Buy Property in DubaiA Foreign Investor's Guide
Everything you need to know about buying property in Dubai as a foreigner: freehold zones, DLD fees, payment plans, Golden Visa eligibility, and step-by-step process.
How to Buy Property in Dubai — 4 Simple Steps
1. Choose Your Property
Compare off-plan and ready projects from the main UAE developers with a RERA-licensed advisor, by video or on site.
2. Reserve Your Unit
Secure your unit with a reservation deposit set by the developer. Most developers accept international bank transfers.
3. Flexible Payment Plan
Pay in installments during construction, with construction-linked or post-handover plans depending on the project.
4. DLD Registration & Title Deed
Register your property with the Dubai Land Department, which sets the registration fees, and receive your title deed (or Oqood for off-plan).
Can Foreigners Buy Property in Dubai?
Yes. Foreign nationals can buy freehold property in designated areas of Dubai, under rules set by the Dubai Land Department.
Any nationality can buy freehold property in designated areas
No residency requirement — buy remotely from anywhere
Property investment can open the way to a UAE Golden Visa (conditions set by the UAE authorities)
No personal income tax in the UAE (check the rules of your own country of tax residence)
Full foreign ownership allowed in freehold zones
Every sale is registered with the Dubai Land Department
Dubai Property Purchase Fees & Costs
The main costs involved in buying property in Dubai. Official fees are set by the Dubai Land Department: check the current amounts in the DLD fees guide before you buy.
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| DLD registration fee | Set by the Dubai Land Department |
| Registration trustee / admin fees | Set by the Dubai Land Department |
| Oqood registration (off-plan) | Set by the Dubai Land Department |
| Agency fee | Usually none on off-plan; agreed with the agency on resale |
| Developer NOC (resale) | Set by the developer |
| Mortgage registration | Set by the Dubai Land Department |
Know Someone Interested in Dubai Property?
Earn 1% to 3% of the property price by referring buyers: the sale is handled by Cevitas Real Estate LLC, a RERA-licensed brokerage. Open to anyone, from any country. No license required. Free to join. Paid in AED.
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