How the Handover Process Works

The handover process in Dubai follows a structured sequence defined by both developer practice and legal requirements.

  • Notification: The developer notifies the buyer that the unit is ready, typically via email.
  • Financial settlement: Handover will not be scheduled until all outstanding payments are fully settled, including the final installment.
  • Developer portal: The buyer verifies payments and documents and schedules snagging (inspection) through the developer’s online portal.
  • Snagging (inspection): Around 1–2 weeks before handover, the owner or a representative inspects the apartment and records defects. Developers usually allow up to two weeks to rectify issues.
  • Representative: A representative may be appointed. In some cases, a signed authorization letter is sufficient; in others, a notarized Power of Attorney (POA) is required.
  • Handover event: Many developers organize a formal handover — keys, access cards, welcome materials, and an official acceptance moment.

Final Steps After Handover

  • Activation of DEWA (water and electricity)
  • Ejari registration for long-term rental
  • Or launch of professional property management (short-term or long-term)

Buyer’s Rights

⚖️ During and after handover, the buyer has the right to:

  • Inspect the property and prepare a formal snag list
  • Require defect rectification before handover or within warranty periods
  • Receive full documentation, including:
  • Completion Certificate
  • SPA (Sales and Purchase Agreement, typically signed during construction)
  • Payment confirmations
  • NOC
  • Title Deed (issued once construction is completed and all payments are settled)

Warranty periods:

  • 1 year — engineering systems and finishes
  • 10 years — structural elements

The buyer may also claim compensation for delays or contractual breaches, provided there is documented evidence.

Buyer’s Obligations

  • 📌 Make all payments and applicable fees on time
  • Carefully review SPA terms, including warranties, deadlines, and liability clauses
  • Sign the handover protocol only after all defects are recorded

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Developer’s Legal Liability

📜 Under Law No. 6 of 2019 (Dubai):

  • 10 years — liability for structural defects
  • 1 year — liability for engineering systems

Under the UAE Civil Code (No. 5 of 1985):

  • The developer must deliver the property in proper condition
  • Any contractual limitation of liability for structural defects is legally invalid

Practical Checklist

  • ✅ Verify that all payments are completed and contact details are up to date
  • ✅ Prepare documents (SPA, ID, payment confirmations)
  • ✅ Complete snagging inspection and prepare a snag list
  • ✅ Record all defects formally
  • ✅ Sign the handover protocol
  • ✅ Receive keys and Title Deed (once payments are fully completed)
  • ✅ Activate utility providers

Our Role

📌 We provide full handover support — from developer acceptance and document control to renovation coordination and rental launch.