Should You Buy Property in Dubai Directly from a Developer or Use a Real Estate Agent?

When it comes to buying property in Dubai, many investors face the dilemma: Should I buy directly from a developer or work with a real estate agent? This decision often stems from misconceptions that buying property directly from a developer will save money or simplify the process. However, this assumption can lead to long-term financial and logistical pitfalls.

If you are a Beginner in Real Estate fill out the form to get a proper Guide:

In this exclusive episode of the Dubai Connect Podcast, Ghada “GG” Benitez, CEO of GG Benitez International, brings together industry leaders to tackle this question. With insights from top experts in the Dubai real estate market, including:

  • Dr. Mahmoud Alburai, Senior Advisor to the Dubai Land Department
  • Mohamed Kaswani, VP of Property Finder
  • Agents from renowned developers such as Sobha, Ellington, and Expo City
  • DevMark’s Executive Producer
  • Dr. Anand Menon, Dubai real estate investment strategist

This episode compiles decades of experience to help investors understand the differences between buying directly and working with a Dubai real estate agent.

Table of Contents

    Misconceptions About Buying Property in Dubai Directly from Developers

    1. “Buying Direct Means Discounts” Developers set fixed pricing, so there’s no financial advantage to bypassing an agent. In fact, an agent provides access to additional opportunities and services that can maximize your ROI.
    2. “Developers Offer Better Deals” Developers promote their projects exclusively, while a Dubai real estate agent can present a wider range of options tailored to your goals.
    3. “Agents Add Complexity” On the contrary, an agent simplifies the process—from managing the expression of interest (EOI) to ensuring snagging issues are resolved and providing post-sale support.

    Why Work with a Dubai Real Estate Agent?

    1. Market Knowledge and Neutral Advice: A qualified agent provides unbiased recommendations on projects across the Dubai property market, helping you avoid common pitfalls.
    2. Access to the Entire Market: Developers only sell their own projects, whereas an agent opens the door to properties across Dubai, from off-plan projects to ready homes.
    3. Post-Sale Support: Agents assist with snagging, property management, and even timing your resale to maximize profits. Developers don’t offer this level of service.
    4. Support with Golden Visa and Financing: An agent connects you with a network of international tax accountants, mortgage brokers, and legal experts to simplify every aspect of the transaction, including securing a Golden Visa.

    Insights from Dubai’s Top Experts

    On this special episode of the Dubai Connect Podcast, our esteemed guests—including Dr. Mahmoud Alburai, Mohamed Kaswani, and agents from top-tier developers—share their insider perspectives on how to navigate the Dubai real estate market. They provide actionable insights on real estate investing, high ROI investments, and the importance of submitting an expression of interest real estate (EOI) when buying in Dubai.

    The Hidden Costs of Skipping an Agent

    While working directly with a developer might seem like a shortcut, it can limit your options, increase risks, and cost you more in the long run. A Dubai real estate agent brings expertise, broader market access, and long-term value to your investment, ensuring every decision aligns with your goals.

    Watch the Episode on the Dubai Connect Podcast

    To hear the full discussion and learn from Dubai’s leading experts, watch the latest episode of the Dubai Connect Podcast. Discover why working with an agent is the key to success in the Dubai property market.

    About Ghada “GG” Benitez

    I’m Ghada “GG” Benitez, CEO of GG Benitez International, a Certified International Property Specialist (CIPS®)—the only internationally recognized designation by the National Association of Realtors. I am also a Licensed Realtor® in California and host of the popular Dubai Connect Podcast.

    With a degree in Economics and offices in California, Spain, and Dubai, I specialize in connecting global investors to the most lucrative opportunities in the Dubai real estate investment market. I’m also the only American agent to host the Dubai Land Department on my podcast.

    My Dubai-based partner, a RERA-certified expert with over 20 years of experience, and I provide full-service guidance for global investors, including:

    • Helping find properties tailored to your investment goals
    • Timing resale opportunities for maximum ROI
    • Connecting you with property managers, international tax attorneys, and financial experts
    • Assisting with snagging, financing, and Golden Visa applications

    We guide our clients with ethics, expertise, and a commitment to helping them grow their real estate portfolios.

    Contact GG Benitez International today to learn how we can help you navigate the Dubai real estate market with confidence!


    Ghada Benitez (“GG”)
    Certified International Property Specialist / Licensed Realtor®
    Host of The Dubai Connect Podcast™ & The Spain Connect
    GG Benitez International
    619.339.7978 | GG@GGBenitezInternational.com | WhatsApp
    Realty Executives Dillon
    DRE# 01487964


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