An expression of interest (EOI) records your interest in a Dubai off-plan launch before unit allocation. Any priority depends on the developer's written terms. It doesn't give you a unit, a fixed price or a sale and purchase agreement (SPA). Refunds, and whether the EOI counts toward your booking, depend on the developer's written EOI terms.
EOI or booking: what's the difference?
| EOI | Booking | |
|---|---|---|
| When | Before unit allocation, subject to the developer's EOI process | After the developer offers you a unit |
| What you get | Your interest on record; any priority depends on the developer's terms | A specific unit and price, subject to the booking documents |
| Contract | The developer's EOI form | The developer's booking/reservation documents; the SPA may follow |
| Amount | Set by the developer for each launch | A share of the unit price, under the payment plan |
| If you walk away | Depends on the developer's written EOI terms | Check the applicable booking/reservation terms and any signed SPA. |
Is an EOI refundable?
Refund eligibility, deductions and timing depend on the developer's written EOI terms. Get these in writing before paying.
How much is an EOI?
The developer sets the EOI amount for each launch; check the EOI form.
Before paying, ask whether and when the EOI is credited toward your booking or purchase price. Separately, ask whether a cheque is held uncashed or deposited. Get both in writing.
Before you pay an EOI (VILA's safety advice)
- Use only the payment instructions on the developer's own EOI form.
- Verify the payee and payment channel directly with the developer, avoid personal accounts, and keep the receipt.
- Ask what happens if your preferred unit type sells out before you're offered a unit.
- Check that the broker is RERA-registered. VILA's ORN is 45990.
How an EOI works when you buy through VILA
- Browse the launch in the VILA Properties app and tap Enquire to reach VILA.
- We fill in the developer's EOI form with you.
- VILA submits the form to the developer and guides you on paying the EOI to the developer. Keep the receipt.
- If the developer offers you a unit, we review its price and payment plan with you.
- If you proceed, follow the developer's booking and SPA process. Check your SPA.
The EOI is made with the developer, not in the app. If you can't use the app, WhatsApp is a backup.
Read next: what to check before booking an off plan property in Dubai, Dubai off plan payment plans and new off plan launches in Dubai.
Questions buyers ask
Is an EOI the same as a booking deposit?
No. An EOI records your interest before allocation. A booking amount is paid only if you're offered a unit and proceed, under the developer's booking documents.
Do I get my EOI back if I don't get a unit?
Refund eligibility, deductions and timing depend on the developer's written EOI terms. Get these in writing before paying.
Does the EOI count toward the price?
Before paying, ask whether and when the EOI is credited toward your booking or purchase price. Separately, ask whether a cheque is held uncashed or deposited. Get both in writing.
Who should I pay the EOI to?
Use only the payment instructions on the developer's own EOI form, and verify the payee directly with the developer.
Does an EOI fix the price?
An EOI alone does not guarantee a fixed price. Check the price and any price-validity conditions in the developer's written offer, booking documents and SPA.
Terms differ by developer and launch; check the developer’s EOI form. Aram Vila Properties LLC, RERA ORN 45990, BRN 55719.
This article is editorial commentary and market analysis, not a property advertisement or investment advice. All specific property information should be verified with the developer and the Dubai Land Department.
