Costs Involved in Selling a Property in Abu Dhabi
Thinking of selling your property in Abu Dhabi? Before listing your home, it’s essential to understand the costs involved in the process. From agent commissions to legal and transfer fees, several expenses can influence your final profit.
Whether you’re an investor or a homeowner planning to upgrade, knowing what to expect helps you plan better and avoid surprises.
Real Estate Agent Commission
Most sellers in Abu Dhabi work with a licensed real estate agent to market their property effectively. Agents usually charge a commission of 2% of the sale price, payable upon the successful completion of the transaction.
While this may seem like a significant amount, a trusted agent can help streamline negotiations, attract serious buyers, and handle the paperwork professionally, saving you time and effort in the long run.
Property Valuation Fee
Before listing your home, you may want to get an official property valuation. This helps determine a realistic selling price based on current market trends.
- Approximate cost: AED 2,500–AED 3,000 (depending on the property type and size)
Banks or certified valuers accredited by the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) usually handle this process.
Transfer Fees
When selling a property in Abu Dhabi, both the buyer and seller share the property transfer fees.
- The standard DMT transfer fee is 2% of the property’s sale price, often split equally between both parties unless agreed otherwise.
These fees cover the cost of registering the property transfer with government authorities and legally finalizing the transaction.]
NOC (No Objection Certificate) Fee
If your property is in a freehold development, the developer will issue a No Objection Certificate (NOC) confirming there are no outstanding dues or violations before transferring ownership.
- Typical cost: AED 500–AED 5,000, depending on the developer
Obtaining an NOC usually takes a few working days and is an essential step before completing the sale.
Mortgage Settlement Fee
If your property is still under mortgage, you’ll need to settle the outstanding loan before the transfer.
Banks in Abu Dhabi often charge a mortgage release fee, which can range from 0.5% to 1% of the remaining loan amount.
You’ll also need to obtain a clearance letter from the bank, which confirms that the loan has been fully repaid.
Administrative & Registration Costs
Aside from the main fees, there are smaller administrative or registration costs, such as:
- Document attestation or translation fees (if applicable)
- Title deed issuance fees
- Trustee office service charges
These usually range between AED 500 and AED 2,000. Although minor compared to the total sale value, they’re worth including in your budget to avoid shortfalls.
Capital Gains & Other Considerations
One of the biggest advantages of selling property in the UAE is that there are no capital gains taxes. This means you keep more of your profit compared to many global markets.
However, if you’re selling on behalf of a company or foreign entity, it’s wise to review any applicable business-related taxes or compliance rules to stay aligned with current regulations.
How to Budget for a Smooth Sale
Here’s a quick breakdown of common costs sellers in Abu Dhabi should anticipate:
- Agent Commission: 2% of the sale price
- DMT Transfer Fee: 2% (usually split with the buyer)
- Valuation Fee: AED 2,500–3,000
- NOC Fee: AED 500–5,000
- Mortgage Release Fee: 0.5–1% of the remaining loan amount
- Administrative/Registration Fees: AED 500–2,000
While these figures may vary depending on the property’s location, type, and developer, they offer a clear starting point for budgeting your sale effectively.
Final Thoughts
Selling a property in Abu Dhabi involves more than just finding a buyer; it’s about understanding the process and planning for the financial aspects that come with it. With clear insight into these costs, you can price your property strategically and manage your expectations before closing the deal.
If you’re planning to sell your property in Abu Dhabi, Property Shop Investment (PSI) can help you navigate the process smoothly and connect you with qualified buyers ready to invest in your area.
