Ask for the official project and developer names and the project number. Dubai Land Department’s Project Status Enquiry service, also available through Dubai REST, provides available project and escrow account information.

Next, request the unit layout, area, floor, orientation and delivery specifications. Compare the presentation with written documents and ask about payment dates, handover and cancellation terms. Images alone cannot show the whole picture.

Before making a financial commitment, verify the payment recipient and method and seek appropriate professional review of the documents where needed.

Official source: DLD Project Status Enquiry ↗

A ready property generally allows you to inspect its current condition and surroundings. Check occupancy, maintenance, service costs and whether the actual space matches the information provided.

For an off-plan property, comparisons begin with documentation, delivery specifications, construction schedules and payment milestones. Read the contract carefully for expected handover dates and possible changes rather than relying on visuals alone.

No single choice fits everyone. Write down when you need the property, your payment commitments and how important a physical inspection is to you. Discuss the options without assuming guaranteed returns or price growth.

Use one checklist for each property: asking price, documented area, permitted use, condition, view, parking, amenities and timing. Record when each detail was checked and who confirmed it.

Request a written breakdown of costs that may apply to your transaction, such as registration, brokerage, finance, maintenance and service charges. The relevant items depend on the property, agreement and parties involved.

Add everyday priorities such as travel times, the neighbourhood and access to facilities. Separate confirmed facts from promises and estimates, and gather missing answers before deciding.