Property gifting is becoming an increasingly common topic among many property owners in Dubai, but it still raises many questions. Is it possible? How does it work in practice? What fees are involved, and who is eligible for them? Whether you’re planning to transfer a property to your children as part of future planning, gift your spouse a home as a meaningful milestone, or support your parents with long-term security, it’s crucial to understand the legal and financial framework behind property gifting in the UAE.
In this guide, we break down everything you need to know about gifting property in Dubai – from eligibility criteria and required documents, to the step-by-step transfer process and the associated costs – so you can make confident, informed decisions.
What is Property Gifting?
Property gifting is officially known as "Hiba" in Arabic. This legal process allows property owners to transfer full or partial ownership of real estate to eligible recipients without a traditional sale transaction. Unlike conventional property sales, gifting follows specific regulations designed to facilitate transfers between close family members while maintaining transparency and ensuring legal compliance.
Who Can Receive a Property Gift?
In Dubai, you can gift property exclusively to first-degree relatives, which includes:
Parents (mother and father)
Children (sons and daughters)
Spouse (husband or wife)
Companies (under specific conditions)
It's important to note that siblings, cousins, aunts, uncles, and other extended family members do not qualify for property gifting under current regulations. If you wish to transfer property to these individuals, a standard sale transaction would be required.
Essential Documents Required
Preparing the correct documentation is crucial for a smooth transfer process. Here's what you'll need:
For All Applicants:
Original property title deed
No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the developer (for freehold areas, can be obtained via the Dubai REST App)
Valid Emirates ID for identity verification, or a passport copy for both donor and donee
Power of Attorney for appointing a representative to handle the process.
Proof of Relationship:
For spouses: Marriage certificate, fully translated into Arabic and attested by the UAE embassy in the issuing country and that country's Ministry of Foreign Affairs
For children: Birth certificate, similarly translated and attested, plus proof of paternity from your embassy in the UAE
For UAE citizens: A marriage contract or a family book serves as proof
For Company Transfers:
Companies not previously registered with the Dubai Land Department must complete a company registration procedure before proceeding with the gift transfer.
The Property Gifting Process: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Prepare Your Documentation
Ensure the property is fully registered and you have the original title deed.
Collect all required personal and property documents.
Make sure relationship certificates (marriage or birth certificates) are translated into Arabic and properly attested.
For properties under construction, obtain the NOC from the developer via the Dubai REST App.
Step 2: Property Valuation
For land plots, submit a property valuation request at one of the Real Estate Trustee Centers before applying for registration.
For apartments and villas, use the smart valuation services.
Keep the valuation report handy, as it will be required during the transfer process.
Step 3: Draft the Gift Deed
Prepare a formal gift deed
Clearly state that the property is being transferred as a gift (without sale)
Include full details of the donor, recipient, and the property
Have the deed reviewed and drafted by a qualified legal professional to avoid errors
Step 4: Visit Real Estate Trustee Center
Visit your nearest Real Estate Trustee Center with all original documents and copies.
Submit your application for property gifting along with the gift deed and valuation.
Allow the representative to review your file and confirm that all requirements are met.
Step 5: Fees Payment
The donor pays the property transfer fees as per DLD regulations.
The recipient pays fees related to issuing the new title deed and any minor administrative charges.
Keep all payment receipts as proof of transaction.
Step 6: Registration and Completion
The Dubai Land Department reviews your application and valuation.
Once approved, the property gifting transaction is registered in the DLD system.
A new title deed is issued in the recipient’s name.
Both parties receive confirmation that the transfer has been completed.
Processing Time: When all documents are in order and approved, the actual center visit takes approximately 24 minutes. However, ensure documentation is prepared beforehand to avoid delays.
Cost Breakdown
Understanding the financial commitment helps you plan effectively:
Main Transfer Fee:
0.125% of the property's valuation
Minimum fee: AED 2,000
Additional Government Fees:
AED 250 for Title Deed Certificate issuance
AED 225 for Unified Map (properties under Dubai Municipality)
AED 100 for maps (lands not under the Dubai Municipality)
AED 2,000 + VAT for properties valued below AED 2,000,000
Important Restrictions and Considerations
Off-Plan Properties: You cannot gift off-plan properties. The construction must be fully completed, and the property must have a registered title deed before gifting is permitted.
Recipient Acceptance: The gift transfer only becomes final when the recipient formally accepts it.
Company Registration: In case of gifting to a company that isn't registered with the DLD, registration must occur first, adding an extra step to your timeline.
Non-Eligible Recipients:
Tips for a Smooth Transfer
Start early with attestations: The translation and attestation of documents can take time, especially if working with embassies abroad. Begin this process well in advance.
Verify your NOC: Contact your developer early to ensure they can provide the electronic NOC through the Dubai REST App.
Consider professional assistance: While the process is straightforward, engaging a real estate professional or legal advisor can help navigate any complexities, particularly for high-value properties or company transfers.
Double-check eligibility: Confirm that your intended recipient qualifies as a first-degree relative to avoid any issues at the trustee center.
Conclusion
Gifting property in Dubai offers a valuable way to transfer wealth and secure your family's future while benefiting from reduced transfer fees compared to traditional sales. By understanding the requirements, preparing thorough documentation, and following the established process, you can complete the transfer efficiently and legally.
Considering a Binghatti home? Reach out to us at +97180015 and let our expert consultants support you throughout your purchase journey.
Frequently AskedQuestions
How much does it cost to gift a property in Dubai?
To gift a property in Dubai, there is a governmental fee of 0.125% of the property value that has to be paid with a minimum of AED 2,000, plus other administrative fees, including title deed issuance fee (AED 250), and map fees (AED 100-225), which may vary depending on the property’s location and type.
What happens if you gift a property to a family member?
When you gift a property to a family member in Dubai, the transaction is treated as a Hiba (gift) rather than a standard sale or transfer. This means it is registered as a property gift between first-degree relatives, and not a commercial deal. As a result, you benefit from significantly reduced transfer fees compared to a normal property transfer.
Can you avoid stamp duty by gifting a property?
No, you cannot completely avoid government transfer fees by gifting a property in the UAE. However, when the transfer is registered as a Hiba (gift) between eligible family members, the transaction benefits from reduced fees compared to a standard sale.
Can a person gift property to an individual?
Yes, a person can gift a property, but only to first-degree relatives (such as parents, children, or spouse) for it to be registered as a Hiba and qualify for the reduced transfer fees. Gifting to non–first-degree relatives or unrelated individuals would generally be treated as a regular property transfer and charged standard transfer fees.
