What to Expect During a Property Handover Process in Dubai
Buying a property in Dubai is a big moment whether it’s your very first home or a new addition to your investment portfolio. But once construction is complete and you get that exciting call from the developer, there’s one final step before you can pop the champagne: the property handover.
The property handover phase is a critical step where the keys change hands, but so does a whole lot of responsibility. This guide will walk you through what actually happens during the property handover in Dubai, what to look out for and how to make sure you walk away with peace of mind and no nasty surprises.
What Is a Property Handover?
A property handover is when your developer officially transfers the completed unit to you. You’ve made your payments, the construction’s wrapped up and the necessary approvals have come through. This is the point where it all becomes real.
Whether you’ve bought a ready property or an off-plan unit in Dubai, the handover is your chance to inspect the property, raise any red flags and make sure what you’re getting matches what you signed up for.
Step-by-Step: The Handover Process in Dubai
Here’s how things usually unfold:
1. You’ll Get Notified by the Developer
Once the building gets its final nod from authorities like Dubai Municipality, the developer will send you a notification saying your unit is ready.
They’ll usually request:
- Final payment (if applicable)
- Proof that you’ve cleared all service charges
- Documents like your Emirates ID, passport copy and signed sale agreement
2. Schedule an Inspection Appointment
Next, you’ll be invited to book a time to inspect your unit. This isn’t just a quick walkthrough, it’s your opportunity to go through every detail and flag anything that needs fixing.
Dubai Property Handover Checklist: What Should You Look For?
Here’s a handy checklist for your inspection day:
- Walls, floors, and ceilings (check for cracks or poor finishing)
- Doors and windows (do they open and lock properly?)
- Plumbing (test the taps, toilets, drainage)
- Electricity (check all lights, switches, sockets)
- AC system (switch it on and make sure it works)
- Kitchen fittings and appliances (if included)
- Paint quality and cleanliness
- Balcony railings, terraces and shared corridors
This process is often called property snagging in Dubai. You can do it yourself but if you’d rather not miss a thing, it’s worth hiring a professional snagging company in Dubai.
3. Raise Snags and Wait for Fixes
Found a few things that aren’t quite right? Don’t worry, it’s normal. Developers expect snagging issues and should resolve them before final handover.
Pro tip: List all issues clearly and get them acknowledged either in writing or through the developer’s CRM platform.
Depending on the number of snags, it could take a few days to a couple of weeks to fix.
4. Sign the Handover Documents
Once you’re happy with the condition of the unit, it’s time to sign:
- Handover acceptance form
- Final delivery document
- Utility transfer forms (DEWA or district cooling)
Make sure you receive:
- Keys and access cards
- DEWA premises number
- Parking allocations
- Warranty documents for included appliances
5. Register the Property with Dubai Land Department
Last but not least, head to the Dubai Land Department (DLD) to register your property and get your Title Deed. This is the official proof that the property is legally yours.
For off-plan buyers, this is the moment your investment becomes a real, registered asset.
Tips to Keep the Handover Smooth and Stress-Free
Don’t rush it. Take your time during the inspection. Even small defects can become annoying later.
- Bring a checklist or a pro, especially if you’re new to this.
- Ask questions. If something doesn’t make sense, speak up.
- Document everything. Keep records of payments, emails, and snagging reports.
The property handover process is more than just a handover of keys, it’s the final confirmation that your home or investment is ready and yours.
If you’re not sure where to start or just want someone to guide you through the process, Strada is here to help. Contact us today and we’ve got your back every step of the way.
