Question 1

What does real estate law cover in the UAE?

Accepted Answer

Real estate law in the UAE covers the full life cycle of property ownership and use. It governs property sales and purchases, leasing and tenancy arrangements, development and construction, registration and title matters, mortgages and securities, owners association issues, and real estate disputes before regulators and the courts. It also ensures compliance with emirate-level regulations, planning rules, and foreign ownership restrictions.

Question 2

Can expatriates own property in the UAE?

Accepted Answer

Yes, expatriates can own property in the UAE, but usually only in designated freehold or leasehold areas approved for foreign ownership. The rules differ between emirates and between onshore and free zone developments. We guide clients on where and how expatriates can purchase, the type of title available, registration requirements, and how to structure ownership to safeguard long-term interests and succession planning.

Question 3

How are property disputes resolved in the UAE?

Accepted Answer

Property disputes in the UAE are generally resolved through specialist real estate dispute centres, rental dispute committees, or the UAE courts, depending on the nature of the dispute and the relevant emirate. Common disputes include sale and purchase disagreements, tenancy issues, construction defects, delays, service charge claims, and ownership or registration conflicts. We represent clients in negotiations, mediation, regulatory proceedings, and full litigation to protect their rights.

Question 4

What contracts are needed in real estate transactions?

Accepted Answer

Key contracts in UAE real estate matters include sale and purchase agreements, reservation or booking forms, tenancy contracts, long-term lease agreements, development and joint venture contracts, property management agreements, and facility or service agreements. We review, draft, and negotiate these contracts to ensure legal protection, regulatory compliance, clear obligations, and practical risk allocation for buyers, sellers, landlords, tenants, and developers.

Question 5

Is off-plan property regulated in the UAE?

Accepted Answer

Yes, off-plan property is regulated in the UAE, with each emirate imposing rules on developer registration, project approvals, escrow accounts, and disclosure obligations. Developers must be licensed and meet regulatory conditions before marketing units or collecting payments. We advise buyers and developers on off-plan contracts, escrow arrangements, handover obligations, delay and cancellation scenarios, and dispute resolution to safeguard financial and legal interests.

Question 6

Can landlords evict tenants easily in the UAE?

Accepted Answer

Landlords cannot evict tenants arbitrarily. Eviction is allowed only on specific legal grounds defined by tenancy laws and regulations, such as non-payment of rent, unlawful use of the property, or legitimate need for personal use or redevelopment, and must follow strict notice and procedure requirements. We guide landlords and tenants on their rights and obligations, negotiate settlements where possible, and represent clients before rental dispute centres and courts when necessary.

Question 7

Are mortgages regulated in the UAE?

Accepted Answer

Yes, mortgages in the UAE are regulated, with the UAE Central Bank setting rules on lending practices, loan-to-value ratios, eligibility, and consumer protection. Mortgage agreements must be registered, and property must meet title and regulatory requirements. We support borrowers, lenders, and investors by reviewing mortgage terms, ensuring compliance, advising on security structures, and representing parties in default, enforcement, and restructuring scenarios.

Question 8

Can disputes involve property service charges and owners association fees?

Accepted Answer

Yes, disputes frequently arise in relation to service charges, maintenance fees, and owners association costs in jointly owned properties. Owners may challenge excessive, unfair, or non-transparent fees, while developers and managers may pursue unpaid amounts. We advise owners, investors, and associations on their rights under jointly owned property laws, review budgets and service charge structures, and represent clients in negotiations and formal proceedings to resolve disputes.

Question 9

Are property transactions taxed in the UAE?

Accepted Answer

There is generally no recurring property tax in most emirates, but transfer fees and registration charges apply when buying, selling, or transferring property. These fees vary by emirate and may be shared between buyer and seller depending on contract terms. Certain transactions can also attract VAT, particularly on commercial property and some development activities. We advise clients on applicable fees, tax implications, and how to structure transactions in compliance with UAE law.

Question 10

How does Al Kabban & Associates support clients in real estate matters?

Accepted Answer

Al Kabban & Associates provides comprehensive legal support across UAE real estate matters. We advise and represent buyers, sellers, developers, landlords, tenants, investors, and financial institutions in property acquisitions, disposals, leasing, development projects, off-plan transactions, and disputes. Our team combines more than 30 years of UAE legal expertise with practical, strategic guidance to protect property interests, ensure compliance, and resolve conflicts efficiently through negotiation, regulatory processes, or litigation.

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Dr Reyadh Al Kabban

Saif Al Mutawa

Amina Bin Jafar

Majid Al Kabban

Mohamed Lamloum Ratib

Hany Atef El Ashhat

Benoy Sasi

Sara Al Kabban

Sulaiman Rameez

Mohamed Zaineldin Mohamed

Urvi Raghunath

Amr Abdul Aziz Ahmed

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Mina Sami Mansour

Hassan Hamed

Sachi Goyal

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