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    Planning on buying a property in the UAE? 10 important things to know

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    12 seconds ago

    Buying a property is a big decision! This is your one-stop guide to navigating the property sale search in Dubai.
    Here, Farah Ali, real estate senior sales specialist at Espace uncovers everything you need to know –  from understanding your finances to choosing the perfect location and property type. Let’s go over all the legalities and buying process to ensure you have a smooth experience.

     What can you afford & the down payment required
    If like most people you require a mortgage to purchase your home, an experienced mortgage advisor can offer you so much at this stage. Homeownership in Dubai requires a down payment of 20% (minimum for an expat) for a property under the value of AED 5,000,000 and anything above AED 5,000,000 will require a down payment of 30% (minimum for an expat). It is important to note that the Central Bank has set a mortgage cap for first-time buyers, allowing them to borrow up to seven times their salary. Additionally, there are several upfront costs involved in purchasing a home, including the real estate agent fee, Dubai Land Department fee, and mortgage processing fees.
    You will be faced with many choices and the stage of your mortgage process and getting pre-approved. Should you choose a fixed or variable interest rate mortgage? How much can you borrow? How long will it take you to pay off the loan? Your independent broker is there to advise you on each of these issues.
    Choose a location wisely
    With your finances in place, it’s time to consider your search. How many bedrooms are you looking for, what size of property do you require and what communities are you looking to buy in. In the property world, it’s often said that your new home is the right combination of what you want, what you can afford and what is on the market. Whether you are looking for a detached villa with a garden and a pool or a skyline apartment, try to imagine living there. Is there a possibility your family needs will change in the coming years?

    Key location issues to consider:
    – Get to know your community– try and visit your chosen area at different times of the day and night. It’s also a good idea to visit at weekends when people are out and about.– Schools, hospitals, sports clubs and community amenities – make a note of how well-serviced your new area is– Are you in walking distance to the community pool, park of community centre?– Other local amenities – what are the shops, supermarkets, restaurants, parks in the area like?– Distance to and from work and family – how much time are you prepared to spend travelling to and from work every day.
    What to choose: Secondary Properties or Off-plan?
    Secondary properties provide immediate availability, established communities, and the opportunity to view the property before purchase. Conversely, buying off-plan offers the benefit of a phased payment plan, allowing buyers to make timely payments and maintain a healthy cash flow. However, a potential drawback is that the final product may not always align with the initial purchase agreement, with variations possible between signing the sales and purchase agreement and the actual handover.
    Do you want a standard or turn-key property?
    The prospect of renovating a house tends to divide opinion. For some, they want to control every element of the design/ layout, and everything will be just as you want. For others, enjoyment comes from the convenience and knowing your dream home is ready and waiting to be moved into, you can simply turn up with your removals van and move straight in.
    It is important to note that each developer has their own rules and regulations regarding extensions. You will need to obtain an NOC from the developer, as well as approval from Dubai Municipality. Some communities are very strict about certain extensions and modifications, while others are more lenient. Additionally, if you are planning to do extensions, make sure to find out the costs involved, as prices vary from developer to developer based on the added square meters.
    Do you need a vacant property, or do you have the option of viewing tenanted properties?
    The urgency of your move will significantly influence your property search. If you have time on your side and don’t need to move immediately, you can consider viewing tenanted properties. However, if you need to move in as soon as possible, it’s essential to inform your agent so they can show you properties that are either vacant or will be available vacant upon transfer. Many UAE residents are currently facing this decision as they opt for homeownership to avoid rising rental prices.
    Qualify your agent
    We always recommend conducting thorough research on your real estate agent. Arrange a meeting and treat it like a short interview: inquire about their past sales in your desired area, their opinions on current prices, and whether they anticipate any increases or decreases. Despite the Dubai Land Department (DLD) and leading UAE property portals launching impressive initiatives to eliminate fake listings, it’s essential to remain cautious—if an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is.

    Understanding the buying process
    Understand the next steps once you’ve made an offer; proceedings move swiftly in the UAE. Upon acceptance of your offer on a property, a contract can be drafted within a matter of hours. A common oversight among buyers is assuming that sellers will delay in responding to offers.
    The contract is drafted by conveyancing officers, not lawyers
    There’s a common misunderstanding among expats that lawyers draft property contracts, but in fact, conveyancers (often available in-house at most agencies) primarily oversee the purchase process.
    Market Conditions
    It’s important to thoroughly research and assess the market before buying a property. Consider all relevant factors: What are the average prices (AED/Sqft) and rental prices in the area, understand the last comparable sales to get an understanding of the price cycle in that community.
    Understanding Property Service Charges
    One of the expenses to consider is the service charge, covering the property’s maintenance and upkeep. The Dubai Land Department (DLD) offers prospective homeowners access to a Service Charge Index through their website or app.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Feature Image: Instagram @dubai_photoconcierge  More

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    Looking to buy a property in the UAE? 10 things to know

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    2 hours ago

    Buying a property is a big decision! This is your one-stop guide to navigating the property sale search in Dubai.
    Here, Farah Ali, real estate senior sales specialist at Espace uncovers everything you need to know –  from understanding your finances to choosing the perfect location and property type. Let’s go over all the legalities and buying process to ensure you have a smooth experience.

     What can you afford & the down payment required
    If like most people you require a mortgage to purchase your home, an experienced mortgage advisor can offer you so much at this stage. Homeownership in Dubai requires a down payment of 20% (minimum for an expat) for a property under the value of AED 5,000,000 and anything above AED 5,000,000 will require a down payment of 30% (minimum for an expat). It is important to note that the Central Bank has set a mortgage cap for first-time buyers, allowing them to borrow up to seven times their salary. Additionally, there are several upfront costs involved in purchasing a home, including the real estate agent fee, Dubai Land Department fee, and mortgage processing fees.
    You will be faced with many choices and the stage of your mortgage process and getting pre-approved. Should you choose a fixed or variable interest rate mortgage? How much can you borrow? How long will it take you to pay off the loan? Your independent broker is there to advise you on each of these issues.
    Choose a location wisely
    With your finances in place, it’s time to consider your search. How many bedrooms are you looking for, what size of property do you require and what communities are you looking to buy in. In the property world, it’s often said that your new home is the right combination of what you want, what you can afford and what is on the market. Whether you are looking for a detached villa with a garden and a pool or a skyline apartment, try to imagine living there. Is there a possibility your family needs will change in the coming years?

    Key location issues to consider:
    – Get to know your community– try and visit your chosen area at different times of the day and night. It’s also a good idea to visit at weekends when people are out and about.– Schools, hospitals, sports clubs and community amenities – make a note of how well-serviced your new area is– Are you in walking distance to the community pool, park of community centre?– Other local amenities – what are the shops, supermarkets, restaurants, parks in the area like?– Distance to and from work and family – how much time are you prepared to spend travelling to and from work every day.
    What to choose: Secondary Properties or Off-plan?
    Secondary properties provide immediate availability, established communities, and the opportunity to view the property before purchase. Conversely, buying off-plan offers the benefit of a phased payment plan, allowing buyers to make timely payments and maintain a healthy cash flow. However, a potential drawback is that the final product may not always align with the initial purchase agreement, with variations possible between signing the sales and purchase agreement and the actual handover.
    Do you want a standard or turn-key property?
    The prospect of renovating a house tends to divide opinion. For some, they want to control every element of the design/ layout, and everything will be just as you want. For others, enjoyment comes from the convenience and knowing your dream home is ready and waiting to be moved into, you can simply turn up with your removals van and move straight in.
    It is important to note that each developer has their own rules and regulations regarding extensions. You will need to obtain an NOC from the developer, as well as approval from Dubai Municipality. Some communities are very strict about certain extensions and modifications, while others are more lenient. Additionally, if you are planning to do extensions, make sure to find out the costs involved, as prices vary from developer to developer based on the added square meters.
    Do you need a vacant property, or do you have the option of viewing tenanted properties?
    The urgency of your move will significantly influence your property search. If you have time on your side and don’t need to move immediately, you can consider viewing tenanted properties. However, if you need to move in as soon as possible, it’s essential to inform your agent so they can show you properties that are either vacant or will be available vacant upon transfer. Many UAE residents are currently facing this decision as they opt for homeownership to avoid rising rental prices.
    Qualify your agent
    We always recommend conducting thorough research on your real estate agent. Arrange a meeting and treat it like a short interview: inquire about their past sales in your desired area, their opinions on current prices, and whether they anticipate any increases or decreases. Despite the Dubai Land Department (DLD) and leading UAE property portals launching impressive initiatives to eliminate fake listings, it’s essential to remain cautious—if an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is.

    Understanding the buying process
    Understand the next steps once you’ve made an offer; proceedings move swiftly in the UAE. Upon acceptance of your offer on a property, a contract can be drafted within a matter of hours. A common oversight among buyers is assuming that sellers will delay in responding to offers.
    The contract is drafted by conveyancing officers, not lawyers
    There’s a common misunderstanding among expats that lawyers draft property contracts, but in fact, conveyancers (often available in-house at most agencies) primarily oversee the purchase process.
    Market Conditions
    It’s important to thoroughly research and assess the market before buying a property. Consider all relevant factors: What are the average prices (AED/Sqft) and rental prices in the area, understand the last comparable sales to get an understanding of the price cycle in that community.
    Understanding Property Service Charges
    One of the expenses to consider is the service charge, covering the property’s maintenance and upkeep. The Dubai Land Department (DLD) offers prospective homeowners access to a Service Charge Index through their website or app.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Feature Image: Instagram @dubai_photoconcierge  More

  • in

    10 things to know before starting your property sale search in the UAE

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    3 hours ago

    Buying a property is a big decision! This is your one-stop guide to navigating the property sale search in Dubai.
    Here, Farah Ali, real estate senior sales specialist at Espace uncovers everything you need to know –  from understanding your finances to choosing the perfect location and property type. Let’s go over all the legalities and buying process to ensure you have a smooth experience.

     What can you afford & the down payment required
    If like most people you require a mortgage to purchase your home, an experienced mortgage advisor can offer you so much at this stage. Homeownership in Dubai requires a down payment of 20% (minimum for an expat) for a property under the value of AED 5,000,000 and anything above AED 5,000,000 will require a down payment of 30% (minimum for an expat). It is important to note that the Central Bank has set a mortgage cap for first-time buyers, allowing them to borrow up to seven times their salary. Additionally, there are several upfront costs involved in purchasing a home, including the real estate agent fee, Dubai Land Department fee, and mortgage processing fees.
    You will be faced with many choices and the stage of your mortgage process and getting pre-approved. Should you choose a fixed or variable interest rate mortgage? How much can you borrow? How long will it take you to pay off the loan? Your independent broker is there to advise you on each of these issues.
    Choose a location wisely
    With your finances in place, it’s time to consider your search. How many bedrooms are you looking for, what size of property do you require and what communities are you looking to buy in. In the property world, it’s often said that your new home is the right combination of what you want, what you can afford and what is on the market. Whether you are looking for a detached villa with a garden and a pool or a skyline apartment, try to imagine living there. Is there a possibility your family needs will change in the coming years?

    Key location issues to consider:
    – Get to know your community– try and visit your chosen area at different times of the day and night. It’s also a good idea to visit at weekends when people are out and about.– Schools, hospitals, sports clubs and community amenities – make a note of how well-serviced your new area is– Are you in walking distance to the community pool, park of community centre?– Other local amenities – what are the shops, supermarkets, restaurants, parks in the area like?– Distance to and from work and family – how much time are you prepared to spend travelling to and from work every day.
    What to choose: Secondary Properties or Off-plan?
    Secondary properties provide immediate availability, established communities, and the opportunity to view the property before purchase. Conversely, buying off-plan offers the benefit of a phased payment plan, allowing buyers to make timely payments and maintain a healthy cash flow. However, a potential drawback is that the final product may not always align with the initial purchase agreement, with variations possible between signing the sales and purchase agreement and the actual handover.
    Do you want a standard or turn-key property?
    The prospect of renovating a house tends to divide opinion. For some, they want to control every element of the design/ layout, and everything will be just as you want. For others, enjoyment comes from the convenience and knowing your dream home is ready and waiting to be moved into, you can simply turn up with your removals van and move straight in.
    It is important to note that each developer has their own rules and regulations regarding extensions. You will need to obtain an NOC from the developer, as well as approval from Dubai Municipality. Some communities are very strict about certain extensions and modifications, while others are more lenient. Additionally, if you are planning to do extensions, make sure to find out the costs involved, as prices vary from developer to developer based on the added square meters.
    Do you need a vacant property, or do you have the option of viewing tenanted properties?
    The urgency of your move will significantly influence your property search. If you have time on your side and don’t need to move immediately, you can consider viewing tenanted properties. However, if you need to move in as soon as possible, it’s essential to inform your agent so they can show you properties that are either vacant or will be available vacant upon transfer. Many UAE residents are currently facing this decision as they opt for homeownership to avoid rising rental prices.
    Qualify your agent
    We always recommend conducting thorough research on your real estate agent. Arrange a meeting and treat it like a short interview: inquire about their past sales in your desired area, their opinions on current prices, and whether they anticipate any increases or decreases. Despite the Dubai Land Department (DLD) and leading UAE property portals launching impressive initiatives to eliminate fake listings, it’s essential to remain cautious—if an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is.

    Understanding the buying process
    Understand the next steps once you’ve made an offer; proceedings move swiftly in the UAE. Upon acceptance of your offer on a property, a contract can be drafted within a matter of hours. A common oversight among buyers is assuming that sellers will delay in responding to offers.
    The contract is drafted by conveyancing officers, not lawyers
    There’s a common misunderstanding among expats that lawyers draft property contracts, but in fact, conveyancers (often available in-house at most agencies) primarily oversee the purchase process.
    Market Conditions
    It’s important to thoroughly research and assess the market before buying a property. Consider all relevant factors: What are the average prices (AED/Sqft) and rental prices in the area, understand the last comparable sales to get an understanding of the price cycle in that community.
    Understanding Property Service Charges
    One of the expenses to consider is the service charge, covering the property’s maintenance and upkeep. The Dubai Land Department (DLD) offers prospective homeowners access to a Service Charge Index through their website or app.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Feature Image: Instagram @dubai_photoconcierge  More

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    Dubai Mall announces grand expansion: Dhs 1.5 billion budget allocated

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    2 hours ago

    Dubai Mall, already a retail giant and major tourist attraction, is about to supersize its offerings.
    Emaar Properties, the mall’s owner, has unveiled a staggering AED 1.5 billion expansion plan that promises to add a whopping 240 new luxury stores and restaurants. This significant investment underscores Dubai’s unwavering commitment to innovation and its position as a premier global destination.
    The expansion comes on the heels of a record-breaking year for Dubai Mall. In 2023, it claimed the title of “most visited place on earth,” further solidifying its reputation as a retail mecca. This isn’t the mall’s first growth spurt – it’s seen several expansions over the years, including the impressive Zabeel extension in 2019 and the exciting addition of Chinatown in 2023.

    Currently boasting a total retail floor area exceeding 3.8 million square feet, Dubai Mall is already a shopper’s paradise. It houses more than 1,200 stores, offering everything from high-end fashion labels to everyday essentials. But that’s not all.This entertainment destination provides experiences beyond just shopping. Dive into the underwater world at the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, lace up your skates at the Olympic-sized ice rink, or catch a blockbuster at Reel Cinemas.Feeling fancy? Indulge in a world-class meal at one of over 200 restaurants or stroll through the luxurious Fashion Avenue.
    The expansion promises to elevate this experience even further. While details about the specific stores and restaurants are still under wraps, one thing’s for sure – it will cater to luxury shoppers and discerning palates. This aligns perfectly with Dubai’s vision of staying at the forefront of global trends and solidifying its position as a top destination for luxury tourism.

    Construction is already underway, with the contractor mobilizing on-site. Though an official completion date hasn’t been announced, anticipation is building for the grand unveiling. This expansion is just one piece of Dubai’s exciting development puzzle. Just a stone’s throw away in DIFC (Dubai International Financial Centre), a trio of multi-billion dirham projects are on the horizon, including the Four Seasons Private Residences, the opulent Janu Dubai by Aman Resorts hotel, and the futuristic Immersive Tower.
    Dubai continues to redefine the shopping and entertainment experience, and the Dubai Mall expansion is a testament to that relentless pursuit. With even more luxury brands, diverse dining options, and who knows what other surprises, this expansion promises to be a game-changer for Dubai’s retail landscape.

    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: WAM  More

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    Find out how much it costs to advertise on the world’s tallest building

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    2 hours ago

    If you want an advertisement on one of the most-loved landmarks in Dubai it comes at a cost.
    From baby shower announcements to brand advertisements, the world’s tallest tower has seen it all. Whether it’s a new collection launch or a message to shed light on any important cause, the Burj Khalifa acts as any XL advertising platform.

    Per Arabian Business, movie teasers or a message on the face of the Burj Khalifa start from a cool Dhs250,000 and that will only get you three minutes’ air time.
    For an extended two three-minute impression between 8pm and 10pm, the price is increased to Dhs500,000 and for five three-minute impressions any night between 7pm until midnight, the price is Dhs1 million.
    To add life to any display, music and sound can also complement the advertisement for an immersive experience, making it memorable for the audience to witness.
    In October 2022, a three-minute advertisement with the Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan was also on display, after an announcement about him being part of the Burjeel Holdings family was made.

    Happy to join the @BurjeelHoldings family as their compassion drives world-class healthcare in the UAE. @drshamsheervp #BurjeelHoldings pic.twitter.com/kPhfGLtnQt
    — Shah Rukh Khan (@iamsrk) September 30, 2022

    However, knowing the prices is only the first step of the process. An initial request with MullenLowe must be made before getting final approval from the owner of Burj Khalifa, Emaar.
    After approval, a detailed creative concept is finalized four weeks prior to the advertisement with upfront payment before it goes live.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram, Feature Image: Instagram @miro.px More

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    How much does it cost to advertise on the world’s tallest building?

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    1 hour ago

    If you want an advertisement on one of the most-loved landmarks in Dubai it comes at a cost.
    From baby shower announcements to brand advertisements, the world’s tallest tower has seen it all. Whether it’s a new collection launch or a message to shed light on any important cause, the Burj Khalifa acts as any XL advertising platform.

    Per Arabian Business, movie teasers or a message on the face of the Burj Khalifa start from a cool Dhs250,000 and that will only get you three minutes’ air time.
    For an extended two three-minute impression between 8pm and 10pm, the price is increased to Dhs500,000 and for five three-minute impressions any night between 7pm until midnight, the price is Dhs1 million.
    To add life to any display, music and sound can also complement the advertisement for an immersive experience, making it memorable for the audience to witness.
    Recently, a three-minute advertisement with the Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan was also on display, after an announcement about him being part of the Burjeel Holdings family was made.

    Happy to join the @BurjeelHoldings family as their compassion drives world-class healthcare in the UAE. @drshamsheervp #BurjeelHoldings pic.twitter.com/kPhfGLtnQt
    — Shah Rukh Khan (@iamsrk) September 30, 2022

    However, knowing the prices is only the first step of the process. An initial request with MullenLowe must be made before getting final approval from the owner of Burj Khalifa, Emaar.
    After approval, a detailed creative concept is finalized four weeks prior to the advertisement with upfront payment before it goes live.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram, Feature Image: Instagram @miro.px More