Dubai’s property market is witnessing growing discussions around the role of independent transfer services, as some leading brokerages require buyers to pay conveyancing or sales-progression fees even when the service is managed within the same business group holding the seller’s mandate.

The practice has gained attention as brokerage websites promote such services, while LinkedIn and Instagram profiles highlight dedicated sales-progression teams operating within agencies. Industry observers point out that the concern is not about the capability of in-house conveyancers but whether buyers should be required to use a provider whose primary commercial relationship may be linked to the seller.

A seller may have multiple properties listed with the same brokerage or may rely on the agency for future purchases, creating a stronger commercial connection than that of a buyer completing a single transaction. This relationship could become relevant when seller-side issues delay or complicate a transfer.

Jan Baluyut, Director, Property Affairs at Cendale, which operates Conveyance.ae, said independent transfer providers offer procedural oversight by remaining separate from sales mandates and commission structures. He added that buyers benefit from transparency when the party managing the transfer has no commercial interest tied to either side of the transaction.

The concept of functional separation is already established in several global property markets. In the UK, buyers and sellers commonly appoint separate solicitors, while in the US, attorneys, title companies and escrow providers perform distinct roles depending on state regulations.

The need for independent transaction support applies to both ready properties and secondary off-plan transactions. While processes may vary, buyers require accurate information, unbiased coordination and clear accountability throughout the transfer process.

As Dubai continues to attract international investors and expand its real estate sector, greater transparency around optional in-house services and independent transfer choices could strengthen buyer confidence and support a more mature property ecosystem.