How long does an Aldar resale take in Abu Dhabi?

From signed MOU to new title deed, the process usually completes in 10 to 15 working days when documents are complete.

Can expats finance an Aldar resale unit?

Yes. Banks offer up to 80 percent financing for units under AED 5 million and 70 percent above that threshold.

What is the total buyer cost on a AED 2 million Aldar resale?

Expect AED 80,000 in DMT transfer fees plus AED 540 admin, for a total of AED 80,540.

Is an Aldar NOC mandatory for resale?

Yes. DMT will not register the transfer without a valid Aldar NOC issued within the last 90 days.

Dubai Aldar Property Resale 2026: Abu Dhabi Process

Who Can Buy an Aldar Resale in 2026

Both UAE nationals and expats on valid residency visas can purchase Aldar properties on the secondary market. Off-plan units still require a minimum 20 percent payment before title transfer, while completed units allow full financing or cash purchase.

Step-by-Step Resale Process

The Abu Dhabi Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) manages every Aldar resale. Follow these steps in order.

Obtain the seller’s NOC. Request a No Objection Certificate from Aldar Properties. The fee is AED 5,000 and is valid for 90 days.
Agree on price and sign the MOU. Use a DMT-approved real estate broker. Pay a 10 percent deposit into the DMT escrow account.
Submit the transfer application. Both parties attend DMT or use its online portal. Required documents include passports, Emirates IDs, title deed, NOC, and sale contract.
Pay transfer fees. The buyer pays 4 percent of the sale price to DMT plus a fixed AED 540 administration fee. The seller pays 2 percent if the property was held less than two years.
Receive the new title deed. DMT issues the updated title within five working days once fees clear and all parties sign.

Additional Costs in 2026

Fee Type	Amount	Who Pays
DMT transfer fee	4 percent of sale price	Buyer
Aldar NOC	AED 5,000	Seller
Early-sale surcharge	2 percent of sale price	Seller (if held under 24 months)
Admin fee	AED 540	Buyer
Mortgage registration (if financed)	0.05 percent of loan amount	Buyer

Buyer Financing Rules

Banks registered with the Central Bank of the UAE accept Aldar resale units as collateral. Expats may borrow up to 80 percent of the property value for units valued under AED 5 million. Higher-value properties carry a 70 percent loan-to-value cap.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Signing a private sale contract without DMT escrow, which leaves the deposit unprotected.
Forgetting the two-year holding rule that triggers the extra 2 percent seller fee.
Submitting an expired Aldar NOC, which forces the seller to reapply and delays closing by up to three weeks.

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