Frequently Asked Questions
Can foreigners buy property in Dubai?
Yes. Foreigners can buy freehold property in designated areas, meaning they have full ownership rights.
What are the most popular areas to buy property in Dubai?
Some top areas include Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah, Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC), Business Bay, and Dubai Hills Estate.
Is there a property tax in Dubai?
No annual property tax is charged, but there is a one-time Dubai Land Department (DLD) fee of 4% of the property value during purchase.
What is the process to buy property in Dubai?
- Choose a property
- Sign the Sales Agreement (Form F)
- Pay the deposit (usually 10%)
- Apply for NOC from the developer
- Transfer ownership at the DLD office
For Off-Plan Properties:
- Select the project and unit from an approved developer
- Sign the Sales & Purchase Agreement (SPA)
- Pay the initial booking amount (often 5–20%)
- Follow the agreed payment plan (linked to construction milestones)
- Receive handover upon completion
Can I get a mortgage in Dubai as a foreigner?
Yes, but foreigners can usually get financing of up to 50% of the property price, depending on income and bank requirements.
What is the minimum investment to get a UAE Golden Visa through property?
As of now, an investment of AED 2 million or more in real estate qualifies you for a 10-year Golden Visa.
Are there service charges for properties in Dubai?
Yes. Service charges cover maintenance, security, and communal facilities. They vary depending on property type and location.
Can I rent out my property?
Absolutely. You can rent it long-term or short-term (holiday homes), provided you register with the Dubai Tourism authorities for short stays.
Is buying off-plan property safe in Dubai?
Yes, if you buy from a registered developer approved by the Dubai Land Department. Payments are made to an escrow account for security.
Do property prices in Dubai appreciate over time?
Historically, prices have fluctuated, but Dubai’s growing economy, tourism, and infrastructure projects contribute to long-term value growth.
Do I need to be a resident to buy property in Dubai?
No, you don’t need UAE residency to purchase property. Ownership rights are available to both residents and non-residents.
Can I buy property in Dubai with cryptocurrency?
Some developers accept cryptocurrency through approved payment gateways, but the transaction is ultimately processed in AED.
What’s the difference between freehold and leasehold property?
- Freehold: You own the property and the land it stands on indefinitely.
- Leasehold: You lease the property for a fixed term (up to 99 years) and then it reverts back to the original owner.
How long does it take to complete a property purchase?
It typically takes 30 to 40 days for ready properties, depending on financing, paperwork, and approvals.
Are there hidden costs when buying property?
Besides the DLD 4% fee, expect:
- Agency fee for secondary market purchases (usually 2% of purchase price)
- Mortgage registration fee (0.25% of loan amount)
- Trustee office fees (approx. AED 4,000)
- Service charges (annual)
What are the benefits of buying off-plan property?
- Lower prices compared to ready units
- Flexible payment plans
- Potential capital appreciation before handover
Can I resell an off-plan property before completion?
Yes, but only after paying a certain percentage of the purchase price (varies by developer, usually 30–40%).
How is rental yield in Dubai compared to other cities?
Dubai offers some of the highest rental yields globally—often between 7%–10%, depending on location and property type.
What happens if I miss mortgage payments?
The bank may impose penalties, restructure your loan, or in extreme cases, repossess the property through legal channels.