One of the biggest advantages of buying off-plan in Abu Dhabi is the payment plan. Instead of paying the full price upfront, you pay in stages while the project is built. But plans differ a lot between projects, and choosing the right one can change your cash flow, your mortgage needs and even your investment return.
How to read a payment plan
Payment plans are written as two numbers, such as 60/40. The first number is the share of the price you pay before completion (booking plus construction instalments). The second is the share due on handover.
- 60/40: 60% during construction, 40% at handover
- 50/50: half during construction, half at handover
- 30/70: 30% during construction, 70% at handover
Some developers also publish three numbers, such as 10/40/50: 10% on booking, 40% during construction and 50% on handover.
Common plans in Abu Dhabi, with real examples
| Plan | How it works | Example projects |
|---|---|---|
| 65/35 | 10% booking, 55% during construction, 35% on handover | Saadiyat Island launches such as Mamsha Gardens and The Arthouse |
| 55/45 | 5% booking, 50% during construction, 45% on handover | The Canopies at Yas Point, The Orchids at Yas Acres |
| 50/50 | 5–10% booking, instalments to 50%, 50% on handover | Talay, Tara Park, Muheira |
| 40/60 | 10% booking, 30% during construction, 60% on handover | The Artery Residences, Fay Valley |
| 30/70 or 20/80 | Most of the price paid at completion | Selected launches on Al Raha Beach and Yas Island |
Plans change between launches and even between phases, so always confirm the current plan for your unit.
A worked example
Imagine a villa priced at AED 13.5 million on a 50/50 plan with a 5% booking amount, like the four-bedroom villas at Talay in Marsa Al Saadiyat:
| Stage | Share | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Booking | 5% | AED 675,000 |
| Four instalments (2027–2028) | 4 × 5% | AED 2,700,000 |
| Two instalments (2029) | 2 × 10% | AED 2,700,000 |
| Handover | 50% | AED 6,750,000 |
By handover you would have paid AED 6.75 million, with the remaining AED 6.75 million due at completion, which many buyers cover with a mortgage.
Construction-heavy vs handover-heavy plans
Construction-heavy plans (e.g. 65/35, 60/40)
- Smaller final payment, so less need for a mortgage at handover
- Often available on premium, high-demand launches
- Requires steady cash flow during the build
Handover-heavy plans (e.g. 40/60, 30/70)
- Lower payments during construction, freeing cash for other investments
- Useful for investors planning to sell or refinance near completion
- A large final payment that you must be ready to fund
Post-handover payment plans
A few developers let buyers keep paying after they receive the keys, spreading part of the price over one to several years. These plans can be attractive for end users, but compare the total price carefully, as flexibility is sometimes priced in.
Can I use a mortgage for off-plan?
Yes, in many cases. Most buyers use a mortgage for the handover payment, when the home is complete and can be valued like a ready property. Some banks and developers also offer financing during construction for eligible buyers, but banks usually lend a lower share of the value on off-plan homes than on ready ones. Speak to a mortgage adviser early, ideally before you book.
How to choose the right plan
- Map your cash flow for the whole construction period, not just the booking.
- Plan the handover payment: savings, a mortgage, or a sale of another asset.
- Match the plan to your goal: end users may prefer lower final payments, while investors often prefer handover-heavy plans.
- Get the dated schedule in writing and check late-payment terms in the SPA.
Frequently asked questions
What does a 60/40 payment plan mean?
You pay 60% of the price before completion (booking plus construction instalments) and the remaining 40% on handover.
Which payment plan is best for investors?
Many investors prefer handover-heavy plans such as 40/60 or 30/70, as they keep cash outlay low during construction. The right choice depends on how you will fund the final payment.
What is the booking amount for off-plan in Abu Dhabi?
Usually 5% to 10% of the price, depending on the developer and project.
Can I pay the handover amount with a mortgage?
Yes. Most buyers who finance use a mortgage for the handover payment, once the property is complete and can be valued.
Do payment plans include the registration fee?
No. The registration fee and admin charges are usually paid separately, often at booking.
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