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Questions answered
76, in 9 sections
Fact sheets
8, as PDF downloads

Frequently asked questions

The answers Emaar gives most often — on contracts, mortgages, handover, alterations, registration, transfers and succession. Search them all, or open a section below.

01 — Contracts

Contracts

The sale agreement itself — what it is, who signs it, and what to do when it changes.

What is the difference between leasehold and freehold properties?

A Leasehold property refers to a property leased by Emaar Properties to a Lessee for a specified term. A Freehold property is a property that is sold outright for a specific purchase price to a Purchaser and there is no limit on ownership rights.

Why is the rate of maintenance fees not specified in the sale agreement?

The rate of maintenance fees fluctuates depending on the yearly costs and expenses involved in the maintenance, operation, and upkeep of common areas within the community. However the Sale Agreement does mention the payment of maintenance fees.

Why do we sign sale agreements with subsidiaries such as Springs, Meadows, Arabian Ranches, and Dubai Marina, instead of Emaar?

The Sale Agreement is typically signed between the Purchaser and the respective Company that is acting as the Vendor. However, the Vendor company is a subsidiary of Emaar Properties, which oversees the larger developments.

Why does the Sale Agreement state that interest will be charged if the customer defaults, but the vendor can delay completion without penalty?

Due to the unpredictable nature of construction timelines, the Sale Agreement specifies an estimated completion date for construction. However, the Vendor retains the right to reschedule the completion date within certain time limit beyond the Estimated Completion Date whereby the Vendor can delay the Completion of the project. Delays are typically only caused by factors outside the Vendor's control, such as Force Majeure.

Can we receive a Sale Agreement in Arabic?

Currently, the Sale Agreement is only available in English.

Can I add or delete names from my Sale Agreement?

From a legal perspective, adding or deleting names is considered a transfer of ownership and customers would require applying for a NOC from Emaar. These changes must be recorded in the Land Department's register, with applicable administrative fees paid to the vendor and transfer fees to the Land Department.

What happens if I lose my Sale Agreement?

If you lose your Sale Agreement, you will need to visit the Contracts Helpdesk and sign an indemnity form. Additionally, you must submit a police report, or an affidavit notarized by a public notary explaining the loss. After verifying the authenticity of your request, a new Sale Agreement will be issued, upon payment of a nominal fee of AED 3,000.

How many days does it take to receive my contract for signature from the date of sales launch?

For off-plan properties purchased during a launch, it typically takes between 21-40 days for the Vendor to issue the Sales and Purchase Agreement (SPA) after purchase date. This is due to the necessary approvals and documentation compliance, including the clearance of down payments, registration charges, and Oqood fees. At times, there is interdependency from the Lands Department to get the plot numbers particularly for town homes or villas which are printed on the agreements. For completed properties purchased, the SPA issuance is usually between 15-20 days, subject to approval and documentation compliance.

02 — Mortgages

Mortgages

Registering, discharging and transferring a mortgage over an Emaar property.

What is a mortgage?

A mortgage is a type of loan where the borrower pledges the title/property documents to real estate as collateral for a loan. In the event the borrower fails to repay the loan on time, the lender has the legal right to foreclose on the property and sell it to recover the outstanding debt/loan.

Why do I need to register the mortgage of my property with Emaar Properties?

Emaar Properties registers the mortgage over any of its properties upon the purchaser's request to protect the interest of the financing bank. Emaar will also issue an undertaking letter / Consent to Mortgage and Charge / Sale Addendum to this effect. However, Emaar's undertaking expires in the event of completing the title deed registration or full repayment of the loan, whichever is earlier.

When and where can I register a mortgage with Emaar Properties?

You may visit our Customer Care Centre at Emaar Square, B2, G Level or apply for a request for mortgage registration/ discharge via E-services available on Emaar App or Emaar website.

Why do I need to pay a mortgage registration fee?

A nominal fee of AED 5,000 is charged for registration of the mortgage with Emaar to cover all administrative costs. Emaar also provides an undertaking to the Bank / Financial Institution to protect the interest of the Bank / Financial Institution in the mortgaged property.

What should I do if I want to change my lender after my property has been financed previously?

If you wish to change your lender, you must first apply for a discharge of the existing mortgage or charge over the property. After that, you will need to register the new mortgage or charge. This process must be completed both at the Emaar office and the Dubai Land Department.

Do I need to register my mortgage at the Land Department as well?

Yes, registering your mortgage with the Dubai Land Department is mandatory.

Can I authorize a representative to complete the mortgage registration on my behalf?

Yes, a representative can act on your behalf provided they hold a notarized and legalized Power of Attorney from all registered owners of the property, stating that the attorney has been given the power to sign for discharge of mortgage requests.

How long does it take to process the mortgage registration or discharge?

The mortgage registration or discharge process typically takes 10 working days to complete.

Can I transfer my property if it is mortgaged?

The Purchaser will have to provide a clearance letter from the financier regarding settlement of all dues towards the property to initiate the transfer.

Is life insurance mandatory when buying a freehold property with Emaar?

No, Emaar does not require Purchasers to have life insurance. However, if you are financing the purchase through a mortgage loan facility from a Bank / Financial Institution, they may require life insurance.

03 — Emaar Preferred Access

Emaar Preferred Access

A programme for long-term investors and end users at project launches.

What is Emaar Preferred Access?

The Emaar Preferred Access Programme is a customer-focused initiative launched to provide long-term investors and end-users with the opportunities to invest in our latest project launches. The initiative was introduced in response to high demand to our project launches and several end-user and long-term investors missed the opportunity to buy an Emaar property. The Emaar Preferred Access Programme is subject to the below terms and conditions.

What are the terms and conditions of the Emaar Preferred Access Programme?
Eligibility and registration
Customers may opt into the Emaar Preferred Access Programme (“Programme”) either online during launch registration or by visiting an Emaar Sales Centre. Emaar reserves the right, at its sole discretion and without liability, to accept, reject, or request additional conditions for any application to the Programme.
No guarantee of sale
Opting for and availing from the Programme does not bind Emaar to sell any property. The purchase of any property is subject to availability, agreement on Emaar's relevant terms and conditions of sale and final approval of the sale of the property by Emaar.
Registration channels
Customers would have the choice to register on the Programme either through online or at Emaar Sales Centre(s).
Non-transferability
The enrollment to the Programme is irrevocable and non-transferable and cannot be used to purchase properties in the name and/or for the benefit of third parties.
Restrictions on property transfer
Any property purchased under the Programme is non-transferable prior to the payment of at least fifty percent (50%) of the purchase price of the property. In the case of full-floor purchases, no transfer or assignment is permitted prior to its handover.
Minimum down payment
Twenty percent 20% of the total property value, or a higher percentage as may be requested and increased from time to time by Emaar at its sole discretion is required to be paid at the time of purchase.
Documentation requirements
All required documentation must be submitted to Emaar at the time of purchase.
Additional terms
Additional terms and conditions shall apply including without limitation the terms and conditions of online registration for launches.
Right to amend or cancel
Emaar reserves the right at any time at its sole discretion and without any liability to modify, add, suspend, or cancel the Programme, or amend any of the terms and conditions of the Programme including changes to down payment requirements, resale restrictions, payment terms, or Programme benefits. Emaar may also withdraw or suspend a customer's enrollment in the Programme, and the ensuing privileges/benefits.
Does registration to the Programme and compliance with all conditions guarantee a property purchase?

Home allotments under the Programme are subject to demand and the number of units available at the time of launch.

How do I register for Preferred Access?

When online registration opens for a launch, customers will be prompted to select the “Emaar Preferred Access Programme” field during the process. Please note that online registration is applicable only during official launches. For investments not tied to a specific launch, customers are advised to contact an Emaar Sales Centre.

Is Preferred Access given as a one-time only opportunity or will this be on-going for all future launches?

The “Emaar Preferred Access” Programme is on-going and can be availed of by customers every time they register online.

04 — Your property

Your property

Home orientation, handover and what you may do with the property afterwards.

What is a Home Orientation?

A Home Orientation is an opportunity to visit your new home, accompanied by one of Emaar's Property Handover Executives. During this walkthrough, any issues that require attention will be documented in a Home Orientation Checklist. Emaar's Property Quality Assurance Department (PQA) will liaise with the Contractor to ensure all observations as recorded on the checklist (subject to acceptance by PQA and consultants) are rectified.

Can Emaar provide a visit visa for my Home Orientation or Handover?

No, Emaar does not provide visit visas for customers.

Can I authorize someone else to attend the Home Orientation on my behalf?

Yes, you may appoint a representative to attend the home orientation on your behalf. Please submit an authorization letter that includes the representative's full name and contact number, clearly stating your consent to conduct the orientation on your behalf. A copy of your passport is also required for signature verification.

Can I change my home orientation date?

Yes, you may reschedule your home orientation date once, provided the new date falls within the official handover period allocated for the project.

Can I go for a second home orientation to make sure that all snags are rectified?

Only one Home Orientation per unit is conducted, in accordance with the terms outlined in the Sales Purchase Agreement. However, should you find any pending snags after you take handover of the property, you can report them to Emaar's Property Quality Assurance (PQA) team by:

  • Calling the Emaar Contact Centre at 800-EMAAR (800 36227 / +971 4 366 1688)
  • Emailing pqa@emaar.ae
  • Visiting the Emaar Customer Centre at Emaar Square, Building 2
Can I make changes to my villa?

Yes, internal modifications may be permitted provided they do not impact the villa's structure or external façade. However, before making any alterations, you have to first obtain a No Objection Certificate from Emaar. Please note that all external changes are not allowed.

Can I rent out my property after handover?

Yes, once the property is handed over to you, you are free to lease it.

Will my villa look exactly like the one I saw at the Sales Centre?

Please note that show villas featured at our Sales Centres are designed with premium, luxury finishes, which may differ from the standard specifications of your purchased unit. If you wish to upgrade to luxury finishes, please inform the Sales office at the time of purchasing your property. Keep in mind that this will result in the price being adjusted accordingly.

What is the property handover process?

To complete the handover process and take possession of your property, you must submit the following documents:

Single ownership
Original Certificate of Completion of Payment; Copy of Application for Land Registration; Original DEWA Security Deposit Receipt; Original Passport or valid Government ID for identification.
Joint or multiple ownership, including spouses
Original Certificate of Completion of Payment; Copy of Application for Land Registration; Original DEWA Security Deposit Receipt; Original Power of Attorney or a Notarized Authorization Letter from all owners/spouses (if not all are present); Original Passport or a recognized Government photo ID for each owner. In cases of spousal joint ownership, a notarized letter is required if one party is absent during the handover.
Company ownership
Original Certificate of Completion of Payment; Copy of Land Registration Application; Original DEWA Security Deposit Receipt; Original Trade License; Original Notarized Letter of Authorization on company letterhead, signed by the authorized signatory; Copy of Passport of Authorized Signatory (for signature verification); Original Passport or Recognized Government-issued ID of the authorized representative.
Authorization on behalf of individual owners
Original Certificate of Completion of Payment; Copy of Land Registration Application; Original DEWA Security Deposit Receipt; Original Power of Attorney or Notarized Letter of Authorization from all property owners; Copy of Passport of All Owners; Original Passport or Recognized Government-issued ID of the authorized representative.
What will owners receive upon property handover?
Apartments
Keys to the unit; homeowner's manual; list of important contact numbers; car parking number; access cards or transponder (where applicable); P.O. Box keys (where applicable).
Villas
Keys to the villa; homeowner's manual; list of important contact numbers; car security sticker.

05 — Alterations and home improvements

Alterations and home improvements

What needs a No Objection Certificate from Emaar Community Management, and what does not.

I want to carry out some modification works to my property. Do I need permission?

Yes, any home modification or improvement requires a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from Emaar Community Management. Please refer to the Home Modification Guidelines to ensure your planned works comply with community standards. To apply for a NOC, log into your community portal and select ‘Home Modifications’ from the sidebar.

Do I need to apply for a NOC if I want to do landscaping in my garden?

Yes. Both soft and hard landscaping works require a NOC.

I want to build a pergola in my garden. Do I need to seek permission?

Yes. Installing a pergola requires a NOC. Please refer to the relevant conditions in the Home Modification Guidelines to ensure that it is in line with guidelines.

Can I renovate my kitchen and bathroom?

Yes. These are considered internal modifications and require a NOC.

Can I make changes to my balcony or terrace?

External modifications that affect the aesthetics of the villa are not permitted. Please consult the Home Modification Guidelines for acceptable modifications to balconies.

Can I increase the height of my boundary wall?

It is not permitted to increase the height of the boundary wall. For privacy reasons, it is recommended to plant trees or hedges and for other options, please refer to the Home Modification Guidelines.

Can I change the existing landscape in front of my villa in the common area?

No. Modifying the landscaping in common areas is not permitted, as these areas are maintained as part of the community.

I want to build a swimming pool. Do I need to seek permission?

Yes. Constructing a swimming pool requires a NOC. Any modifications to your villa or garden must be approved.

Can I repaint the exterior walls of my villa?

Yes. Please note that it is permitted to repaint the external walls of the villa, however a NOC is required to ensure that the colour theme and uniformity of the community is maintained.

Do I need a NOC for internal painting, A/C cleaning, or repairing damaged sanitary ware, fixtures and electrical accessories?

Works like interior painting and regular maintenance work do not require a NOC from Emaar. However, your contractor must obtain an entry permit to get access to the community and carry out maintenance works.

06 — Registration and transfers

Registration and transfers

Moving a property into another name, and registering it with the Dubai Land Department.

Why do I have to pay transfer fees to Emaar Properties upon transferring my property?

Emaar charges an admin fee for issuance of NOC for Transfer. This transfer is registered in Emaar's Property Register and subsequently to be completed at the Land Department. The fee is part of the administrative charges involved in completing the transaction.

What are the documents that are required for an NOC for Transfer?

For information on document requirements, kindly visit this link.

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How many people need to attend the transfer of my property?

The transfer needs to be attended by both the Transferor/s, Transferee/s. You may apply for the NOC for Transfer by visiting our Customer Care Centre at Emaar Square, B2, G Level or via E-services available on the Emaar App/website.

Will Emaar issue me a visa after I complete the purchase of my property?

No, Emaar is not allowed to sponsor any visas as per instruction from Dubai Immigration. Eligible customers can apply for an NOC from Emaar to Dubai Immigration for a multiple entry visit visa subject to terms and conditions.

When and where can I collect my NOC for Transfer from?

You will receive an automated notification once your NOC is ready. The NOC can be collected from Emaar's Customer Care office at Emaar Square, B2, G Level.

Can the NOC for transfer be collected by anyone?

The NOC can be collected only by the property owner/ legal power of attorney holder.

Which properties are eligible for registration of land?

All property types need to be registered/ pre-registered with the Dubai Land Department as per law.

Where can I submit my application for registration?

Please visit our Customer Care Centre at Emaar Square, B2, G Level or apply for the registration via E-services available on the Emaar App/ website.

Do I need an appointment, or is it a walk-in procedure?

Transactions are done either by walk-in or via E-services. Please note that we do not arrange appointments for carrying out transactions.

Can any owner from any project register their property?

Yes, all projects can be registered.

07 — Succession

Succession

What happens to an Emaar property when an owner or joint owner dies.

What happens if one of the joint property owners passes away? Should the contract with Emaar be updated?

In accordance with Article 11 of the UAE Civil Code, “The law of the state of which a person has the nationality shall apply to the civil status and competence of such person.” Based on this, Emaar has implemented a formal Transfer on Succession process for transferring property ownership to the next of kin in the event of the demise of an owner or joint owner. To initiate this process, beneficiaries must follow legal procedures and provide the necessary documentation in line with UAE law.

Is a will sufficient to transfer ownership after death?

A will alone is not sufficient to transfer property ownership. For ownership to be legally transferred, the will must be:

  • Confirmed by a Dubai court, or equivalent legal authority
  • Accompanied by an officially issued succession certificate
Can I add my children's names to the Sale Agreement to safeguard their rights?

Ownership rights in the UAE are governed by local laws. In the event of the owner's death, Sharia Law will apply to UAE-based properties, unless a court order is obtained through the Dubai Courts or equivalent legal body.

08 — Investor relations

Investor relations

Dividends, shares and the listed entity itself.

Who should I contact if I do not receive my dividend payment?

For all dividends since 2003, except 2006, contact Union National Bank's Capital Markets Services on +971 2 698 4430, +971 2 698 4675, +971 2 698 4163, +971 2 698 4603 or +971 2 698 4591.

For 2006 dividends, contact Mashreq Bank's Investment Services Help Desk on +971 4 363 2430.

For all other dividends, contact Emaar Investor Relations at Investor_Relations@emaar.ae. If your shares are deposited with a brokerage firm, please contact your broker directly with any questions regarding the dividend payment.

[Placeholder content] — the live page also names two individual bank officers and their personal email addresses. Those are not reproduced here: named individuals move on, and the answer should not send a shareholder to a dead mailbox. Emaar should confirm the current desk contacts before launch.

Who should I contact regarding a change of address, an account statement, or share transfers?

The Dubai Financial Market's Customer Service, on +971 4 305 5555 or at customerservice@dfm.ae.

When was Emaar Properties PJSC incorporated?

Emaar Properties was incorporated in 1997.

Where is Emaar Properties PJSC headquartered?

Emaar Properties PJSC is headquartered in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

When was Emaar Properties PJSC listed on the Dubai Financial Market?

Emaar Properties PJSC was listed on the Dubai Financial Market on March 26, 2000.

What is Emaar Properties PJSC's fiscal year?

Emaar Properties' fiscal year ends with the calendar year. Our quarters end on March 31, June 30, September 30, and December 31.

How can I buy shares in Emaar Properties PJSC?

Emaar Properties' shares can be bought or sold through a stock broker, or generally through a financial institution that provides brokerage services. A list of licensed brokers is available on the Dubai Financial Market's website.

Can foreigners buy shares in Emaar Properties PJSC?

Yes, foreigners can buy shares in Emaar Properties as long as the total foreign ownership of the stock does not exceed 49%. Daily foreign ownership levels can be checked on the Dubai Financial Market's website.

What is the foreign ownership limit on Emaar Properties PJSC stock?

49%.

Who are Emaar Properties PJSC's main shareholders?

The Investment Corporation of Dubai (ICD) owns approximately 30%, as at May 31, 2014.

[Placeholder content] — the shareholding figure on the live page is dated May 2014 and is over a decade old. It is reproduced exactly as published rather than updated, and needs verification before launch.

Does Emaar Properties PJSC have a corporate governance policy?

Yes. The corporate governance reports are published in the investor relations section.

What is Emaar Properties PJSC's ticker symbol?

EMAAR.

09 — Other questions

Other questions

Everything that does not sit under one of the headings above.

Can the purchaser alter the internal structure of his villa or unit?

The Purchaser may alter the internal structure of the villa only if the changes required are non-structural, and should seek permission from the Alterations Team of Emaar Properties prior to commencement of work.

What recourse can a landlord take against a delinquent tenant if the villa or apartment is not registered at the Land Department?

The Landlord can approach the Rent Committee and institute eviction proceedings. The Vendor cannot be part of such proceedings as it is not part of the agreement between the Landlord and tenant.

What is the definition of ‘single family’?

Husband, wife and kids.

In cases of default of payment, how many days are given to the customer to make payment of the outstanding instalment?

Emaar Properties follows the Sale Agreement strictly in cases of issuing Notices of Termination.

Why did we change the numbering of the properties? Would it have an impact on title registration?

Numbering does not impact the title registration. The re-numbering was done to break up the projects into smaller zones which would be convenient to service and is in accordance with the Municipality Rules & Regulations.

How do we notify Emaar of a change in communication details?

You may update your contact details online by logging on to Emaar Eservices or by calling Emaar Contact Centre on 800 Emaar (800 36227 / +971 4 366 1688). You may also visit Emaar Customer Centre or Sales Centre along with your original passport to inform us about the changes.

What is the difference between the principal and joint owners to the Sale Agreement?

There is no much difference between the Principal and Joint owner as both are considered to be equal shareholders of the property.

Does Emaar accept payments in digital currencies such as Bitcoin or Ethereum?

No, Emaar does not currently accept property purchases in digital currencies. Kindly contact our customer happiness centre for assistance.

10 — Fact sheets

Fact sheets.

Emaar’s own procedural fact sheets, as published. Each opens a PDF on emaar.com in a new tab.