Dubai Real Estate FAQs
1. Why is Dubai a great place to invest in real estate?
Dubai offers tax-free property ownership, high rental yields, a strong economy, and a strategic location between Europe, Asia, and Africa. With world-class infrastructure, a booming tourism industry, and foreign investor-friendly regulations, Dubai is one of the most attractive real estate markets globally.
2. Can foreigners buy property in Dubai?
Yes! Dubai allows foreign nationals to own freehold properties in designated areas such as Downtown Dubai, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Marina, and Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC). Freehold ownership means you own the property outright with full rights to sell, lease, or rent it.
3. What are the best areas to buy property in Dubai?
Some of the top areas for investment in Dubai include:
- Downtown Dubai – Luxury apartments with Burj Khalifa views
- Dubai Marina – Waterfront living and vibrant nightlife
- Palm Jumeirah – Exclusive beachfront villas and high-end apartments
- Business Bay – Ideal for investors looking for high rental returns
- Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC) – Affordable apartments with strong rental demand
4. How much does it cost to buy property in Dubai?
Property prices in Dubai vary based on location, size, and property type:
- Studio apartments start from AED 400,000
- 1-bedroom apartments range from AED 600,000 – AED 2 million
- Luxury villas start from AED 2 million and can go beyond AED 100 million
5. What are the payment plans for buying property in Dubai?
Developers in Dubai offer flexible payment plans, including:
- Post-handover payment plans (pay in installments even after receiving the property)
- Mortgage financing for eligible buyers (up to 80% for UAE residents, 50% for non-residents)
- Off-plan property payment plans (small down payments with installment options)
6. What is the Dubai Golden Visa, and how can I get it?
The Dubai Golden Visa is a long-term residency visa available to property investors who purchase a property worth AED 2 million or more. It allows 10-year residency, family sponsorship, and business opportunities in the UAE.
7. What are the costs of buying a property in Dubai?
When buying property in Dubai, you should consider the following additional costs:
- Dubai Land Department (DLD) Fee: 4% of the property value
- Registration Fees: AED 2,000 – AED 4,000
- Real Estate Agent Commission: Typically 2% of the property price
- Mortgage Registration Fee (if applicable): 0.25% of the loan amount
8. Is buying off-plan property in Dubai a good investment?
Yes! Off-plan properties in Dubai often offer lower prices, flexible payment plans, and high ROI potential. Investors can benefit from capital appreciation as the project nears completion. However, always buy from reputable developers to ensure project completion.
9. How much rental income can I expect from Dubai properties?
Dubai offers some of the highest rental yields globally, ranging from 5% to 10% annually. The rental yield depends on location, property type, and market demand. Popular areas like Dubai Marina, JVC, and Downtown Dubai have strong rental demand.
10. Are there any property taxes in Dubai?
Dubai has zero property tax and no capital gains tax, making it a highly attractive destination for real estate investment. The only applicable fees are DLD registration fees (4%) and service charges for maintenance.
11. Can I get a mortgage in Dubai as a foreigner?
Yes, non-residents can obtain mortgages in Dubai, but banks typically finance up to 50% of the property value. UAE residents can get up to 80% financing. A good credit history and a stable income are required to qualify.
12. How long does it take to buy a property in Dubai?
A property purchase in Dubai typically takes 2 to 6 weeks, depending on the payment method and approval process. The steps include:
- Signing the Sales Agreement
- Paying the Initial Deposit (Usually 10%)
- Obtaining NOC (No Objection Certificate) from the Developer
- Transfer of Ownership at the Dubai Land Department (DLD)
13. What is the difference between freehold and leasehold properties?
- Freehold properties: Full ownership, available for foreigners in designated areas.
- Leasehold properties: Leased for 10 to 99 years, mainly in non-freehold areas.
14. What are service charges in Dubai real estate?
Service charges cover maintenance, security, and shared facilities in residential communities. Charges vary by property type and are calculated per square foot. For example:
- Apartments: AED 10 – AED 25 per sq. ft.
- Villas: AED 3 – AED 7 per sq. ft.
15. Can I buy property in Dubai and resell it quickly?
Yes, you can resell property in Dubai before or after handover. However, some developers impose a minimum payment requirement (usually 30%-40%) before resale of off-plan properties.
16. What happens if I don’t live in Dubai? Can I still buy property?
Yes! Dubai has a fully digital real estate transaction system. You can buy property remotely through a registered real estate agent or power of attorney.
17. Can I rent out my Dubai property while living abroad?
Yes, you can rent out your property remotely by appointing a property management company to handle tenants, maintenance, and rent collection.
18. How can I verify if a real estate agent or developer is legitimate?
To ensure legal and secure transactions, always:
✅ Verify the agent’s RERA license (Dubai Real Estate Regulatory Authority)
✅ Check the developer’s track record and project approvals
✅ Use official government platforms like Dubai Land Department (DLD)
19. Are there any risks in buying property in Dubai?
As with any real estate investment, risks include:
- Market fluctuations affecting property value
- Delays in off-plan projects (always choose reputed developers)
- High service charges in certain communities
However, Dubai’s strong regulatory framework (RERA & DLD) ensures a safe investment environment.
20. How can I start investing in Dubai real estate?
To invest in Dubai real estate, follow these steps:
- Choose a budget and decide between off-plan or ready properties
- Select the right area based on rental yield and capital appreciation
- Work with a trusted real estate agency
- Review legal paperwork & finalize payment
- Register your property with Dubai Land Department (DLD)
