Those who invest in off-plan property in Dubai often wonder whether it is possible to sell the property again before it is completed. The honest answer? It depends heavily on the type of project and the developer.
If you have purchased a property from a large and reputable developer such as Emaar, for example a villa or a townhouse, it is more likely that you can resell your property relatively easily. Especially if the project is popular and there is high demand for it. But with smaller developers, or in projects with many standard apartments, this is often much more difficult.
Selling before completion sounds better than it is
Many real estate agents in Dubai paint a rosy picture: “You simply sell your unit again before handover”. In reality, this often proves more difficult than expected. Unless it is an exceptionally popular development or a market situation where demand far exceeds supply, finding a buyer can be quite disappointing.
It is therefore important not to invest in Dubai with the main goal of reselling your property before completion. Of course, there are situations where it works, especially if you got in early on a project that later proves to be very popular. But you can never be certain.
An investment must primarily make sense in the long term. Do not count on a quick flip as a core strategy, but consider whether you can hold onto the property yourself or rent it out if reselling turns out not to be an option.
Edward Clarke is a seasoned property expert with extensive experience in international real estate investment, with a particular focus on Dubai’s fast-growing property market. Drawing on both personal investment experience and years of client advisory work, he helps investors make informed, realistic decisions when purchasing apartments, villas or off-plan developments in Dubai. With a pragmatic mindset, a sharp focus on returns and a strong commitment to transparency, Edward is a trusted point of contact for anyone considering a property investment in Dubai.
