As a foreigner, are you wondering whether you could purchase property in Dubai? You are not alone. This is one of the most sought–out questions in real estate across the globe and good news.
Yes, foreigners can legally possess property in Dubai by virtue of the investor incentive policies made into law back in 2002.
If you anticipate relocating to Dubai, investing in holiday homes, or even securing rental income, getting to know the legal rules surrounding foreign property ownership is a must. In this article, we will show you who can buy property in Dubai, what areas are open to expat buyers, and the legal rights you will be given as a foreign investor.
Can foreigners buy property in Dubai?
Yes, of course! Non-residents, expats, and international investors can purchase property in Dubai! The Dubai Government has enforced these clear laws that have led the city to become a hub for real estate investment across the globe.
Dubai Property Law No. 7 of 2006 allows foreigners to acquire property on a freehold or leasehold basis in areas defined as freehold zones.
What is a Freehold Area in Dubai?
A freehold area is a district where foreign nationals can purchase property and enjoy 100% ownership rights. The buyers can sell, lease, or rent out their property without any restraining factors.
Among the most sought-after freehold areas in Dubai are:
- Dubai Marina
- Downtown Dubai
- Business Bay
- Palm Jumeirah
- Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC)
- Arabian Ranches
- Dubai Hills Estate
These communities enjoy state-of-the-art amenities, security, and excellent ROI for investors.
Types of Property Ownership For Foreigners:
Foreigners in Dubai can buy:
1. Freehold Property
Full ownership of the unit and land.
Registration of ownership with the Dubai Land Department (DLD).
Can be freely sold, leased, or transferred.
2. Leasehold Property
Long-term lease (10 to 99 years).
Ownership of the property only—not the land.
Cannot make structural changes without approval.
Freehold apartments remain most popular with investors due to greater flexibility in the use of property and long-term value.
The Legal Process for Foreigners Buying Property:
Here is a quick view of the process:
- Find a property in freehold territory
- Sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)
- Pay a 10 % deposit
- Register the sale in the Dubai Land Department
- Pay the transfer charges (4 percent of property value) (depends on the property).
- Title deed in your name
A property in the UAE can be purchased without residency. Even nonresidents can purchase real estate in Dubai.
Tip: Always employ a registered Dubai Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) agent for safe and transparent transactions.
Can Expats Own Property in Dubai?
Most definitely! Expats, who may presently stay or are very much alike anywhere abroad, can purchase residential, commercial, and even off-plan properties. Buying property in Dubai as an expat also provides access to property investor visas, dependent on the value of the purchase.
Benefits of Property Ownership in Dubai for Foreigners:
- 100% ownership in freehold zones
- Zero property tax
- Strong rental yields (up to 7-8% in some areas) (Approx)
- Eligibility for UAE Golden Visa (if investment exceeds AED 2 million)
- Secure environment for investment regulated by DLD and RERA
Cautions Foreign Buyers Must Consider:
- Purchases can only be made in designated freehold areas.
- Financing options may differ for nonresidents; check with UAE banks.
- Off-plan property comes with developer risk—choose reputed developers.
Would it be worth anything for a foreigner to buy property in Dubai?
Yes, buying property in Dubai is not only legal for foreigners but, in the concrete, really rewarding. No annual property tax at all, combined with modern infrastructure and strong ROI, puts Dubai in contention as one of the finest all over the world to invest in real estate.
Just be sure you know all the legalities involved, make the right choice of location, and work with actual licensed professionals.