is registered with RERA and has an escrow account, read the handover-delay and specification clauses in the SPA, check the developer's delivery record, and understand the resale rules — many developers only allow resale after a set percentage has been paid. Our guides to snagging and title deed verification cover the handover stage.

Questions

What people usually ask

Is off-plan property a good investment in Dubai?

It can be: off-plan often launches below comparable ready prices and payment plans reduce the capital you tie up. The risks are construction delays, market movement before handover and resale restrictions. Choose established developers and read the SPA carefully.

What is a post-handover payment plan?

A plan where part of the price — often 30–50% — is paid in instalments after you take the keys, typically over two to five years. It lets you let the property and use rent toward the remaining payments, but the total price is often higher than on a standard plan.

Can I get a mortgage on off-plan property in Dubai?

Some UAE banks lend on off-plan property from approved developers, usually once construction is well advanced and up to lower loan-to-value limits than ready homes. Most off-plan buyers pay during construction from their own funds and mortgage the balance at handover.

What happens if an off-plan project is cancelled?

If RERA cancels a project, the law provides for buyer refunds from the escrow account. That is why confirming the escrow account and RERA registration before paying anything matters.