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If an off-plan project fails
The escrow bank must act with DLD to complete the project or refund depositors.
What the source says
"the Escrow Agent of that project must, after consultation with the Department, take the required measures to preserve the rights of depositors, and ensure that the Real Estate Development project is completed, or depositors are refunded their payments."
Law No. (8) of 2007, Article 15
| Status | Confirmed - The official source states this rule in the words quoted. |
|---|---|
| Instrument | Law No. (8) of 2007, Article 15 |
| Authority | Dubai Government |
| In force since | 2007 |
| Last checked | 26 September 2026 |
| Source | Dubai Government |
Read the full guide
This rule is explained in context, with the costs and steps around it, in Buying Off-Plan in Dubai (2026): Escrow, Oqood, Delays and Reselling.
More rules on off-plan
- Unregistered off-plan sales are void - Confirmed
- Off-plan contracts: 90 days to register - Confirmed
- What a developer can keep if a buyer defaults - Confirmed
- One escrow account per off-plan project - Confirmed
- Escrow money is safe from developer creditors - Confirmed
- The 5% escrow retention - Confirmed
See all 60 rules in the register.
Cite this rule
Home Guide Dubai, "If an off-plan project fails", Dubai property rules register, last checked 26 September 2026.
https://homeguidedubai.com/rules/escrow-refund-on-failure/
This link stays the same when the rule changes. If the rule changes, this page shows the new text and the date it changed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this still the rule today?
We last read the source on 26 September 2026. Rules in Dubai change by circular and by edits to service pages, often without notice. Check the source linked above, and ask Dubai Government in writing before a large payment.
Where does this rule come from?
Law No. (8) of 2007, Article 15, published by Dubai Government. The quote on this page is copied word for word from that source.
Sources
- Law No. (8) of 2007, Article 15 - Dubai Government - accessed 26 September 2026
Every rule above is quoted from the law, decree or official page on the date given. This is general information, not legal advice; rules change, so confirm the current position with the authority named before you act.