
Selling a mortgaged property in Dubai might appear challenging, but it’s actually a common and straightforward process, particularly in regulated property markets like Dubai. A mortgaged property is one bought using a bank loan, where the lender retains an interest until the debt is cleared. A common question is whether you can sell the property before the loan is cleared, and the answer is yes. Once you have the proper understanding, the process becomes seamless. Keep reading the guide to learn how to sell a mortgaged property.
What is a Mortgaged Property?
A mortgaged property is real estate secured by a loan, meaning the buyer still owes money to the bank. The mortgage must be cleared before selling the property in Dubai. The property serves as collateral for the loan. Simply put, the bank has a claim on the property until full repayment is made. The remaining amount you owe is considered an outstanding loan balance that decreases over time as you make payments. In the event of a sale, the money from the sale is used to settle the remaining mortgage before transferring ownership.

Step-by-Step Procedure of Selling a Mortgaged Property in Dubai
Here’s the step-by-step procedure for selling a mortgaged property in Dubai:
Step 1: Find a Buyer
List your property on real estate websites or contact a professional RERA-certified real estate agent. They can help you find the most suitable buyers. Disclose the mortgage details to the buyer during discussions to ensure transparency.
Step 2: Review Your Mortgage Agreement
Firstly, thoroughly review your mortgage agreement to understand the terms and conditions related to the property sale because some banks charge a penalty for early repayment. So, it is essential to understand these conditions in advance.
Step 3: Obtain a Property Valuation
It is essential to determine the current market value of your property before proceeding. You can hire a professional valuer or consult an experienced real estate agent like Kelt and Co Realty for property valuation. It provides you with a clear idea of the right selling price.
Step 4: Inform Your Bank
Notify your bank of your intention to sell the property. Request a liability letter from the bank, showing the outstanding balance on the property. The bank may also help you through the process of selling a mortgaged property in Dubai.
Step 5: Negotiate and Finalize Terms
Negotiate the price and conditions of the sale with the potential buyer. It is important to let them know the property is mortgaged to avoid misunderstandings.

Step 6: Secure a No-Objection Certificate from the Bank
The buyer needs a No-Objection Certificate from the seller’s bank. It confirms that the bank has no objection to the sale and outlines the outstanding balance. The buyer’s bank may request NOC during the transaction.
Step 7: Sign Memorandum of Understanding
After negotiating the deal, sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the buyer. This agreement specifies the terms of the sale, such as the price, payment structure, and transfer date. It acts as a legally binding agreement until completion of the sale.
Step 8: Block the Property Under Buyer’s Name
Before the buyer settles the seller’s mortgage, a process called property blocking takes place to safeguard the buyer. All involved parties must visit the Dubai Land Department (DLD) registration trustee office to block the property under the buyer’s name. The process ensures the buyer can safely clear the mortgage and prevents the seller from selling the property to another buyer. The following documents will be required for blocking property in Dubai:
- Liability letter from the seller’s bank
- Form F or Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)
- NOC from the developer
- Copy of the property title deed
- Cheque payable to the bank (for the liability amount stated in the purchase price)
- Cheque payable to the seller (for the remaining balance of the purchase price)
- Cheque payable to the Dubai Land Department (4% of the property price)
- Original passports, visas, and Emirates IDs of the buyer and the seller
The fee for blocking a mortgaged property in Dubai is outlined below:
- AED 1,000 for Property Blocking
- AED 10 Knowledge Fees
- AED 10 Innovation Fees
- AED 500 Trustee Registration Fee
Step 9: Mortgage Settlement by Buyer
The buyer, or their bank, will settle your remaining mortgage, usually through a manager’s cheque. Upon full repayment, the lender releases the title deed and issues a clearance letter or property mortgage release letter.
Step 10: Property Transfer at DLD
After mortgage clearance, the property transfer takes place at the Dubai Land Department (DLD). Both the buyer and the seller must be present with the necessary documents, such as the Emirates ID, NOC, and the title deed. The DLD then issues a new title deed in the buyer’s name.

Required Documents
The following documents will be required for selling a mortgaged property in Dubai:
- Copies of the passports of both the buyer and the seller
- Emirates ID (where applicable)
- Property title deed
- Mortgage clearance letter issued by the bank
- No Objection Certificate from the developer and the bank
- Signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)
- Manager’s cheque for paymentÂ
Cost of Selling a Mortgaged Property in Dubai
Here’s the breakdown of costs for selling a mortgaged property in Dubai:
| Service | Fee in AED |
| Registration | AED 1,000 |
| Knowledge Fee | AED 10 |
| Innovation Fee | AED 525 |
| Mortgage Release Procedure | AED 1,290 |
| Registrar’s Fee for Releasing Mortgage | AED 315 |
| Title Deed Issuance | AED 250 |
| Agent’s Commission | 2% of the sale price |
| NOC Fee | Between AED 500 and AED 5,000 |
| For Each Drawing | AED 10 |
Selling Off-Plan Mortgaged Properties in Dubai
The process is the same for off-plan properties, but you need to verify that the developer allows the sale of the property. Some developers do not allow you to sell an off-plan unit until a certain percentage of the payment plan is completed. Additionally, you may be required to provide an NOC from the developer and the Dubai Land Department when selling a mortgaged property in Dubai that is off-plan.Â
Methods for Completing the Sale
- Cash: The buyer can pay the full price in cash directly to the seller or via bank settlement clearance. The seller can pay off the loan through the proceeds and keep the remaining.Â
- Setting a New Mortgage: Buyer takes a fresh mortgage from the bank to complete the purchase. Once approved, the bank clears the seller’s existing mortgage and provides the remaining funds to the seller. The buyer continues with repayment under the agreed terms.
- Transferring Mortgage: The seller’s mortgage can be transferred to the buyer with bank approval. The buyer continues the existing mortgage with the same terms. The seller receives the agreed sale amount.Â
Hassle-Free Mortgage Property Sale
At Kelt and Co Realty, we know that selling a mortgaged property in Dubai may appear complex, but it can be smooth with the right approach. With professional support and guidance, it becomes efficient and stress-free. We provide end-to-end support from start to finish, ensuring everything is carefully managed. Consulting experts can help you make informed decisions with confidence. Reach out to us today for tailored support.
FAQs
Can I sell a mortgaged property in Dubai?
Yes, you can sell a mortgaged property in Dubai. However, the remaining mortgage must be settled by the buyer or from the sale proceeds before the transfer of ownership.
Do I need to pay off my mortgage before selling?
It is not required upfront. The buyer or their bank clears the outstanding mortgage during the transaction process.
Can I sell an off-plan mortgaged property?
Yes, but only if the developer permits it and the required payment milestones are completed.
How to calculate mortgage payoff when selling a property in Dubai?
You can contact the bank and request the mortgage liability letter, showing the outstanding amount, accrued interest, early repayment penalty, and any applicable charges.Â


