How to Buy Property in Dubai as a Foreigner

Short answer: Foreigners can buy freehold property in Dubai's designated zones. The usual steps are: set a budget, choose a community, verify the agent and property, agree a price and sign a sale agreement with a deposit, arrange financing, then complete the transfer at the Dubai Land Department (DLD). Plan for fees on top of the price.

Can foreigners buy property in Dubai?

Yes, in designated freehold areas, with title registered at the Dubai Land Department. Check that the specific building or community is in a freehold zone before making an offer.

Steps to buy real estate in Dubai

1. Set your budget including fees and, if borrowing, monthly payments. Use the Dubai mortgage calculator.
2. Choose ready or off-plan. Ready units transfer immediately; off-plan follows a developer payment plan. See the risks.
3. Find properties by browsing listings or asking Bellokey's assistant for a shortlist by area and budget.
4. Verify the agent and listing. See how to verify agents and listings.
5. Agree the price and sign the sale agreement with a deposit, normally held in a regulated way.
6. Arrange financing or prepare funds, and obtain any required approvals.
7. Complete the transfer at the DLD and receive the title deed (or register the off-plan contract).

What does it cost to buy property in Dubai?

• DLD registration fee: 4% of the sale contract value under Executive Council Resolution No. 30 of 2013, commonly paid by the buyer. DLD's service page for initial (off-plan) sales lists 2% each for seller and purchaser, so confirm which applies and who pays.
• Agency commission: often around 2%.
• Mortgage registration: around 0.25% of the loan if you finance.
• Other items: trustee and administrative fees, valuation and bank fees, and ongoing service charges.

Figures can change, so confirm them with the DLD or your lawyer before you commit.

Do you need a mortgage?

Many buyers pay cash, but banks lend to eligible non-residents and residents. Loan limits and terms depend on the bank and your profile. For general background see our international mortgage guide.

Golden Visa and property

Property investment of AED 2 million or more can qualify an owner for a long-term residency visa, subject to the authority's conditions at the time. Check current requirements with the official source.

Next steps

Read the Dubai investment guide and the Dubai city guide. This article is general information, not legal or financial advice.

Sources

• Executive Council Resolution No. (30) of 2013 on Land Department fees
• Dubai Land Department FAQ
• DLD: Golden Visa application (investor)

Frequently asked questions

Can foreigners buy property in Dubai?

Yes. Foreigners can buy freehold property in designated zones, with title registered at the Dubai Land Department.

How much does it cost to buy property in Dubai?

Expect the 4% DLD transfer fee (commonly paid by the buyer), around 2% agency commission, mortgage registration of about 0.25% of the loan if financed, plus smaller administrative fees. Confirm current figures before buying.

How do I invest in Dubai real estate?

Set a budget, choose an area and property type, verify the agent and property, sign a sale agreement, arrange financing and complete the transfer at the Dubai Land Department.

Do I need to live in Dubai to buy property?

No. Non-residents can buy in freehold zones, but financing options and documentation requirements can differ.

Does buying property give me a Golden Visa?

Property investment of AED 2 million or more can qualify for a long-term visa, subject to the authority’s current conditions.