Dubai / Buyer checklist
Check the advert before you book the viewing
A practical Dubai checklist for matching a property advertisement to its official permit record, keeping evidence and asking a precise first question.
Keep one identifiable offer
Before comparing a home with another listing, save the exact advertisement URL and the date you saw it. Record the advertised building, property type, area, asking price and advertiser name. This simple shortlist becomes useful when a price changes, a viewing is offered for another unit or an agent sends a different set of photographs. Treat missing fields as questions to resolve. A marketplace listing is a starting point for research; it does not independently establish ownership, availability or authority to advertise.
Match the Madmoun result to the advertisement
Dubai Land Department describes Madmoun as a Trakheesi service that connects a QR code to a real estate advertisement permit. DLD says the official result can show the advertising company, advertisement status and property details. Scan the code supplied with the advert and examine the destination before entering any personal information. Compare the official record with the offer you saved. A QR image by itself does not show that it belongs to the unit you are discussing. If details differ or the result cannot be opened, ask for clarification before progressing.
Use the official licence and permit check
DLD also provides a Verify License and Permits service through its website and Dubai REST app. Use the official service for the reference the advertiser supplies. Keep your check separate from the wording of a portal badge or a social profile. This article explains a checking process; HomeHNI has not verified the individual property you are considering. For uncertainty about a specific record, use DLD's official support rather than accepting an explanation based only on a forwarded screenshot.
Send a question that can be answered
A useful first enquiry is: ‘I am asking about the property at this listing URL. Please confirm current availability, the full asking price, the area measurement used, the advertiser’s authority and the applicable advertisement permit reference.’ Add your intended viewing date and whether you need a sale or rental property. Ask for the exact unit and current photographs before travelling. You can provide your property needs without sending passport copies, bank statements or identity documents in an initial public enquiry.
Keep the checks separate
An advertisement check does not replace inspection of the home, review of ownership records or advice on a purchase or tenancy agreement. Keep a short status beside each item: confirmed, awaiting evidence or unresolved. Overseas buyers can use the same list with a trusted local representative, retaining dated records of what was checked and by whom. Apply this Dubai-specific source guidance to Dubai advertisements; other emirates have their own authorities and procedures. If you advertise through HomeHNI, supply accurate details and any applicable permissions rather than copying another property's permit.