Off-plan real estate in Dubai has gained momentum among investors and homebuyers recently, especially after the Dubai real estate market grew and thrived significantly. As developments are initiated in various neighborhoods and communities in the emirate of Dubai, many seek to find the perfect investment opportunity or future home.
Driven Properties enjoys years of experience in the Dubai off-plan market and can help you find the ideal property that meets all your needs and specifications before it's even completed. Driven Properties can also help with all other aspects of purchasing Dubai property to ensure that everything goes as smoothly as possible.
What Are Off-Plan Properties?
An off-plan property is a building or a construction project that hasn’t been built or completed yet. To be able to visualize what the finished product will look like, developers use floor plans, computer-generated imagery (CGIs), and working drawings.
Types of Off-Plan Properties in Dubai
Those who are looking to buy off-plan property in Dubai have a wide variety of options to choose from. These include:
- Apartments
- Villas
- Townhouses
- Duplexes
- Commercial Spaces
Most off-plan developments in Dubai will feature a myriad of choices ranging from several bedrooms, property configuration, area, and more.
Benefits and Risk Considerations of Investing in Off Plan Properties
When deciding to buy off-plan properties, just like any other decision, one must weigh both the benefits and the risks, and then decide accordingly. We’ve compiled below a list of benefits that would make Dubai off-plan properties attractive to you, as well as a list of risks you should take into consideration.
Benefits
- Lower Price: Off-plan properties are usually sold at a discounted price compared to completed ones. This will create value for your purchase as time elapses, making this property worth more than you initially paid for it.
- Installments: Off-plan properties are sold based on a payment plan which includes installments. This will help you manage your finances better.
- Customization options: Off-plan real estate is brand-new. You do not need to conduct any maintenance work before moving, and you have the option to decorate it the way you want, meaning it requires less maintenance and can be decorated as you wish.
- Good payment options: Dubai offers flexible payment plans for investors and buyers, which can stretch the costs over time and make financial commitments relatively easier.
- Potential for High ROI: Off-plan investments in the UAE offer high returns because of high demand, strategic location, and increasing property values.
Risk considerations
- Inexperienced Developers: Look into the reputation of the developer before purchasing the off-plan property. An inexperienced developer might not deliver on time or might compromise on the quality or requirements.
- Limited Project Information: Make sure to request as many details as possible when you are looking to buy off-plan property in Dubai to have a clear idea of what to expect. These can include the master plan, the layout of properties, the availability of facilities and amenities, etc.
- Delayed Completion: Off-plan properties are usually being planned or built. Some are either completed late or ahead of the projected time. Such fluctuations in delivery date might affect your financial plans or expose you to legal liabilities.
- Market Volatility: Off-plan property owners are affected by real estate price fluctuation. While these factors are out of your control, we advise you to monitor the market and stay abreast of the changes in prices.
- Hidden Costs: When budgeting for the purchase of off-plan property, you should account for the hidden costs that might arise, including the DLD registration fee of 4%, the No Objection Certificate (NOC) fee (AED 5,000), the property transfer fee, and others.
Popular Locations for Off Plan Properties in Dubai in 2025
Dubai’s real estate landscape is brimming with options for you to choose from for both off-plan and ready-to-move properties. So whether you are looking for off-plan villas for sale in Dubai, off-plan apartments in Dubai, or any other type of property, below are the major locations where you can start your search.
Location: Dubailand, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road
Features: Freehold mixed-use development, featuring residential complexes, commercial towers, and retail real estate.
Location: Dubai Creek, Ras Al Khor Road (E44) and Nad Al Hamar Road (D62)
Features: Sustainable and self-contained mega-city offering residences and commercial buildings.
Location: The center of the city, Sheikh Zayed Road (E11)
Features: A mixed-use development offering high-rise buildings, penthouses, villas, commercial buildings, and upscale hotels.
Location: Near the Dubai Canal, Sheikh Zayed Road, and Al Khail Road
Features: Mixed-use district offering residential and commercial skyscrapers.
Location: Off the coastline between Deira and Bur Dubai.
Features: Mixed-use development offering waterfront residences, hotels, restaurants, and retail outlets.
Location: Dubai South, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311) and Emirates Road (E611)
Features: Master development by Emaar Properties has around 10 residential complexes featuring a mix of apartments, villas, and townhomes.
Location: Near Al Barsha South, Al Khail Road (E44)
Features: A gated neighborhood offering a mix of luxury apartments, villas, and townhouses.
Location: Near Dubai Marina, Al Khail Road, and Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road
Features: Freehold and family-friendly master community offering a mix of apartments, villas, and townhouses.
Popular Off Plan Projects in Dubai in 2025
Fairmont Residences Solara Tower
Solara Tower is developed by SOL Properties Development and bears the brand of Fairmont Hotels. It comprises 55 floors and offers 246 residences ranging from 1 to 5-bedroom layouts, as well as exclusive duplex penthouses.
Payment plan: 60/40
Helvetia Residences
Located in Jumeirah Village Circle, Helvetia Residences are developed by DHG Properties. This residential and luxurious development offers premium studios, and 1, 2, and 3-bedroom apartments.
Payment plan: 50/50
Rixos Financial Center Road Dubai Residences
Rixos Financial Center Road Dubai Residences are developed by East and West Properties. This project offers a wide selection of 1, 2, 3, and 4 bedroom apartments, and luxurious 4 and 5-bedroom duplex penthouses.
Payment plan: 60/40
St. Regis Residences Financial Center Road Dubai
The St. Regis Residences is developed by Adventz Group and East&West International Group jointly with the global St. Regis hotel chain. This 60-story tower offers exclusive apartments and penthouses with 1, 2, 4, and 5 bedrooms.
Payment plan: 20/80
MAG 777
MAG 777 is developed by MAG Property Development. This 22-floor residential tower encompassed 252 units, which include studio, 1-bedroom, and 2-bedroom apartments.
Payment plan: 50/50
Damac Islands
Damac Islands are developed by Damac Properties in Dubailand. This tropical-inspired and resort-style project offers 4, 5, 6, and 7-bedroom villas and townhouses.
Payment plan: 75/25
Eden House, Dubai Hills
Eden House, Dubai Hills is developed by H&H Development and designed by Hopkins Architects. This luxurious residential project offers 32 villas with 5 to 6-bedroom configurations.
Payment plan: 50/50
Begin your investment journey with Driven Properties
If you are looking to invest in Dubai real estate, off-plan properties are a great option. Driven Properties has amassed years of experience and employs some of Dubai’s best RERA-certified real estate agents. We can help you start your investment journey by finding the ideal properties that suit your needs and requirements, and then guide you through the entire purchase process.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is it cheaper to buy off-plan properties?
Off-plan properties are characterized by lower initial purchase prices when compared to completed real estate. This ensures that developers generate early interest and secure sales while investors make significant savings and potentially grow their capital.
2. What should I know before buying an off-plan property?
Before you buy an off-plan property it is good to know the total price of the real estate and the additional costs, the payment plan, the initial down payment requirements, the expected completion date, and the features of the house and the finishes.
3. Where are the best locations to buy off-plan properties in Dubai?
The best locations in Dubai to buy off-plan properties include Arjan, Dubai Creek Harbour, Downtown Dubai, Business Bay, Rashid Yachts & Marina, Emaar South, Dubai Hills, and Jumeirah Village Circle.
4. What kind of off-plan projects are available in Dubai?
Off-plan projects in Dubai include a variety of real estate options, which include studios, various size apartments, townhouses, penthouses, villas,, and much more.
5. Can foreigners buy or own off-plan properties in Dubai?
There are certain areas in Dubai designated as freehold. These areas allow 100% foreign ownership. These include:
- Jumeirah Lake Towers (JLT)
- Business Bay
- Arjan
- Arabian Ranches
- The Springs
- The Meadows
- Jumeirah Park
- DAMAC Hills
- Palm Jumeirah
- Dubai Hills Estate
- Al Furjan
- Dubai Silicon Oasis
- Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC)
6. Can you sell an off-plan property before it is completed?
Yes, you can sell an off-plan property before it is completed. However, you should check with the developer if certain restrictions apply.
7. What is the process for selling an off-plan property?
To resell an off-plan property in Dubai, you first must ensure that you have paid the required minimum to the developer, then find a buyer and agree with them on the terms. You must then obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) and complete the transaction at the Dubai Land Department.
8. What is the minimum investment needed for off-plan projects in Dubai?
The minimum amount you would need to start real estate investment in Dubai is around AED 400,000 for studio apartments or off-plan properties in affordable regions in Dubai.
