How to sell your Dubai property without an agent

Can I legally sell without an agent?

Yes. Dubai Land Department (DLD) recognises sales without a broker. You find the buyer and arrange the paperwork; the official ownership transfer is still required. Official contract

Where do I start?

Contact a DLD-approved registration trustee - an authorised property-transfer office. Ask for the documents, payment process and fee quote. Mention any mortgage, tenant or additional owner. DLD transfer service

How do I set the price?

Compare recent sales of similar homes, allowing for size, condition and tenants. Set your minimum after selling costs. Price-comparison guide

Where can I find a buyer?

Use platforms accepting owner listings, including distress.ae for urgent or below-market sales. Add photos, accurate details, price and viewing arrangements.

Before posting, ask DLD which permit you need and check the platform rules. Being the owner does not automatically exempt your advert. Already have a buyer? Skip advertising.

What documents should I prepare?

• Title deed, identification and developer clearance (NOC) for freehold sales.
• If applicable: mortgage settlement letter; tenancy agreement, Ejari (registered tenancy) and rent/deposit records.

Confirm the exact documents and timing with the transfer office. Keep personal papers private. DLD requirements

Who prepares the contract if there is no agent?

Ask the transfer office how to arrange the sale contract without a broker. DLD's Form F allows this. Record price, payment, deadlines, finance conditions, fees and handover. Check the buyer's funding and resolve unclear terms before signing. Form F

Who holds the buyer's deposit?

Agree who holds the deposit and when it can be returned or released. Put this in writing with the buyer and confirm it with your transfer office or legal adviser. Do not assume the office holds deposits or a failed sale lets you keep the money.

Can I start the sale myself in Dubai REST?

Yes. DLD's published steps are:

1. Sign in and open Property Wallet.
2. Choose your property → Property Services → Sell Property.
3. Follow the prompts for your ownership share, property, bank and buyer details.
4. Save the booking reference for the buyer.

This starts the application; it does not finish the transfer. Confirm eligibility and follow the current app prompts. DLD walkthrough

Can I sell if I still have a mortgage?

Yes. Involve your bank early. Confirm the settlement amount, repayment and mortgage-release steps with the bank and transfer office. Include the buyer's lender if they need finance. DLD mortgage-sale process

What fees will I still pay?

Government and transaction charges remain. DLD lists a 4% transfer fee: 2% seller and 2% buyer. Write in the contract who pays each share, including any agreed different split.

Also budget for applicable transfer-office, developer and bank charges. DLD fees

Already signed with an agent? Check that agreement before assuming no commission is owed. Selling directly does not guarantee a 2% saving. DLD commission guidance

What if my property has a tenant?

The sale does not end a tenant's fixed-term lease. Tell the buyer the lease terms and agree how to handle rent and the deposit. Only promise an empty home if you can legally deliver it. Dubai tenancy law, Article 28

When do I hand over the keys?

Once the transfer is complete and payment is confirmed, as agreed in your contract. Verify this with the transfer office and bank; a payment screenshot alone is not enough. Record keys, furniture and bills. Keep the contract and receipts.