Every Dubai Off-Plan Project, Scored on What Actually Matters

What is off-plan in Dubai real estate?

Off-plan refers to properties sold before or during construction. Buyers purchase based on architectural plans and floor plans, with payment phased across the construction timeline (typically 3–5 years). Off-plan represents ~40% of Dubai's annual transaction volume and offers opportunity for appreciation and yield.

How is delivery risk scored?

Delivery risk is calculated using a weighted formula combining: (1) Developer trust score (60%) from wave 7 developer track record; (2) Project progress (25%) completion percentage; (3) Sold-out ratio (10%) scarcity indicates developer commitment; (4) Community maturity (5%) established vs. emerging.

Scores range 1–100 (100 = lowest risk). Tier-1 developers (Emaar, Sobha, Nakheel) cluster in VERY_LOW/LOW; mid-tier in MEDIUM; emerging in MEDIUM/HIGH/VERY_HIGH.

Which off-plan projects qualify for Golden Visa?

Properties with a starting price of AED 2,000,000+ are eligible for the UAE's 10-year Golden Visa. This tracker filters golden-visa-eligible projects for your convenience. Verify official GDRFA criteria and consult a lawyer before purchase.

How do I choose a payment plan?

Payment plans vary significantly by project. Common structures include:

• • 5% down + 2% monthly: Best for income-supplementing investors
• • 20–25% down + 30% construction + 50% handover: Traditional split
• • 40–50% down on handover: Minimizes financing cost, requires large capital at completion

Our payment plan score (1–10) helps compare buyer-friendliness.

What happens if my project is delayed?

UAE law requires developers to notify RERA of delays. RERA may impose penalties on the developer. Down payments are protected under RERA's escrow rules. If delays exceed 12 months, you may have rights to compensation or refund. Consult a qualified lawyer on your specific protections.

How do I compare projects in this tracker?

Use the interactive table below to filter by developer, community, status, tier, property type, delivery risk tier and price range. Sort by appreciation, payment plan score, delivery risk, or starting price. Download results as CSV for further analysis.

What's the difference between this and the Developer Track Record?

The Developer Track Record (Wave 7) scores developer-level metrics: on-time delivery %, financial strength, complaint volume, post-handover appreciation. This Off-Plan Tracker (Wave 8) applies those developer scores to individual projects, adding project-specific factors (status, price, payment plan, completion %) for detailed project-level comparisons.

Are these data points RERA-certified?

No. These are seeded research estimates based on RERA data, DLD off-plan registry and developer announcements. They are not RERA-certified valuations or legal advice. Always consult a qualified lawyer and valuer before making investment decisions.

How should I approach off-plan investment?

(1) Review this tracker to shortlist projects by delivery risk, payment plan and appreciation potential. (2) Research the developer's track record in the Developer Track Record. (3) Consult a lawyer on payment protection, refund clauses and personal liability. (4) Perform due diligence on the community and developer financial health. (5) Only invest capital you can afford to lock up for 3–5 years.