Buying Property in Dubai from Overseas

You can buy property in Dubai without ever setting foot here. Overseas buyers do it routinely, either by travelling once for the transfer or by appointing someone through a power of attorney.

There is no residency requirement, no restriction by nationality in freehold areas, and no property tax. What there is, is paperwork.

Two ways to buy remotely

The power of attorney route

A POA lets a named person sign on your behalf. To be valid in Dubai it usually must be:

1. Drafted specifically for the property transaction, naming the powers granted
2. Notarised in your country
3. Attested by the UAE embassy or consulate there
4. Attested again by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs
5. Legally translated into Arabic

Allow two to four weeks. Start it early rather than when a deal is agreed, because a seller will not wait indefinitely.

Paying from abroad

Funds are transferred internationally to the escrow account for off-plan, or via manager's cheque at the trustee office for a resale. Banks will ask about source of funds, so have documentation ready. Currency movement between agreement and transfer is your risk, not the seller's.

Getting a mortgage as a non-resident

Possible, at lower loan-to-value: typically 50 to 60 percent, meaning a deposit of 40 to 50 percent plus the purchase costs in cash. Our guide to mortgages in Dubai sets out what banks require.

After you buy

If the property will be let, someone has to hold keys, meet tenants and handle maintenance. Most overseas owners appoint a managing agent. If it will sit empty, remember service charges and DEWA still run.

What to be careful about

• Only buy in freehold areas if you want outright ownership.
• Verify the escrow account independently on off-plan. See checking a developer.
• Have someone inspect before handover. See snagging.
• Budget the full purchase costs, 6 to 8 percent, in our fees guide.

Buying from abroad

We work with overseas buyers regularly and can view on your behalf, film walkthroughs and manage the transfer. Tell us what you are looking for, or browse homes for sale.