Checking a Dubai Developer Before You Reserve: A Due-Diligence List for South African Buyers
Before reserving off-plan in Dubai from South Africa, verify the developer, project, escrow, agent and contract. A practical list.
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A due-diligence list for South African buyers: verify the developer, project, escrow, agent and contract before you reserve in Dubai.
Dubai Property for South African Investors · Due Diligence Checking a Dubai Developer Before You Reserve: A Due-Diligence List for South African Buyers Buying off-plan from South Africa means trusting a developer you cannot visit. A few checks, done before you pay a reservation, tell you a lot. This Banke South Africa guide gives a practical list of what to verify, who can confirm it, and what to ask for in writing. The Short Answer Before you reserve, confirm that the developer is registered, that the project is registered and has an escrow account, that the seller is authorised to market it, and that the contract says in writing what you will receive and when. Verify with the Dubai authorities, not only with the sales team. 1. Is the Developer Registered? Ask for the developer's trade licence and registration details. Cross-check them with the Dubai Land Department or RERA. Check the developer's name on the contract matches the registered name. 2. Is the Project Registered, With Escrow? Off-plan projects should be registered and buyer instalments paid into a project escrow account. Ask for the account details in writing and confirm them before you transfer money. Do not pay into any other account. 3. Is the Agent Authorised? Real estate brokers in Dubai are registered, and advertisements carry a permit number. We explain how to check these in our guide to Trakheesi permits and verifying a Dubai advert . 4. Track Record Which projects has the developer completed, and when were they due versus delivered? Visit or ask someone to visit a completed project and speak to residents. Search for disputes or complaints, and read them critically. 5. The Contract Unit number, size and specification. Payment schedule and where each payment goes. Handover date and what happens if it is missed. Cancellation and refund terms. Service charge estimate, stated as an estimate. 6. Your Side of the Money Moving funds out of South Africa has its own rules and paperwork. Start that process early and keep records. Read moving money from South Africa to buy Dubai property , and take tax advice for your own situation. Red Flags Pressure to pay today to "lock the price". Requests to pay a personal account. Guaranteed returns. Refusal to share documents before payment. Talk to Banke South Africa To discuss a project, contact the Banke South Africa team . Rules, fees and procedures change. Confirm the current position with the relevant authority or a qualified professional before you commit money. This is general information, not legal, tax or financial advice.
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