Can you buy property in Dubai as a foreigner?
Yes. Foreign nationals can buy freehold property in designated areas of Dubai under Law No. 7 of 2006. You don't need to live in the UAE to buy, and you can complete the purchase from abroad through a power of attorney.
Ready vs off-plan
| Ready property | Off-plan property | |
|---|---|---|
| Ownership record | Title deed on transfer | Oqood certificate, then title deed at handover |
| Payment | In full at transfer (or with a mortgage) | Staged under a developer payment plan |
| Main risks | Hidden mortgages, service charge arrears, defects | Delays, changes to specification, developer default |
| Key protection | Title and NOC checks before transfer | Registered project, escrow account and Oqood registration |
Step by step: buying a ready property
- Set your budget, including about 7–8% of the price for fees and commission.
- Agree terms and sign the memorandum of understanding (Form F). A 10% deposit is usual.
- Run legal checks on the title, the seller and any mortgage. Conveyancing →
- Seller obtains the developer NOC confirming no service charges are outstanding.
- Arrange your mortgage, if you're borrowing.
- Transfer at a DLD trustee office. Pay the fees and the balance; the title deed is issued in your name. Title deed →
Step by step: buying off-plan
- Check the developer and project are registered with RERA and have an escrow account.
- Review the sale and purchase agreement (SPA) before signing. Pay close attention to the completion date, delay penalties and changes to specification.
- Pay the booking deposit and the 4% Oqood registration fee.
- Get your Oqood certificate. Oqood guide →
- Pay instalments into the escrow account, as the payment plan requires.
- Take handover and receive your title deed.
Costs to budget for
| Cost | Typical amount |
|---|---|
| DLD transfer or Oqood fee | 4% of the price |
| Title deed and admin fees | About AED 580 |
| Trustee office fee (ready property) | AED 4,000 + VAT (AED 2,000 + VAT under AED 500,000) |
| Agent commission | Usually 2% + VAT |
| Mortgage registration (if financed) | 0.25% of the loan + admin fee |
All figures are approximate and set by the DLD or agreed in the market. (Oliva)
The Golden Visa
Owning property valued at AED 2 million or more can make you eligible for the UAE's 10-year Golden Visa. Mortgaged and off-plan property can qualify, subject to conditions. Check the current rules before you buy if the visa is part of your plan. (Ministry of Economy and Tourism)
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a lawyer to buy property in Dubai?
It isn't required by law. A lawyer is most valuable before you pay the deposit, when problems can still be avoided.
Is there property tax in Dubai?
There is no annual property tax on residential property. You pay the one-off 4% DLD fee on purchase and ongoing service charges.
Can I buy in a company name?
Yes, through eligible company structures. This can help with succession and joint ownership. Ask us about the right structure for you.
Buying in Dubai? Call +971 50 423 1108 for a pre-purchase legal check.