Best Payment Plans for Off-Plan Properties in 2025

Investing in off-plan properties has become a popular choice for many buyers in Dubai due to the potential for high returns and the ability to purchase properties at more affordable prices before their completion. One of the most attractive aspects of buying an off-plan property is the variety of flexible payment plans offered by developers. These plans allow buyers to spread the cost over a longer period, often with less financial pressure during the construction phase.

As we move into 2025, off-plan properties in Dubai continue to offer competitive payment structures that suit a wide range of investors, from first-time homebuyers to seasoned real estate investors. In this article, we will explore the best payment plans for off-plan properties in Dubai, and how these plans work to benefit buyers.

1. Post-Completion Payment Plan

A popular payment plan for off-plan properties in Dubai is the post-completion payment plan. This plan allows buyers to pay a significant portion of the property’s price after the construction is completed, making it an ideal option for those who prefer to hold off on payments until they can move into the property.

  • How It Works: Typically, a buyer is required to pay a small deposit (usually 10-20%) upfront. The remainder of the cost is paid in installments after the property is completed. These installments are often spread over a period of 1-2 years after completion, which gives buyers ample time to arrange their finances.

  • Advantages: This payment plan gives buyers the peace of mind that they won’t need to make significant payments while the property is under construction. It’s an excellent option for buyers who expect their financial situation to improve by the time the property is ready for handover.

  • Best For: Those who prefer to wait for the completion of the project before committing to full payments, as well as investors who are confident the property value will increase during construction.

2. 90/10 Payment Plan

Another popular and attractive payment plan is the 90/10 payment plan, which is favored by both investors and end-users. Under this plan, the buyer pays 10% upfront and the remaining 90% is paid closer to or upon completion.

  • How It Works: The buyer pays a small deposit, usually around 10% of the property price. The remaining 90% is due upon the completion of the property or in a few installments after the completion, depending on the developer’s terms.

  • Advantages: This plan minimizes the financial burden during the construction period, allowing the buyer to manage smaller payments in the meantime. It also gives the buyer the flexibility to arrange finances and arrange for the final payment once the property is ready to move in or rent out.

  • Best For: Buyers who want to lock in the price of the property but prefer to pay the bulk of the cost only when the property is ready.

3. 40/60 Payment Plan

The 40/60 payment plan is also a commonly offered plan in 2025, particularly for luxury developments and larger residential projects. It offers a more balanced approach for those looking for extended payment options while giving developers the capital they need to complete the project.

  • How It Works: In this payment structure, the buyer pays 40% of the total price during the construction phase, typically in several installments based on project milestones (e.g., 10% at the time of booking, 10% at key construction stages, and 10% at the handover). The remaining 60% is paid upon completion or during handover.

  • Advantages: The 40/60 payment plan allows buyers to spread out their payments more evenly while still enjoying lower up-front payments compared to traditional methods. This plan is beneficial for those who can afford to pay the larger amount closer to the completion of the property.

  • Best For: Investors who are comfortable with making larger payments during the construction phase and those who want to secure their property early at a more affordable price.

4. 50/50 Payment Plan

The 50/50 payment plan is especially common in higher-end residential developments and luxury projects in Dubai. It offers a clear structure that divides the payment into two major parts, making it easier for buyers to manage.

  • How It Works: Under this plan, the buyer pays 50% of the total price during the construction phase, with the balance due upon completion of the project. The payment is often made in multiple installments, aligned with the construction milestones.

  • Advantages: The 50/50 plan offers significant flexibility, with half of the cost paid before the completion of the property and the other half after. It also provides the buyer with a good sense of how much they will need to budget for throughout the construction period.

  • Best For: Those who have sufficient liquidity during the construction phase but want to avoid paying the full amount upfront.

5. Rent-to-Own Plans

Some developers offer rent-to-own options for off-plan properties in Dubai, making it easier for tenants to become homeowners. This is particularly attractive for individuals who want to live in a property before fully committing to the purchase.

  • How It Works: With a rent-to-own scheme, the buyer agrees to pay rent for a certain period (often 1 to 3 years) while having the option to purchase the property at the end of the rental term. A portion of the rent paid during the rental period is often credited toward the purchase price.

  • Advantages: This option allows tenants to test out the property and community before making a full commitment to purchase. It also provides an opportunity for tenants to save up for the final deposit or balance of the mortgage.

  • Best For: Buyers who are unsure about fully committing to a property or for those who prefer to rent while building equity toward a future purchase.

6. Flexible Payment Plans with Zero Interest

Some developers offer flexible payment plans with zero interest, making it easier for buyers to manage their payments over an extended period.

  • How It Works: These plans allow the buyer to pay in equal installments over a period of several years without any added interest. For example, a buyer may pay 1% or 2% per month for up to 3-5 years, depending on the developer's terms.

  • Advantages: The key advantage here is that the buyer does not need to worry about interest payments, which can add a significant cost over time. The flexibility also gives buyers ample time to budget and pay for the property without the pressure of hefty upfront costs.

  • Best For: Buyers looking for long-term payment flexibility without the additional burden of interest payments.

7. Flexible Milestone Payment Plans

Some developers offer milestone-based payment plans, where payments are made in stages, depending on the project’s construction milestones. These are tailored to match the progress of the development.

  • How It Works: Payments are split into various stages, such as when the project reaches certain stages of construction (e.g., foundation completion, building framework, or handover). Each milestone triggers a payment.

  • Advantages: This approach aligns the payments with the project’s progress, making it easier for buyers to manage their finances while also ensuring that the development is progressing as planned.

  • Best For: Buyers who prefer to make payments based on the progress of the development rather than lump-sum payments.

Choosing the Best Payment Plan for You

The right payment plan for purchasing an off-plan property in Dubai in 2025 largely depends on your financial situation, investment goals, and the property type. Each payment plan comes with its own benefits, and understanding how these plans align with your financial situation is key to making a smart investment decision.

Whether you prefer to pay closer to completion, want to spread the cost throughout construction, or prefer a flexible rent-to-own plan, Dubai’s real estate market continues to offer innovative solutions for every buyer. At Gaia Living Real Estate, we are here to guide you in selecting the best off-plan payment plan that suits your financial goals. Contact us today to discuss your options and take the next step toward securing your ideal property in Dubai.