Service Charge Index
Compare service charges across Dubai's buildings and communities. Make informed property decisions with our comprehensive service charge data.
What Are Service Charges?
Service charges are mandatory annual fees that property owners in Dubai pay to maintain common areas and shared facilities in their building or community. These charges are regulated by RERA (Real Estate Regulatory Agency) and are essential for keeping properties well-maintained and ensuring residents enjoy quality living standards.
Understanding service charges is crucial when buying property in Dubai, as they can significantly impact your total cost of ownership. A property with lower purchase price but high service charges may cost more in the long run than a seemingly expensive property with reasonable maintenance fees.
Service Charges by Area
Compare estimated service charge ranges across Dubai's most popular areas. Rates vary based on building amenities, age, and management quality.
| Area | Building Type | Min (AED/sqft) | Max (AED/sqft) | Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dubai Marina | High-rise | AED 12 | AED 25 | AED 18 |
| Downtown Dubai | Premium | AED 15 | AED 35 | AED 22 |
| Palm Jumeirah | Luxury | AED 18 | AED 45 | AED 28 |
| Business Bay | Mixed-use | AED 10 | AED 22 | AED 15 |
| Dubai Hills Estate | Family | AED 8 | AED 18 | AED 12 |
| JBR | Beachfront | AED 14 | AED 30 | AED 20 |
| Jumeirah Village Circle | Affordable | AED 6 | AED 14 | AED 9 |
| Arabian Ranches | Villa Community | AED 3 | AED 8 | AED 5 |
| Dubai Sports City | Sports Community | AED 8 | AED 16 | AED 11 |
| Motor City | Mixed Community | AED 7 | AED 15 | AED 10 |
* Rates are approximate and may vary based on specific buildings, amenities, and management companies. Always verify current service charges before purchasing.
What Service Charges Include
Understanding what you're paying for helps you evaluate if service charges are reasonable.
🔒 Security & Access
24/7 security personnel, CCTV monitoring, access control systems, and gatehouse management.
🧹 Cleaning & Maintenance
Common area cleaning, lobby maintenance, window cleaning, and general repairs.
🌳 Landscaping
Garden maintenance, irrigation systems, tree trimming, and outdoor area upkeep.
🏊 Amenities
Swimming pool maintenance, gym equipment, sauna, and recreational facilities.
🛗 Building Systems
Elevator maintenance, HVAC systems, fire safety equipment, and electrical systems.
📋 Management
Building management fees, insurance, reserve funds, and administrative costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about service charges in Dubai.
What are service charges in Dubai?
Service charges are annual fees paid by property owners to cover the maintenance and upkeep of common areas in a building or community. They are regulated by RERA (Real Estate Regulatory Agency) and typically include costs for security, cleaning, landscaping, pool maintenance, gym facilities, and building management.
How are service charges calculated in Dubai?
Service charges are calculated per square foot of your property. The rate varies based on the building amenities, location, age of the building, and the developer/management company. Rates are approved annually by RERA and property owners are invoiced accordingly.
What is the average service charge in Dubai?
Service charges in Dubai typically range from AED 5 to AED 45 per square foot annually. Affordable communities like JVC average around AED 9/sqft, while premium locations like Palm Jumeirah can reach AED 28/sqft or higher for luxury buildings with extensive amenities.
Are service charges negotiable?
Service charges themselves are not negotiable as they are set by the building management and approved by RERA. However, property owners can participate in owners association meetings to review and potentially challenge proposed budgets if they seem unreasonable.
What do service charges cover?
Service charges typically cover: security and CCTV, common area cleaning, landscaping and garden maintenance, swimming pool and gym maintenance, elevator maintenance, building insurance, pest control, waste management, and general repairs to common areas.
How often are service charges paid?
Service charges are usually paid annually or semi-annually. Property owners receive invoices from the building management company or developers Owners Association. Payment can typically be made via bank transfer, cheque, or online portals.
Do villas have lower service charges than apartments?
Generally, yes. Villa communities often have lower service charges (AED 3-10/sqft) as they have fewer shared amenities compared to high-rise apartments. However, the total amount may be similar or higher due to larger plot sizes.
Can service charges increase over time?
Yes, service charges can increase annually based on inflation, increased maintenance requirements, or enhanced services. However, any increases must be approved by RERA and property owners have the right to review the proposed budget during owners association meetings.