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
01
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.
02
Property Viewing
Visit shortlisted properties. Our agents will accompany you and highlight key details — size, condition, service charges, and rental potential.
03
Make an Offer
Once you find the right property, submit an offer through your agent. Negotiation is normal — UNIQ will negotiate on your behalf.
04
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.
05
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.
06
NOC from Developer
The seller's developer issues a No Objection Certificate confirming no outstanding charges. UNIQ coordinates this on your behalf.
07
Transfer at DLD Trustee Office
Both parties attend a Dubai Land Department Trustee Office. All funds are transferred and the title deed changes hands.
08
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.