If you’ve been interested in purchasing an apartment or villa in Dubai, you’ve likely heard from developers or realtors that payment must be made via manager’s check . For many foreigners, this concept sounds unfamiliar, as this instrument is practically uncommon in Russia or Ukraine. But in the Emirates, no major transaction is complete without it.
Let’s take a closer look at what a manager check is in the UAE, why it’s needed, and why it’s most often used for real estate and large contracts.
Definition: What is a check manager?
A manager’s check is a banking instrument, a check issued and guaranteed by a bank. Unlike a regular personal check, which is dependent on the owner’s account balance, a manager’s check is always guaranteed, as the funds are debited immediately and reserved by the bank.
Simply put, it is a kind of “paper cash” that is 100% confirmed by the bank and cannot be rejected when paid.
Where is Check Manager used in the UAE?
In the Emirates, the manager check is the standard payment method in situations where security and transparency are required:
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When purchasing real estate, developers almost always require payment via manager’s check. This ensures payment will be made on time.
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Real estate rentals. Annual rent is often paid in a series of manager checks.
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Large transactions between companies. For example, the purchase of a car, equipment, or business contracts.
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Deposits are required when participating in tenders or reserving real estate.
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Payment of government fees. In some cases, UAE authorities require this instrument.
Therefore, if you are considering investing in Dubai, the question “what is a manager check in the UAE and why is it needed” will become key for you already at the first stage of the transaction.
Why is check manager so popular?
The reason is that this tool protects both sides equally:
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The seller or developer is confident that the money has been reserved by the bank and that payment will definitely be received.
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The buyer is protected because the check is made out specifically to the recipient (for example, to the developer), and no one else can cash it.
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The state gains transparency. Banks record the movement of funds, making transactions more secure and official.
That’s why the question ” Why do you need a check manager in the UAE ?” can be answered simply: for security, transparency, and trust in the transaction.
What is the difference between a manager check and a personal check?
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A personal check is dependent on the client’s account balance. If there are no funds available at the time of payment, the check will not be processed.
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The manager’s check is guaranteed by the bank, and the money is debited immediately upon its issue.
For a developer or a real estate seller, this is a fundamental difference. A personal check may not go through, but a manager’s check is always equivalent to cash, only in a convenient and official form.
A practical example
Ivan from Moscow decided to buy an apartment in Dubai for 1,200,000 dirhams. The developer told him they only accepted payment by manager’s check. Ivan contacted a local bank, deposited the funds, and a manager’s check was issued in his name. With this document, he calmly submitted the payment to the developer.
Why is this convenient?
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The developer is confident that the money is real and has been reserved.
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Ivan is at peace that his money will not fall into the hands of third parties, since the check can only be cashed for its intended purpose.
Benefits of a check manager for foreigners
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Simplicity. No need to handle complicated bank transfers from Russia or Ukraine. Simply open an account with a UAE bank and issue a check.
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Recognition. All developers and notaries in the Emirates accept this instrument.
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Security. Minimal risks and disputes.
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Official. The transaction takes place within the banking systеm, which is important when purchasing real estate.
Cons to be aware of
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You must have an account in a UAE bank (this is a standard procedure for foreigners).
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The bank charges a small commission (usually 25-150 dirhams) for issuing the check.
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A check cannot be “voided” or cashed for any purpose other than its intended purpose.
Result
A manager check in the UAE is a bank-guaranteed payment instrument that replaces cash in real estate transactions, rentals, and large contracts.
If you’re looking to buy an apartment, villa, or condo in Dubai, be prepared to pay via manager’s check. This is reliable, convenient, and secure for both the buyer and the developer.
