Dubai Property Guides | Buyers, Sellers, Tenants, Landlords, Investors, Mortgage

Steps to Buy

8 Steps

Timeline

4–8 Weeks

DLD Fee

4% of Price

Min Deposit

From 20%

Can Foreigners Buy Property in Dubai?

Yes. Dubai has designated freehold zones where expats, non-residents and foreign nationals can purchase property with full ownership rights. Popular freehold areas include Dubai Marina, Downtown Dubai, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Hills Estate, Dubailand (Living Legends, Falcon City, The Villa), and many more.

Step-by-Step Buying Process

Property Search

Define your budget, preferred community and property type. Use Bayut, Property Finder, or speak directly to UNIQ Real Estate for off-market options.

Property Viewing

Visit shortlisted properties. Our agents will accompany you and highlight key details — size, condition, service charges, and rental potential.

Make an Offer

Once you find the right property, submit an offer through your agent. Negotiation is normal — UNIQ will negotiate on your behalf.

Sign the MOU (Form F)

The Memorandum of Understanding is signed by buyer and seller, outlining the agreed price, terms and timeline. A 10% deposit is typically paid at this stage.

Apply for Mortgage (if needed)

If you are financing the purchase, your mortgage application is submitted to the bank. This runs in parallel with the NOC process.

NOC from Developer

The seller's developer issues a No Objection Certificate confirming no outstanding charges. UNIQ coordinates this on your behalf.

Transfer at DLD Trustee Office

Both parties attend a Dubai Land Department Trustee Office. All funds are transferred and the title deed changes hands.

Receive Your Title Deed

You are now the official owner. Your title deed is issued digitally via the DLD Dubai REST app or physically.

Costs to Budget For

DLD Transfer Fee: 4% of purchase price (DLD lists 2% buyer + 2% seller; the split is agreed in the sale contract)

Agent Commission: typically 2% of purchase price

Trustee Office Fee: AED 4,000 + VAT (properties of AED 500K or more)

New Title Deed: AED 250

Mortgage Registration: 0.25% of loan amount (if applicable)

Valuation Fee: AED 2,500–3,500 (if mortgage)

No capital gains tax in Dubai

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a UAE residence visa by buying property?

Yes. Under DLD's Golden Visa service, owners of property worth at least AED 2 million (in one or more properties) can apply for the 10-year renewable Golden Visa. Mortgaged property can qualify with a no-objection letter from the bank. Requirements can change, so confirm eligibility with DLD or ICP before you buy.

How long does the buying process take?

A cash purchase typically completes in 2–4 weeks. If you require a mortgage, allow 4–8 weeks. Off-plan handovers vary by developer and construction stage.

Do I need a lawyer to buy property in Dubai?

Not legally required, but having a conveyancer like UNIQ manage the process is strongly recommended. We handle contracts, NOC, DLD registration and bank coordination.

What is the difference between freehold and leasehold?

Freehold means you own the property and land outright with no expiry. Leasehold means you own the property for a set period (typically 99 years) but not the underlying land.

Commission

2% of Sale Price

Timeline

2–6 Weeks

Capital Gains Tax

NOC

Required

When Is the Right Time to Sell?

Dubai's property market moves in cycles. Useful indicators include recent DLD transaction volumes and prices for comparable homes, rental demand in your community, and new supply nearby. UNIQ provides a market valuation based on recent comparable sales to help you decide.

Step-by-Step Selling Process

Get a Valuation

UNIQ will assess your property against recent comparable sales in your community, current market conditions and your property's unique features.

List Your Property

Once you sign Form A (the DLD listing agreement), we obtain a DLD advertising permit for your property and list it on Bayut, Property Finder and our own website with professional photography. Every advert shows its permit number and Madmoun QR code.

Viewings

We manage all viewing requests, vet buyers for financial readiness, and handle all communication on your behalf.

Receive an Offer

Once a buyer is found, we present the offer and negotiate to achieve the best possible price for you.

Sign the MOU

Both parties sign the Memorandum of Understanding. The buyer typically pays a 10% deposit held securely.

Obtain NOC

We apply to your developer for a No Objection Certificate. This confirms no outstanding service charges and typically takes 5–15 working days.

Transfer at DLD

Both parties attend a Trustee Office. The title deed transfers, funds are released to you, and the sale is complete.

How UNIQ Markets Your Property

Listed on Bayut

Listed on Property Finder with premium placement

Featured on uniqrealty.co

WhatsApp updates to buyers who have opted in to hear from us

Social media promotion on Instagram

Introductions to registered buyers who have asked us to contact them

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there capital gains tax in Dubai?

No. Dubai has no capital gains tax, no income tax on rental income, and no inheritance tax. Your home country may tax gains or income, so check with a qualified tax adviser.

What is an NOC and how long does it take?

A No Objection Certificate is issued by your property developer confirming no outstanding service charges. It typically takes 5–15 working days and costs AED 500–5,000 depending on the developer.

Who pays the agent commission when selling?

In Dubai, the seller pays 2% agent commission and the buyer also pays 2% to their agent. Each party pays their own agent.

Can I sell a mortgaged property?

Yes. The existing mortgage is discharged at transfer using the buyer's funds. If the buyer is also using a mortgage, both banks coordinate the discharge and registration simultaneously.

Security Deposit

5% of Annual Rent

Ejari

Mandatory

Min Contract

1 Year

Notice Period

90 Days

How Renting Works in Dubai

Dubai has a well-regulated rental market governed by RERA (Real Estate Regulatory Authority). All tenancy contracts must be registered on the Ejari system, and rent increases are capped by the RERA Rental Index. As a tenant, you are protected by law with clear rights on deposits, notice periods and dispute resolution.

Step-by-Step Renting Process

Browse listings on Bayut or Property Finder, or contact UNIQ directly. Clearly define your budget, community preference, number of bedrooms and move-in date.

View Properties

Visit shortlisted properties. Check condition, parking, building facilities, proximity to schools and transport links.

Negotiate & Agree Terms

Agree the annual rent, number of cheques, and move-in date. Fewer cheques (e.g. 1 cheque) typically means a lower rent; more cheques gives the landlord less financial security so they may charge more.

Sign Tenancy Contract

Review the contract carefully. It should state the exact rent, cheque schedule, maintenance responsibilities and permitted use.

Pay Security Deposit & Cheques

Pay the security deposit (customarily 5% of annual rent unfurnished, 10% furnished — the law does not set an amount) and post-dated rent cheques. Agency fee is also paid at this stage.

Ejari Registration

Your tenancy contract must be registered on Ejari — Dubai's official rental registration system. Without Ejari you cannot set up DEWA (utilities). UNIQ handles this for you.

Move In

Collect keys, do a condition check of the property, note any existing damage in writing, and set up DEWA in your name.

Your Rights as a Tenant

Landlord cannot increase rent without 90 days written notice

Rent increases are capped by the RERA Rental Index

Your deposit is returned at the end of the tenancy, less agreed deductions for damage beyond normal wear and tear

At the end of the lease a landlord can ask you to leave only for specific legal reasons (sale, own or first-degree relative's use, demolition, major renovation) with at least 12 months' notice by notary public or registered mail

Disputes resolved via RERA Rental Disputes Centre

Ejari registration protects your tenancy legally

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Ejari?

Ejari is Dubai's mandatory tenancy registration system run by RERA. It legally records your tenancy contract and is required to set up utilities (DEWA), get internet and apply for a residence visa. Registering online through the Dubai REST app costs about AED 178 in total (AED 100 registration, AED 20 knowledge and innovation fees, a AED 55 service fee plus VAT). At a trustee centre it is around AED 220. Fees can change, so check DLD before paying.

Can my landlord increase my rent?

Yes, but only once per year and with 90 days written notice. The increase must comply with the RERA Rental Index — if the current rent is within 10% of the index value, no increase is permitted.

What happens to my deposit when I leave?

Your deposit should be returned at the end of the tenancy, minus any agreed deductions for damage beyond normal wear and tear. A signed condition report at move-in makes this straightforward; disputes go to the Rental Disputes Centre.

Can I sublet my apartment?

Only with explicit written permission from the landlord. Subletting without permission is a breach of contract and can result in eviction.

Notice to Change Terms

90 Days

Agency Fee

5% of Annual Rent

Ejari

Mandatory

Management

Available

How to Rent Out Your Property in Dubai

Renting out your Dubai property is a straightforward process with the right agent. Dubai's tenancy law gives landlords and tenants clear rules on contracts, renewals and disputes. UNIQ handles the entire process from valuation to Ejari registration.

Step-by-Step Process

Rental Valuation

UNIQ assesses your property's rental value against the RERA Rental Index and recent comparable lettings in your community.

Prepare the Property

Ensure the property is in good condition. Clean, repaint if needed, and fix any maintenance issues. Well-presented properties rent faster and at higher prices.

List & Market

We list on Bayut, Property Finder and our platform with professional photos. We target qualified tenants — families, professionals and long-term renters.

Vet Tenants

We screen all applicants — employment verification, visa status, rental history. You approve the final tenant.

Sign Tenancy Contract

A legally compliant tenancy agreement is prepared, signed by both parties, and witnessed.

Collect Deposit & Cheques

Security deposit (5%) and post-dated rent cheques are collected. We hand these to you along with the signed contract.

Ejari Registration

We register the tenancy on Ejari — legally protecting your rights as a landlord throughout the tenancy.

Why Use UNIQ for Property Management?

Tenant sourcing and thorough vetting

Contract preparation and Ejari registration

Rent collection and cheque management

Maintenance coordination with trusted contractors

Annual renewal negotiations

Full legal compliance — RERA regulated

Frequently Asked Questions

How much rent can I charge?

Rent should be benchmarked against the RERA Rental Index for your specific building and unit type. UNIQ provides a market appraisal to help you set the right rent — not too high (vacant property) and not too low (lost income).

How do I increase rent at renewal?

You can change the rent at renewal by giving at least 90 days' written notice before the contract ends. Under Decree No. 43 of 2013 the maximum increase depends on how far the current rent is below the RERA Rental Index average: if it is within 10% of the average, no increase is allowed; the cap then steps up through 5%, 10% and 15% to 20% where the rent is more than 40% below average.

How do I evict a tenant?

At the end of the lease, a landlord may ask the tenant to vacate only for specific legal reasons — selling the property, use by the owner or a first-degree relative, demolition, or major renovation — with at least 12 months' notice through a notary public or by registered mail (Law 26/2007 as amended, Art. 25(2)). For non-payment of rent, you can apply to the Rental Disputes Centre. UNIQ advises on all eviction procedures.

What is my tax liability as a landlord?

The UAE does not levy personal income tax, and under Cabinet Decision No. 49 of 2023 rental income earned by individuals (where no licence is required) is not treated as a business for UAE Corporate Tax. Your home country may tax worldwide income, so check with a qualified tax adviser.

Personal Income Tax

None

Capital Gains Tax

Golden Visa

From AED 2M

DLD Transfer Fee

Why Invest in Dubai Property?

Dubai offers an investor-friendly environment: the UAE does not levy personal income tax, freehold ownership is open to non-UAE nationals in designated areas (Law No. 7 of 2006), every sale is registered with the Dubai Land Department, and off-plan buyers are protected by mandatory project escrow accounts (Law No. 8 of 2007). Property owners can also apply for long-term residency through the Golden Visa. Your home country may tax worldwide income, so check with a qualified tax adviser.

Choosing a Community

Living Legends — gated Dubailand community of standalone villas, townhouses and apartment towers

Jumeirah Village Circle — central, mid-market apartments and townhouses

Business Bay — canal-side towers close to Downtown Dubai

Dubai Hills Estate — master-planned community with park, mall and golf course

Dubai South — near Al Maktoum International Airport and Expo City

Dubailand — family-oriented villa communities

Rental income and price movements vary by building, unit and timing, and past performance does not predict future results. Check DLD's Rental Index and Service Charge Index for the specific building before you buy.

Buy-to-Let vs Off-Plan — Which is Better?

Buy-to-Let (Ready Property)

Rental income can start straight away, and you can inspect the actual home and check its current rent — no construction risk. Higher entry price but cash flows from day one. Best for income investors.

Off-Plan Investment

Developer payment plans spread the cost over the construction period. Values can rise or fall before handover and completion dates can move, so check the project is registered with DLD, pay only into the project escrow account and confirm Oqood registration.

The UAE Golden Visa Through Property

Under DLD's Golden Visa service, owners of property worth at least AED 2 million (in one or more properties) can apply for the UAE's 10-year renewable Golden Visa. Mortgaged property can qualify with a no-objection letter from the bank, and ICP states that off-plan units from approved developers can also count. Requirements are set by the authorities and can change, so confirm eligibility with DLD or ICP before you buy.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I estimate rental income?

Rents vary by building, unit type, condition and timing. Check DLD's Rental Index for the building and recent comparable lettings, and allow for service charges, maintenance and vacant periods. Our ROI Calculator lets you test your own assumptions; it is an illustration only, not a forecast.

Is Dubai property a safe investment?

Dubai's market is regulated by RERA and DLD, with mandatory escrow accounts for off-plan projects protecting buyers. All property prices can go down as well as up, so buy with a long-term view and get independent advice where needed.

Can non-residents invest in Dubai property?

Yes. Non-residents can purchase in designated freehold areas with the same rights as residents. Many investors buy remotely — UNIQ handles the entire process including Power of Attorney if needed.

What happens if I want to sell my investment property?

There are no restrictions on resale and no capital gains tax. You can sell at any time. UNIQ will list, market and manage the sale for a 2% commission.

Max LTV (Expat, 1st home)

80%

Min Deposit

From 20%

Max Term

25 Years

Processing Time

2–4 Weeks

Can Expats Get a Mortgage in Dubai?

Yes. UAE banks lend to both UAE residents and non-residents. Under the Central Bank's mortgage regulations, expatriates buying a first home can borrow up to 80% of the value for homes below AED 5 million and up to 70% above that, so the minimum deposit is 20% (plus fees). UAE nationals can borrow up to 85% and 75% respectively. Lending to non-residents is set by each bank's own policy. Banks may apply stricter terms.

How Much Can You Borrow?

Expat first home under AED 5M: max 80% LTV

Expat first home above AED 5M: max 70% LTV

UAE nationals first home: max 85% (under AED 5M) / 75% (above)

Second homes: lower limits (60% for expats); off-plan: max 50%

Non-residents: set by each bank's policy

Total debt repayments capped at 50% of income

Maximum mortgage term: 25 years (age limits set by each bank)

Fixed vs Variable Rate Mortgages

Fixed Rate

Your interest rate is locked for a set period (typically 1–5 years). Offers certainty and protection against rate rises. Usually slightly higher than variable but predictable monthly payments.

Variable Rate

Rate tracks the Emirates Interbank Offered Rate (EIBOR). Can go up or down with market conditions. Often starts lower but carries risk if rates rise.

Which is Right for You?

If you plan to hold the property long-term and want payment certainty, fixed is safer. If you believe rates will fall or plan to sell within a few years, variable may save money.

Step-by-Step Mortgage Process

Pre-Approval

Submit your income documents to the bank. They assess your salary, liabilities and credit history and issue a pre-approval letter — valid for 60–90 days.

Property Valuation

The bank commissions an independent valuation of the property. The mortgage is based on the lower of purchase price or valuation.

Final Offer Letter

Bank issues the final mortgage offer. Review all terms — interest rate, fees, early settlement penalties.

Sign & Register

Mortgage is signed at the DLD Trustee Office simultaneously with the property transfer. Mortgage registration fee of 0.25% of loan applies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What documents do I need for a UAE mortgage?

Typically: passport copy, UAE residence visa, Emirates ID, last 3–6 months bank statements, last 3 months salary slips (or audited accounts if self-employed), employment letter, and the property's MOU/SPA.

How long does mortgage approval take?

Pre-approval typically takes 3–5 working days. Full approval and disbursement takes 2–4 weeks depending on the bank and property type.

Can I get a mortgage as a non-resident?

Yes. Several UAE banks lend to non-residents; the maximum loan-to-value is set by each bank's policy. Requirements are stricter — you'll need to show income from abroad and a clean credit history.

Are there early settlement penalties?

Yes — typically 1–3% of the outstanding loan balance if you settle within the fixed rate period. Check your mortgage terms carefully before settling early.