How Dubai's 1% Payment Plans Work: A Guide for Investors

July 7, 2025
How Dubai's 1% Payment Plans Work: A Guide for Investors

Buying a home or investing in real estate has always been a dream for many living in or relocating to Dubai. From panoramic sea-view apartments to luxury villas in gated communities, Dubai’s real estate market offers something for everyone—but affordability remains a key concern.

That’s where the 1% payment plan in Dubai comes in. Introduced by leading developers, this flexible payment structure is transforming how residents and investors can secure property ownership in one of the world’s fastest-growing real estate markets.


What is the 1% Payment Plan in Dubai?

The 1% payment plan is a real estate financing model that allows buyers to pay just 1% of the property’s value monthly over an extended period. This approach eliminates the need for a large upfront down payment and makes it easier for people with limited savings to step into property ownership.

Instead of arranging a hefty lump sum, you can gradually pay off the purchase price in manageable monthly instalments—often with little to no interest.


How Does the 1% Plan Work?

The process is straightforward:

  1. Choose a property from a developer offering the 1% plan

  2. Sign a sales agreement and make an initial payment (typically 10–20%)

  3. Pay 1% of the total property value monthly over a set period (often 5–7 years)

  4. In many cases, once 50% is paid, you become eligible to receive the title deed or full ownership rights

This plan is especially attractive for first-time buyers in Dubai, young professionals, and investors who prefer long-term payment flexibility over traditional mortgage structures.


Why Choose the 1% Payment Plan?

Affordability

The plan removes the burden of massive upfront payments and allows you to enter the real estate market with a lower financial barrier.

Better Cash Flow Management

By spreading payments across multiple years, buyers can manage their income more efficiently without sacrificing liquidity.

Early Ownership Access

With some projects offering the title deed at 50% payment, buyers can access ownership rights earlier than with conventional plans.

Lower Monthly Costs than Rent

In some cases, monthly instalments under the 1% plan are less than average rental prices—meaning it may be smarter to buy than rent in the long term.


Are There Any Limitations?

Like any financing option, the 1% plan has its drawbacks:

  • Limited Inventory: Not all developers or projects offer this plan

  • Developer and Bank Approval Needed: Eligibility often depends on income, credit score, and financial documents

  • Location Trade-Offs: These properties may not always be in Dubai’s most premium areas, though many are in up-and-coming communities

Despite these, for many buyers, the benefits far outweigh the downsides.

Top Developers Offering 1% Payment Plan in Dubai

A growing number of trusted developers are adopting the 1% payment plan model to make property ownership in Dubai more accessible. Here are some of the top names offering this option:


Danube Properties

One of the pioneers of the 1% monthly installment model, Danube is known for its affordable luxury apartments. Properties in Arjan, Al Furjan, Business Bay, and International City like Elz, Lawnz, Resortz, and Eleganz fall under this flexible plan. Buyers can secure studio to 2-bedroom units with ease.


Damac Properties

Damac offers a blend of lifestyle and flexibility with projects such as Damac Canal Heights, Canal Crown, Morocco at Damac Lagoons, and Safa Two at Safa Park. These luxury residences come with attractive post-handover payment options and 1% monthly plans, especially suitable for investors seeking long-term capital appreciation.


Azizi Developments

Azizi’s 1% plan covers stylish, ready-to-move-in or off-plan residences in locations like Meydan, Dubai Healthcare City, and Al Jaddaf. With a focus on affordability and aesthetics, buyers can explore well-designed studios and apartments in vibrant, well-connected communities.


Binghatti Developers

Binghatti has joined the First-Time Home Buyer Programme and is also offering 1% payment plans on select inventory. Known for their iconic architecture and strategic locations in JVC, Business Bay, and Downtown, Binghatti properties appeal to both end-users and investors looking for strong ROI with low entry costs.


Samana Developers

Samana stands out by combining resort-style living with affordable payment schemes. With projects like Samana Waves, Samana Hills, and Samana Golf Views, they offer 1% monthly payment plans and even guaranteed rental returns—making them a favorite among young investors and international buyers.


Alternatives to the 1% Plan

If the 1% option doesn’t suit your goals, Dubai’s real estate market still offers flexible alternatives:

  • 10/90, 50/50, and 80/20 developer payment plans

  • Post-handover payment plans

  • 25-year mortgage options through banks and developers

  • Rent-to-own properties where part of your rent builds equity

  • Joint ownership or partnerships to split down payments

Each of these methods offers its own benefits depending on your budget and investment timeline.


Can You Buy Property in Dubai Without a Down Payment?

While rare, there are ways to minimize or bypass the typical down payment:

Rent-to-Own Model

Pay monthly rent toward the property, and eventually convert the total into equity toward ownership.

Joint Ventures

Partner with family, friends, or business associates to collectively invest in a property and share the financial responsibility.

Always consult a qualified real estate broker to evaluate these options based on your personal situation.


How to Set a Budget for Buying in Dubai

One of the smartest ways to approach buying real estate is to follow the 28% rule:
➡️ Your mortgage or property payments should not exceed 28% of your monthly income.

Also, account for additional costs like:

  • Property registration fees

  • DLD charges

  • Maintenance and service charges

  • Home insurance

Setting a proper budget keeps you financially secure while growing your wealth through real estate.


Final Thoughts

Dubai’s property market is open, diverse, and now—more affordable than ever. With innovative offers like the 1% payment plan, even those with modest savings can take a step toward luxury property ownership.

If you’ve been waiting for the right time to buy, this could be your sign.


💼 Work with Experts You Can Trust

At 𝐓𝐫𝐞𝐲̈𝐬𝐭𝐚, we help clients find the best property deals in Dubai—including exclusive access to projects offering 1% monthly plans, post-handover payment options, and customized mortgage support.

📩 Contact our team of experts today and let’s turn your dream of owning in Dubai into reality.

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