Dubai is one of the easiest places in the world for foreigners to buy property. You don't need to be a UAE resident, and you can complete the whole purchase remotely.
Where can foreigners buy?
Foreign nationals can buy freehold property, with full ownership, in designated areas. These include most of Dubai's popular communities, such as Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah, Business Bay, JVC and Dubai Hills Estate.
The buying process for ready property
- Set your budget and goals. Decide whether you're buying for rental income, capital growth, a home or a Golden Visa.
- Shortlist and view. In person or by video tour.
- Agree the price and sign the MOU. The memorandum of understanding (Form F) sets out the terms, usually with a 10% deposit cheque.
- Developer NOC. The developer confirms the seller has no outstanding charges.
- Transfer. Ownership transfers at a Dubai Land Department trustee office, and the new title deed is issued in your name.
The process for off-plan property
For new projects you reserve a unit with a booking amount, sign the developer's SPA, register the unit with Oqood and pay in instalments until handover. Read how buying off-plan in Dubai works.
What does it cost?
- Dubai Land Department fee: 4% of the purchase price, plus registration and trustee fees.
- Agency fee: usually around 2% on ready and resale property. Off-plan purchases are normally commission-free for the buyer.
- Mortgage costs, if you finance the purchase.
- Service charges: annual community fees, which vary by project.
There's no annual property tax in Dubai.
Worked example: costs on an AED 2 million apartment
Here's roughly what a cash buyer should budget on top of the price for a ready apartment in Dubai.
| Cost | Approximate amount |
|---|---|
| Dubai Land Department fee (4%) | AED 80,000 |
| Title deed registration fee | About AED 4,000 plus VAT |
| Trustee office fee | About AED 4,000 plus VAT |
| Agency fee (around 2%) | About AED 40,000 plus VAT |
| Developer NOC | Varies by developer, often AED 500 to AED 5,000 |
| Total on top of the price | Roughly AED 130,000, or about 6.5% |
Approximate figures for illustration. Off-plan purchases are usually commission-free, and I'll give you an exact breakdown for any property.
Documents you'll need
- A valid passport copy (and Emirates ID if you're a UAE resident)
- Proof of address and contact details
- For mortgages: income proof, bank statements and the lender's KYC documents
- For companies: trade licence, memorandum of association and a board resolution
Can I get a mortgage as a non-resident?
Yes. Several UAE banks lend to non-residents, usually with a lower loan-to-value than for residents. Getting pre-approval first makes negotiation easier.
Buying from overseas
Many of my clients buy without visiting. We work over WhatsApp and Zoom, with virtual tours and digital signing, and a power of attorney can handle the final steps if needed.
Owning property in Dubai: what comes after
Service charges. Owners pay annual service charges for building and community maintenance, usually quoted per square foot. They vary widely, so compare them before you buy, especially if you're investing for rental income.
Renting it out. Long-term leases must be registered through Ejari. Short-term holiday lets need a holiday home permit from Dubai's tourism authority, and some buildings don't allow them. See my property management service if you'd like the letting handled for you.
Residency. Property worth AED 2 million or more can qualify you for the 10-year Golden Visa. Read the Golden Visa guide.
Common mistakes foreign buyers make
- Budgeting for the price but not the 4% DLD fee and other costs.
- Choosing a building without checking its service charges and rental rules.
- Sending money outside official channels. Off-plan payments should go into the project's escrow account.
- Buying off-plan without checking the developer's delivery record.
- Assuming the rules are the same in every emirate. Abu Dhabi's fees and processes differ, as explained in how to buy off-plan in Abu Dhabi.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to be a UAE resident to buy property in Dubai?
No. Non-residents can buy freehold property in designated areas and complete the purchase remotely.
How much are the fees when buying property in Dubai?
Budget around 4% for the Dubai Land Department fee plus registration and trustee fees, and around 2% agency fee on ready property. Off-plan is usually commission-free for buyers.
How long does it take to buy a ready property in Dubai?
Cash purchases can complete within a few weeks once the developer NOC is issued. Mortgage purchases take longer because of bank approval and valuation.
Can I buy property in Dubai without visiting?
Yes. Many buyers purchase remotely using video viewings, digital signing and, where needed, a power of attorney.
Is there property tax in Dubai?
There is no annual property tax in Dubai. Owners pay annual service charges to maintain their building and community.
RERA-licensed real estate consultant at Aeon & Trisl, specialising in off-plan and investment property, with AED 600M+ in closed deals and 100+ clients worldwide.