Dubai off-plan property & developer disputes
Legal advice on off-plan property purchases and developer disputes in Dubai, including delayed handover, payment demands, contractual notices and proposed cancellation.
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Assess the contract alongside the project’s actual position
A delayed handover or disputed payment demand calls for a review of the sale agreement, instalment schedule, extensions and correspondence. The project’s registration and current status are important evidence alongside the parties’ contractual positions.
Dubai Land Department distinguishes regulatory complaints from contractual claims. Its complaint process does not itself determine every refund or cancellation dispute. The appropriate route depends on the issue and the status of the project.
How the firm can assist
The firm can examine the documents, advise on correspondence or negotiation and coordinate any necessary proceedings with authorised counsel. Technical completion or defect assessments may require an independent expert.
- Review the sale terms, project records and evidence of payments.
- Assess handover, extensions, notices and proposed variations.
- Prepare a reasoned response, settlement proposal or referral for proceedings.
- Reservation form, sale agreement and amendments.
- Payment receipts, demands and developer correspondence.
- Project and unit details, notices and any available status reports.
An initial outline is enough. Detailed records can follow through a process agreed with the firm.
Questions clients often ask
Does a delay automatically entitle me to a refund?
Not necessarily. The agreement, applicable law, project status and evidence need individual assessment before a remedy can be identified.
Should I stop instalments while the dispute is reviewed?
Obtain advice before withholding payments. The payment obligations and consequences of non-payment must be assessed alongside the developer’s alleged breach.
Define the mandate
Clarify your objectives, the jurisdictions involved and any immediate deadline.
Review the legal position
Examine the relevant documents and identify the decisions requiring advice.
Agree the next steps
Set out the work, professional responsibilities and practical sequence.
Experience with a personal point of contact
Hyam El Hachem is an Attorney at Law with the Beirut Bar Association. Following her training at Awada Tyan Law Firm, she established her own firm in 1996 and expanded her practice to the UAE in 2005.
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