Investment advice
How to evaluate a developer in Dubai: the criteria that matter
Léonard Arzouni · 24 September 2026
On an off-plan purchase, the quality of the developer matters as much as that of the property. The project does not exist yet: it is the developer's ability to deliver it, on time and as promised, that protects the investor.
1. Delivery track record
The most telling criterion is the list of projects already delivered. How many projects, in which districts, with what gap between the announced date and the actual date? A developer who has delivered several schemes offers a track record that newcomers do not have.
2. Financial strength and ownership
A developer backed by a major group or listed on a stock exchange publishes verifiable financial information. This is an indicator of resilience, without being an absolute guarantee. It is worth looking at the scale of the current project portfolio: too many simultaneous construction sites can strain execution.
3. Build and finish quality
Visiting delivered buildings, comparing announced finishes with those actually observed, and talking to owners or tenants of previous projects: this on-the-ground feedback is worth more than a brochure.
4. Registration and compliance
Every project must be registered with the authorities, with a dedicated escrow account. It is essential to check that the project and the developer are properly listed in the official registers before making any payment.
5. Commercial transparency
A good developer provides the payment plan, forecast charges, exact floor area, delay clauses and resale conditions without evasion. Vague documents or pressure to decide quickly are warning signs.
6. After-handover service
Construction warranties, the defect-correction period, building management: the relationship continues after the keys are handed over. A developer who follows up on its buildings over time protects the value of the asset.
A simple checklist
- Delivered projects and how well deadlines were met.
- Financial strength and the size of the current portfolio.
- Quality observed on existing buildings.
- Compliance and transparency of documents.
- Follow-up after handover.
Beware of shortcuts
A well-known name is no substitute for analysing the specific project: location, price per square metre, payment plan and resale prospects still need to be examined project by project.
To review your project and check the conditions currently in force, book an appointment with Arzouni Properties.
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