Service charges in Dubai properties range significantly depending on building type and amenities. Standard apartments typically charge 12-18 AED/sqft annually, while luxury towers with extensive facilities can reach 35-45 AED/sqft. These fees cover maintenance, security, and common area upkeep, but often exclude AC servicing. Older buildings (10+ years) frequently implement special assessments for major repairs, adding unexpected costs. Before purchasing, review the building's maintenance history and reserve fund status through the owners' association. Some developments offer initial fee caps that expire after 2-3 years. For detailed service charge comparisons, Emirates.Estate provides comprehensive community profiles.