Dubai Property Service Charges: A Guide for Buyers

When purchasing property in Dubai, beyond the sale price, homeowners must budget for monthly service charges. These recurring fees are crucial for maintaining the property and its shared facilities. They cover essential services such as cleaning, security, landscaping, waste disposal, repairs, and utilities, including DEWA.

Service charges in Dubai are calculated per square foot, with costs varying significantly. The Dubai Land Department (DLD) provides a Service Charge Index to help buyers understand approved fees, which can range from Dh3 to Dh30 or more per square foot. The exact amount depends on several factors, including the property type, the range of amenities offered, and the property management standards. Villas generally incur higher charges than apartments due to larger areas and gardens.

To determine the service charges for a specific property, homeowners can access the DLD Service Charge Index through its website or the Dubai REST app. The index requires details such as the certificate or title deed number, the year of issuance, and the property type. The system provides information about the property management company and a breakdown of the fees. Payments are managed through the Mollak service, ensuring fees are deposited into DLD-approved bank accounts.