Buying Property in Dubai as a Foreigner: The Complete Guide

Yes. Foreigners can buy freehold property in Dubai in designated areas, and have been able to since 2002. You do not need residency, a visa or a local partner, and there is no minimum spend. Budget 7 to 10 percent on top of the purchase price for fees.

You own the property outright and it passes to your heirs. What changes by nationality is not your right to buy, but which areas are open to you. Figures current as of September 2026.

What does it cost on top of the price?

On a AED 1.5 million apartment bought without a mortgage, that is roughly AED 60,000 in DLD fees, about AED 4,200 to the trustee, and around AED 31,500 in commission including VAT. Our guide to DLD fees breaks each one down.

Where can a foreigner actually buy?

In designated freehold areas, which cover most of the districts an overseas buyer would consider: Dubai Marina, Downtown Dubai, Palm Jumeirah, Jumeirah Village Circle, Business Bay, Dubai Hills Estate, Emaar South, Dubai Creek Harbour and many more. Outside those areas, ownership is leasehold, typically for 99 years, or restricted to UAE and GCC nationals. The distinction is explained in our guide to freehold property and what you actually own.

Do I need a visa or residency to buy?

No. Buying is open to non residents, and you can complete the purchase on a visit visa or, in many cases, without setting foot in the country by giving someone power of attorney. Property ownership can lead to residency rather than the other way round: an investment of AED 2 million or more can qualify for a ten year Golden Visa.

Can a non resident get a mortgage?

Yes, though on tighter terms than a resident. Expect to put down 20 to 25 percent as a resident and closer to 35 to 50 percent as a non resident, with a shorter term and a higher rate. Banks will want proof of income, six months of statements and a valuation. Not every bank lends to non residents, so establish that before you agree a price.

What is the process, step by step?

• Agree the price and sign a Form F, the standard sale contract, with a deposit of usually 10 percent.
• If the seller has a mortgage, they clear it and obtain a liability letter.
• Apply to the developer for a No Objection Certificate, which confirms service charges are settled.
• Meet at a DLD registration trustee office, pay the fees, and the title deed transfers the same day.

A straightforward cash purchase takes about four weeks from Form F to title deed. A mortgage adds two to four weeks.

Does buying property give you residency?

It can, though it is a consequence of buying rather than a condition of it. Property ownership can qualify you for a UAE residence visa, and an investment of AED 2 million or more can qualify for the ten year Golden Visa, subject to the criteria in force at the time. Buy first, then apply. Nobody needs a visa to complete a purchase.

Two things overseas buyers usually want confirmed: there is no annual property tax in Dubai, and you can repatriate both rental income and sale proceeds in full.

What is the difference between freehold and leasehold?

Freehold means you own the property and the land under it outright, forever, with your name on a title deed issued by the Dubai Land Department. You can sell it, let it or leave it to your heirs. Leasehold gives you the right to use a property for a fixed term, usually up to 99 years, after which it reverts to the freeholder. Almost every community an overseas buyer would consider is freehold, but confirm it on the specific unit rather than assuming it from the area.

What do buyers most often get wrong?

• Not checking the developer's track record and handover history, which matters most on off plan. Our own data shows how often a stated handover date moves.
• Overlooking service charges. They vary enormously between buildings, they are the owner's cost and not the tenant's, and they come straight off your net yield.
• Using an unregistered agent. Always work with a RERA registered brokerage, and ask for the number.
• Budgeting for the price and forgetting the 7 to 10 percent of fees that sits on top of it.

What should I check before I commit?

Ask for the service charge history, not just the current rate, because that is your ongoing cost and it is not passed to a tenant. Check for arrears, which follow the property. On off plan, confirm the escrow account and the handover date in writing. See how service charges work before you calculate your yield.

If you would like a second opinion on a specific unit, talk to us, or browse Dubai communities to compare areas first.