Dubai Service Charges in 2025: Compare rates across communities

Dubai has long attracted the world’s most savvy investors, entrepreneurs, and financiers, establishing itself as a global hub for wealth and innovation. As the city continues to rise as one of the leading financial centers globally, it’s also become a top destination for expatriates and professionals relocating for work.

With a growing number of first-time homebuyers entering the Dubai real estate market, we at Arabian Sunrise Properties are committed to helping you navigate the process — starting with a clear understanding of the property service charges and fees you’ll encounter when buying your first home in Dubai.

📌 What Are Service Charges in Dubai?

First things first, let’s shed some light on what service charges mean. The seemingly all-encompassing term refers to a maintenance and upkeep fee that a buyer pays annually, and it is expressed in dirhams per square foot. Anybody interested in finding the service fee for any community can check the Dubai Land Department’s website and either find the service charges based on their Title Deed Number or by selecting the community on a map.

Aside from maintenance and upkeep, service charges also include other aspects both pertaining to the property and to the community, such as

• Cleaning
• Security
• Landscaping
• Waste disposal
• Repairs
• Management and administration
• Utilities – DEWA

We decided to make things easier for you and help you have an overview by comparing service charges in different communities in Dubai.

💰 Dubai Service Charges in 2025 by Community 

Service charges in Dubai vary significantly based on location, property type, and amenities. Below is a breakdown of average service charges per square foot in key communities:

Premium Communities

• Downtown Dubai: Service charges range from AED 11.01 to AED 67.88 per sq ft, with iconic buildings like Burj Khalifa at the higher end.
• Palm Jumeirah: Charges vary between AED 10 to AED 15 per sq ft for villas and AED 11 to AED 15 for apartments.
• Dubai Marina: Service charges average between AED 12.36 and AED 19.80 per sq ft, depending on the building.

Mid-Range Communities

• Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC): Charges range from AED 9.73 to AED 22 per sq ft, reflecting the variety of properties available.
• Business Bay: Average service charges are around AED 15 per sq ft.
• Damac Hills: Service charges vary across projects, with Golf Terrace at AED 4.17 and Golf Veduta at AED 19.53 per sq ft.

Affordable Communities

• International City: Offers the lowest service charges at approximately AED 7 per sq ft.
• Discovery Gardens: Average service charges are around AED 12.5 per sq ft.
• Al Furjan: Service charges are approximately AED 0.8 per sq ft, making it one of the most affordable communities.

📈 2025 Trends: Service Charge Adjustments and RERA Guidelines

Dubai’s Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) has launched initiatives to help owners cope with increasing operational costs. According to What’s On Dubai, service charges are expected to rise by up to 10% in 2025, influenced by inflation and rising maintenance costs.

💡 Tip: Investors should consult RERA’s Service Charge Index and compare rates before buying.

📝 Conclusion

Whether you’re investing in luxury waterfront apartments or budget-friendly townhouses, understanding Dubai’s service charge landscape can significantly affect your ROI. With communities like Al Furjan offering unbeatable low charges and Downtown Dubai delivering high-end luxury (at a premium), the market provides something for every type of buyer.

At Arabian Sunrise Properties, we’re here to guide you every step of the way—from comparing service charge rates to securing your next dream investment.

Want personalized advice or a free consultation? Contact our expert team today and take the first step toward your ideal property in Dubai.