Foreigners can buy freehold property in Dubai in designated areas established under Law No. 7 of 2006 and Regulation No. 3 of 2006, with registration managed by the Dubai Land Department (DLD). The standard transfer fee is 4% of the purchase price, and the full process for a ready property typically takes two to six weeks from signing the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to receiving the title deed. No UAE residency or visa is required to complete a purchase, and buyers of all nationalities may acquire full ownership rights in freehold zones.
This guide covers the legal framework for foreign ownership, designated freehold areas, the step-by-step purchase process, all applicable fees, required documents, mortgage options for non-residents, property-linked visa pathways, and the key differences between off-plan and ready properties. Whether purchasing remotely or while residing in Dubai, foreign buyers will find every procedural detail needed to complete a property transaction with full regulatory compliance.
Can Foreigners Buy Property in Dubai?
Yes. Foreign nationals of any nationality can purchase freehold property in Dubai within designated zones, without restriction on residency status. This right was established by Law No. 7 of 2006 concerning Real Property Registration in the Emirate of Dubai, which grants non-UAE and non-GCC nationals the right to own freehold interests, usufruct rights, or leasehold rights for up to 99 years in areas designated by the Ruler of Dubai.
A valid passport is required, and buyers must be at least 21 years of age. No prior government approval is needed for purchases within freehold zones. Foreign buyers receive a title deed registered with the DLD, granting full ownership rights including the ability to sell, lease, mortgage, or bequeath the property.
It is important to understand the three types of ownership available to foreign nationals:
| Ownership Type | Rights Granted | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Freehold | Full ownership of property and land | Permanent |
| Leasehold | Right to use property; no land ownership | Up to 99 years |
| Usufruct | Right to use and benefit; no title ownership | Up to 99 years |
Common Misconception: Many prospective buyers assume a UAE visa is required before purchasing property. This is incorrect. Non-residents can buy freehold property while living abroad and visiting on a tourist visa. Purchasing property does not automatically grant residency — a separate visa application through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) or the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) is required.
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Where Can Foreigners Buy Property in Dubai?
Foreigners may only purchase property in DLD-designated freehold zones, as stipulated by Regulation No. 3 of 2006. Over 40 areas across Dubai are designated for foreign freehold ownership, covering the majority of the city's most prominent residential and commercial developments.
| Category | Freehold Areas | Approximate Price Range (AED/sq ft) |
|---|---|---|
| Premium / Waterfront | Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah, JBR, Bluewaters Island | 1,800–4,500 |
| Central / Urban | Downtown Dubai, Business Bay, DIFC, City Walk | 1,500–3,500 |
| Family Communities | Dubai Hills Estate, Arabian Ranches, Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC) | 800–1,800 |
| Emerging / Affordable | Dubai South, International City, Dubai Silicon Oasis | 500–1,000 |
Update 2025: The DLD announced in January 2025 that private property owners along Sheikh Zayed Road (from the Trade Centre Roundabout to the Dubai Water Canal) and in Al Jaddaf can now convert their ownership status to freehold. A total of 457 plots — 128 along Sheikh Zayed Road and 329 in Al Jaddaf — are eligible for conversion to freehold ownership, open to all nationalities.
Older areas of Dubai, including Deira, Al Karama, and Bur Dubai, remain classified as non-freehold zones. Foreigners cannot acquire freehold title in these districts, although leasehold arrangements may be available in some cases.
Buyers can verify whether a specific property falls within a designated freehold zone through the Dubai REST app, the official digital platform of the DLD.
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Step-by-Step Process to Buy Property in Dubai as a Foreigner
The property purchase process in Dubai follows a structured sequence regulated by the DLD and the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA). For ready properties, the timeline from signing the MOU to receiving the title deed is typically two to six weeks.
Step 1 — Prepare Finances and Obtain Mortgage Pre-Approval
Cash buyers must provide proof of funds, typically in the form of a bank statement. Buyers intending to finance the purchase should obtain mortgage pre-approval from a UAE bank before searching for property. Pre-approval typically takes three to seven working days and confirms the buyer's borrowing capacity.
For non-residents, the maximum loan-to-value (LTV) ratio is generally 50–65%, meaning a down payment of 35–50% is required. UAE residents can typically access LTV ratios of 75–80% for properties valued under AED 5 million.
Step 2 — Find Property and Verify Ownership
Work with a RERA-licensed broker. Before committing, verify the title deed authenticity through the DLD and check the property's service charge history using the Mollak portal. This step is essential to confirm that the seller is the registered owner and that no outstanding service charges exist.
Step 3 — Sign the MOU (Form F) and Pay Deposit
The buyer and seller sign a Memorandum of Understanding (Form F), which specifies the agreed price, terms, and completion date. A standard deposit of 10% of the purchase price is paid by the buyer at this stage.
Step 4 — Obtain Developer NOC (eNOC)
The seller requests a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the developer, confirming no outstanding service charges or obligations on the property. Processing typically takes three to five working days and can be initiated through the Dubai REST app. NOC fees vary by developer, generally ranging from AED 500 to AED 5,000.
Pro Tip: Request the NOC before finalising the MOU timeline, as some developers may take longer than five working days. Delays in NOC issuance are one of the most common causes of transfer postponements.
Step 5 — Transfer at DLD Trustee Office
Both the buyer and the seller (or their Power of Attorney holders) attend a DLD-authorised trustee office. The buyer pays the remaining balance plus all applicable fees via manager's cheque. Once payment is confirmed, the DLD issues a new title deed in the buyer's name.
EGSH operates as a DLD-authorised trustee office and can facilitate the transfer process, including documentation verification and fee settlement, on behalf of buyers who are overseas.
Step 6 — Post-Transfer Steps
After receiving the title deed, the new owner must register with the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) for utility connections and update the owners' association records for the property.
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Documents Required to Buy Property in Dubai as a Foreigner
All documentation must be prepared before the transfer appointment. Missing paperwork is one of the most frequent causes of transfer delays at trustee offices.
| Document | All Foreign Buyers | UAE Residents (Additional) | Mortgage Buyers (Additional) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Valid passport (copy) | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Proof of funds (bank statement) | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Emirates ID (copy) | — | ✓ | ✓ |
| UAE residence visa page (copy) | — | ✓ | ✓ |
| Mortgage pre-approval letter | — | — | ✓ |
| Salary certificate / income proof | — | — | ✓ |
| Bank statements (6 months) | — | — | ✓ |
At the transfer appointment, the buyer must present the original passport and manager's cheques for the balance payment and DLD fees.
Remote Purchase via Power of Attorney (POA): Buyers purchasing from abroad can appoint a representative through a notarised Power of Attorney. The POA must be in Arabic, attested by the UAE Embassy in the buyer's country of residence, and legalised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) in the UAE. The POA holder must present a valid Emirates ID at the trustee office.
What Are the Costs of Buying Property on Instalments in Dubai?
Beyond the property price itself, buyers must account for several mandatory government fees and administrative charges. Developer instalment plans are typically interest-free, unlike bank mortgages.
| Fee Type | Amount | When Paid |
|---|---|---|
| DLD Registration Fee | 4% of property value | At SPA signing / Oqood registration |
| Knowledge Fee | AED 10 | With DLD fee |
| Innovation Fee | AED 10 | With DLD fee |
| Trustee / Registration Fee | AED 2,000 + 5% VAT (under AED 500,000) or AED 4,000 + 5% VAT (above AED 500,000) | At property transfer |
| Title Deed Fee | AED 250 | At handover |
| Property Map Fee | AED 250 | At handover |
| Admin Fee | AED 580 (apartments and offices) | At transfer |
As a general planning guideline, buyers should set aside approximately 7–8% of the property value to cover all government fees and administrative charges associated with an off-plan instalment purchase.
How Much Does It Cost to Buy Property in Dubai?
Total transaction costs for buying property in Dubai typically range from 7% to 9% of the purchase price, including government fees, trustee charges, and agent commission.
Government Fees
| Fee Type | Amount | Paid To |
|---|---|---|
| DLD Transfer Fee | 4% of purchase price | DLD |
| Title Deed Issuance Fee | AED 580 (apartments/offices) | DLD |
| DLD Administrative Fee | AED 40–580 (varies by property type) | DLD |
Trustee and Registration Fees
| Fee Type | Amount | Condition |
|---|---|---|
| Trustee Fee | AED 4,000 + 5% VAT | Properties over AED 500,000 |
| Trustee Fee | AED 2,000 + 5% VAT | Properties under AED 500,000 |
Agent Commission
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Buyer's Agent Commission | 2% of purchase price + 5% VAT |
Mortgage-Related Fees (If Applicable)
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Mortgage Registration Fee | 0.25% of loan amount + AED 290 |
| Bank Processing Fee | 0.5–1% of loan amount |
| Property Valuation Fee | AED 2,500–3,500 |
Example Calculation — AED 2,000,000 Property (Cash Purchase)
| Fee | Amount (AED) |
|---|---|
| DLD Transfer Fee (4%) | 80,000 |
| Trustee Fee (+ VAT) | 4,200 |
| Title Deed Issuance | 580 |
| Agent Commission (2% + VAT) | 42,000 |
| Total Estimated Fees | 126,780 (~6.3% of purchase price) |
All fees are subject to change. Buyers should confirm current fee schedules with the DLD before proceeding.
Can Foreigners Get a Mortgage to Buy Dubai Property?
Yes. Several UAE banks offer mortgage products to non-residents purchasing property in designated freehold areas. Lending conditions for non-residents are generally stricter than for UAE residents.
| Condition | Non-Residents | UAE Residents |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum LTV (properties under AED 5M) | 50–65% | 75–80% |
| Minimum Down Payment | 35–50% | 20–25% |
| Typical Interest Rates | 4.5–6.5% | 3.5–5.5% |
| Maximum Loan Tenure | Up to 25 years | Up to 25 years |
| Pre-Approval Timeframe | 3–7 working days | 3–7 working days |
Non-residents typically need to provide a valid passport, proof of income or salary certificate, six months of bank statements, and existing liability statements. The property must be located in a designated freehold zone and meet the lending bank's criteria for eligible developments.
Mortgaged property can still qualify for the Golden Visa, provided the total property value meets the AED 2 million threshold, as assessed by the DLD. The previous requirement for a minimum AED 1 million down payment was removed in 2024, broadening eligibility for mortgage holders.
Property-Linked Visas for Foreign Buyers
Purchasing property in Dubai does not automatically grant residency. However, property owners can apply for a residence visa through the GDRFA or ICP, depending on the value of their investment.
| Visa Type | Minimum Investment | Duration | Mortgage Permitted | Key Condition |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Property Investor Visa (Taskeen) | AED 750,000 | 2 years (renewable) | Yes (min. 50% down payment) | Property must be completed |
| Golden Visa | AED 2,000,000 | 10 years (renewable) | Yes (total value must meet AED 2M) | Title deed or DLD valuation required |
Key points for visa applicants:
- The Golden Visa allows holders to sponsor family members, including spouse, children of any age, and parents, without requiring a national sponsor.
- Off-plan properties may be eligible for the Golden Visa once registered with the DLD, provided the project is at least 50% complete and at least 50% of the purchase price has been paid.
- Applications for both visa categories are submitted through the GDRFA in Dubai or the ICP at federal level.
- Multiple properties can be combined to meet the AED 2 million threshold, provided each is registered under the applicant's name with an individual title deed.
Off-Plan vs. Ready Property for Foreign Buyers
Foreign buyers in Dubai can purchase both ready (completed) properties and off-plan developments from RERA-registered developers. Each option carries distinct advantages and considerations.
| Factor | Ready Property | Off-Plan Property |
|---|---|---|
| Possession | Immediate | Upon handover (1–4 years) |
| Title Deed | Issued at transfer | Oqood certificate during construction |
| Payment Structure | 10% deposit + balance at transfer | Developer payment plans (e.g., 60/40, 80/20) |
| Rental Income | Immediate | Only after handover |
| Timeline to Completion | 2–6 weeks | 1–4 years |
| Entry Price | Higher upfront cost | Lower initial payment |
Protections for Off-Plan Buyers:
Off-plan purchases in Dubai are regulated under Law No. 8 of 2007 on Escrow Accounts, which requires all buyer payments to be deposited into DLD-supervised escrow accounts. Developers must be RERA-registered and must provide a completion guarantee before launching sales. The escrow system protects buyer funds in the event that a developer fails to deliver the project.
Off-plan properties are registered through the Oqood system, the DLD's registration platform for properties under construction. The Oqood registration fee is approximately 4% of the property value.
Common Mistakes Foreign Buyers Make
Foreign buyers unfamiliar with Dubai's property market may encounter avoidable complications during the purchase process. The following are the most frequently observed errors:
- Not verifying title deed authenticity. Failing to confirm ownership through the DLD before signing an MOU exposes the buyer to the risk of fraud. Always verify through official DLD channels or the Dubai REST app.
- Skipping the service charge check. Outstanding service charge arrears must be cleared before transfer. Buyers should check the property's service charge history through the Mollak portal before committing.
- Working with an unlicensed broker. Only RERA-licensed brokers are legally authorised to facilitate property transactions in Dubai. Engaging an unlicensed agent offers no legal protection in the event of a dispute.
- Buying in a non-freehold area. Foreigners cannot obtain a freehold title deed in non-designated areas. Always confirm that the property is within a freehold zone before proceeding.
- Not budgeting for all transaction fees. The total cost of buying extends beyond the purchase price. Buyers should budget 7–9% of the property value for fees, including the 4% DLD transfer fee, trustee charges, and agent commission.
- Missing mortgage pre-approval. Buyers intending to finance the purchase should obtain mortgage pre-approval before signing the MOU. Delays in securing financing can result in losing the property or forfeiting the deposit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a UAE visa to buy property in Dubai?
No. Foreigners can purchase freehold property in Dubai without holding a UAE visa. Non-residents regularly buy property while living abroad. Residency is a separate matter — buyers can apply for a property investor visa or Golden Visa after completing the purchase, subject to meeting the relevant investment threshold.
Can I buy property in Dubai remotely from abroad?
Yes. Foreign buyers can purchase property remotely by appointing a representative through a notarised Power of Attorney (POA). The POA must be in Arabic, attested by the UAE Embassy in the buyer's country, and legalised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) in the UAE.
What is the minimum investment to buy property in Dubai?
There is no legal minimum purchase price for foreign buyers. In practice, studio apartments in affordable freehold areas such as International City and Dubai Silicon Oasis are available from approximately AED 400,000–500,000.
How long does the Dubai property purchase process take?
For ready properties, the process from signing the MOU to receiving the title deed typically takes two to six weeks. For off-plan properties, the timeline depends on the construction schedule, typically one to four years until handover.
Is there property tax in Dubai?
Dubai does not impose annual property tax. The one-time 4% DLD transfer fee is paid at the point of purchase. Property owners are responsible for annual service charges (maintenance fees) set by the owners' association. Landlords renting out property are subject to a 5% housing fee on the annual rental value, collected through DEWA bills.
Can I rent out my property in Dubai?
Yes. Property owners may rent out their units after registering the tenancy contract with Ejari, which is mandatory for all residential leases in Dubai. For short-term rentals (holiday homes), a permit from the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) is required.
What happens to my Dubai property if I pass away?
For non-Muslim property owners, UAE Sharia-based inheritance rules may apply by default in the absence of a registered will. However, under Federal Decree-Law No. 41 of 2022, non-Muslims can now opt out of Sharia inheritance rules. Non-Muslim owners should register a will with the DIFC Wills and Probate Registry to ensure their property is distributed according to their wishes. DIFC Wills are available to non-Muslims aged 21 or over with assets in the UAE.
Can I get a refund if I cancel a property purchase?
The outcome depends on the contract terms and the stage of the transaction. After signing the MOU and paying the standard 10% deposit, the buyer may forfeit the deposit if the purchase is cancelled without a valid contractual reason. Buyers should review cancellation terms carefully before signing.
Explained by
Muneer Juma Al Balushi
Real Estate Registration Trustee Consultant at EGSH
Muneer Juma Al Balushi has six years of experience in the real estate registration system of the Dubai Land Department. He specialises in accurate, secure, and legally compliant property registration.
Official Sources and References
The following government authorities were cited in this article:
- Dubai Land Department (DLD) — Regulates property registration, ownership transfer, and real estate transactions in Dubai.
- Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) — Regulatory arm of the DLD responsible for broker licensing, escrow account supervision, and developer compliance.
- Dubai REST App — Official DLD digital platform for property services, including eNOC applications and freehold zone verification.
- Mollak Portal — DLD-affiliated system for service charge index and owners' association management.
- UAE Government Portal — Official UAE government information on foreign property ownership rights and residency regulations.
- General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) — Manages Golden Visa and property investor visa applications in Dubai.
- Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) — Federal authority responsible for visa and residency regulation across the UAE.
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) — Responsible for attestation and legalisation of documents, including Power of Attorney.
Important Notice
The information provided in this article is accurate to the best of EGSH's knowledge as of February 2026 and is intended for general guidance purposes only. Government fees, eligibility criteria, processing timelines, and regulatory requirements are subject to change without prior notice.
All property transactions in Dubai require final approval from the relevant government authority. EGSH facilitates applications through authorised departments but does not approve visas, issue title deeds, or make government decisions.
Prospective buyers are advised to verify all fees, requirements, and procedures directly with the Dubai Land Department, ICP, or GDRFA before proceeding with a property purchase. Professional legal and financial advice should be sought where appropriate.
