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

25%

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

Agent Commission: typically 2% of purchase price

Trustee Office Fee: AED 4,200 (properties above AED 500K)

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. The UAE Golden Visa grants a 10-year residence visa to investors purchasing property worth AED 2 million or more. The property must be fully paid (not mortgaged) or above AED 2M with a maximum mortgage of 50%.

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. Key indicators that it is a good time to sell include rising transaction volumes on DLD data, strong rental demand pushing yields above 6%, and positive off-plan launches in your community driving up comparable prices. UNIQ provides a free market valuation 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

We list on Bayut, Property Finder and our own website with professional photography and targeted marketing to serious buyers.

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 — Dubai's #1 property portal

Listed on Property Finder with premium placement

Featured on uniqrealty.co

WhatsApp broadcast to our active buyer database

Social media promotion on Instagram

Direct outreach to qualified buyers in our network

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. This makes it one of the most tax-efficient places in the world to own and sell property.

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 (5% of annual rent) 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

Security deposit must be returned within 30 days of vacating

Landlord cannot evict without 12 months written notice (or 6 months for personal use)

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. Cost is approximately AED 220.

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?

The deposit (5% of annual rent) must be returned within 30 days of vacating, minus any legitimate deductions for damage beyond normal wear and tear.

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.

Avg Yield

6–8% p.a.

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 rental market offers strong yields of 6–8% per annum, stable demand from a growing expat population, and legal protections for landlords. UNIQ handles the entire process from valuation to Ejari registration.

Step-by-Step Process

Free 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 free market appraisal to help you set the optimal rent — not too high (vacant property) and not too low (lost income).

How do I increase rent at renewal?

You can increase rent once per year with 90 days written notice. The increase must comply with RERA's Rental Index. If the current rent is at or above the index, no increase is permitted.

How do I evict a tenant?

If you need the property for personal use, you must give 12 months written notice via notarised letter. 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?

None. Dubai has zero income tax, zero capital gains tax and zero inheritance tax. All rental income is yours to keep.

Avg Rental Yield

6–8% p.a.

Capital Gains Tax

Golden Visa

From AED 2M

Market Growth 2025

+15% YoY

Why Invest in Dubai Property?

Dubai offers a uniquely compelling investment environment: zero capital gains tax, zero income tax on rental returns, a rapidly growing population of over 3.6 million, strong rental demand from an 88% expat majority, and government-backed Golden Visa incentives for property investors. Rental yields of 6–8% regularly outperform London, New York and Singapore.

Best Areas for Investment ROI

Living Legends — 6–8% yield, standalone villas from AED 2.8M, strong capital growth

Jumeirah Village Circle — high yields 7–9%, apartments from AED 550K

Business Bay — strong rental demand, premium location, 5–7% yield

Dubai Hills Estate — premium community, capital appreciation focus

Dubai South — near airport and Expo City, entry-level from AED 450K

Dubailand — family communities, affordable entry, solid long-term growth

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

Buy-to-Let (Ready Property)

Immediate rental income. Known asset, known yield, no construction risk. Higher entry price but cash flows from day one. Best for income investors.

Off-Plan Investment

Lower entry price, flexible payment plans (20/80 or 30/70), potential capital gain between purchase and handover. Higher risk — developer delays possible. Best for capital growth investors.

The UAE Golden Visa Through Property

Purchase property worth AED 2 million or more (fully paid, not mortgaged above 50%) and you qualify for a 10-year UAE Golden Visa — renewable, includes your family, and grants full residency rights. UNIQ can guide you on Golden Visa-eligible properties in Living Legends and other communities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What rental yield can I expect in Dubai?

Yields vary by community and property type. Villas in Living Legends achieve 6–8%. Apartments in JVC and Business Bay can yield 7–9%. Use our ROI Calculator on the website for a detailed projection.

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. The city's population growth and infrastructure investment provide strong long-term fundamentals.

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)

75%

Min Deposit

25%

Best Rates From

3.99% p.a.

Processing Time

2–4 Weeks

Can Expats Get a Mortgage in Dubai?

Yes. UAE-based banks offer mortgages to both UAE residents and non-residents. Expats can borrow up to 75% of the property value (for properties under AED 5 million), meaning a minimum deposit of 25%. UAE nationals can borrow up to 80% LTV. Non-residents (buying from outside the UAE) can typically access 50–65% LTV depending on the bank.

How Much Can You Borrow?

Properties under AED 5M: max 75% LTV (expats)

Properties above AED 5M: max 65% LTV (expats)

UAE Nationals: max 80% LTV on all properties

Non-residents (abroad): typically 50–65% LTV

Monthly repayment must not exceed 50% of gross salary

Maximum mortgage term: 25 years (age limit 65 at maturity)

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 offer non-resident mortgages at 50–65% LTV. Requirements are stricter — you'll need to show strong 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.