Verify the parties first
Confirm the broker and agent through Dubai Land Department channels, match the developer or seller to the transaction documents and ensure advertising or project information relates to the exact property.
Confirm the correct payment route
For off-plan property, independently confirm the registered project and escrow route. For ready property, follow the documented trustee and transfer process. Do not substitute a personal or unrelated company account because a deadline is approaching.
Treat changed instructions as a stop signal
A last-minute account change, unusual urgency, secrecy request or mismatch between the beneficiary and contract should stop the transfer. Reconfirm through an independently sourced telephone number or official portal.
Preserve the evidence
Keep contracts, payment schedules, invoices, account-verification records, receipts and registration confirmations. Ask the bank about recall and fraud-reporting procedures before a large international transfer.
Questions international buyers ask
Is a Dubai property reservation refundable?
It depends on the signed reservation terms and circumstances. Obtain the refund and cancellation language in writing before paying.
Should I send a deposit to an agent's personal account?
Do not do so merely because an agent requests it. Verify the lawful recipient and payment route for the exact transaction.
Does escrow remove every risk?
No. Escrow is an important protection for registered off-plan projects, but buyers must still verify the project, contract, unit and account.
Official sources
Educational information only. Rules, fees, lending criteria and tax treatment can change. Obtain property-specific legal, tax and financing advice.