When buying a property in Dubai, one of the most crucial steps in the process is signing the Sales Purchase Agreement (SPA). This legally binding document outlines the terms and conditions of the property transaction between the buyer and the seller (often a developer).
For many investors and homebuyers, especially those new to Dubai’s real estate landscape, the SPA can seem overwhelming. However, understanding what to look for before signing it can protect you from future disputes, delays, or financial loss.
Here’s your detailed checklist of everything you should verify before signing a SPA in Dubai:
Why it matters: RERA-approved projects follow strict regulations ensuring your money is protected via escrow, and that the developer is held accountable for construction progress.
Why it matters: Many buyers assume the advertised unit is what they’ll receive. The SPA must match the promised details precisely, or else you could be handed a smaller or less desirable unit.
Why it matters: Knowing the exact financial commitment upfront helps you avoid surprise charges later on.
Why it matters: Many developers offer flexible payment plans—especially for off-plan properties—but these must be detailed in the SPA. Missing a payment due to unclear terms can lead to cancellation and penalties.
Why it matters: Developers can delay projects, but a smart SPA includes protective clauses that penalize late handovers or allow buyers to cancel with a refund.
Why it matters: Many buyers assume they’ll receive a perfect unit. But if any faults arise, your SPA should clearly define who fixes what—and within what timeframe.
Why it matters: SPAs heavily protect developers unless you ensure clear refund policies and buyer rights are defined.
Dubai mandates that off-plan payments go through an RERA-approved escrow account, not the developer directly. Ensure:
Why it matters: This is your financial safety net. It ensures that if the project stalls or the developer defaults, your money is safe.
Why it matters: If things go wrong, you want a clear legal route that favors fast resolution without endless legal complications.
It is strongly recommended to have your SPA reviewed by:
Why it matters: An expert can spot loopholes, missing clauses, and one-sided terms you might overlook.
Remember: If it’s not written in the SPA, it doesn’t count—no matter what the agent or developer says.
Signing a Sales Purchase Agreement is a milestone—but it’s also the last line of protection before you're legally and financially locked into a deal.
Whether you're buying an off-plan unit in Dubai South or a ready apartment in Marina, the SPA sets the rules for:
Don’t rush it. Be informed. And always ask for legal review before signing.
At DSX Properties, we guide you through every legal and investment step. From selecting the right project to ensuring your SPA is investor-safe, we protect your interests from start to finish.
Contact us now to schedule a free consultation with our experts.