The gift transfer fee is the reduced Dubai Land Department fee charged when property is transferred as a gift between qualifying first-degree relatives. It is markedly lower than the standard transfer fee applied to an ordinary sale.
Where you’ll see it
You’ll see the gift transfer fee when registering a qualifying family transfer. A first-degree gift is commonly charged at around 0.125% of the property value, compared with the standard 4% on a sale — though current rates should be confirmed with the DLD.
Why it matters
The saving against a normal sale can be substantial, which is why families use the gift route to move property between generations or spouses. But the reduced fee depends on the relationship qualifying and being properly evidenced; otherwise the standard fee applies.
What it is not
The gift transfer fee is not the standard 4% sale transfer fee, and it is not a tax on the gift — it is the DLD’s reduced registration charge for qualifying gifts. Other costs, such as trustee and admin fees, may still apply.
Example
A father gifting an apartment to his son registers the transfer as a gift; the DLD charges the reduced gift transfer fee rather than the full sale rate, evidenced by proof of the relationship.
Connected documents and parties
Gift deed, proof of relationship, title deed; donor, recipient, DLD, trustee office.
Going deeper: for the qualifying conditions and process, see a Dubai conveyancing specialist.
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