If you own an apartment or a home in a managed community in Dubai, you pay service charges. They are an important running cost to understand before you buy.
What service charges are
Service charges pay for running and maintaining the shared parts of a building or community, such as:
Who pays
The owner pays service charges — not the tenant. If you rent your property out, plan for them in your costs. They are usually charged per square foot of your unit, per year, and the rate differs from building to building.
How the rate is set and checked
In Dubai, service charge budgets for jointly owned buildings are reviewed under the RERA service charge system, and owners can check the approved rates and their building's details through the DLD's official channels. Ask the seller or developer for the latest service charge statement before you buy.
Why it matters when you buy
Tips
Include service charges when you plan your purchase with our [upfront payment calculator](/tools/upfront-payment-calculator), and read [buying property in Dubai as a foreigner](/blog/buying-property-dubai-guide-foreigners).