Service charges are one of the most consequential ongoing costs of owning property in Dubai, and they're also one of the most commonly under-researched — buyers often focus heavily on purchase price while giving the annual service charge only a passing glance.
These fees, charged per square foot and set by the building's owners' association or master developer, typically fund common-area maintenance, security, facilities management, insurance, and reserve funds for major future repairs — the shared infrastructure that keeps a building or community running.
A building with extensive amenities — pools, gyms, concierge, elaborate landscaping — will generally carry higher service charges than a more modestly equipped building of similar age and location. Older buildings can also see rising charges if reserve funds need topping up for major works.
Service charges aren't a red flag in themselves — every building has them — but understanding exactly what you're paying for, and how it compares to similar buildings nearby, is essential due diligence before any purchase.
