A visible change is happening in 2025. Investors in India, with particular emphasis on Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore investors, are investing into the real estate market of Dubai. From wealthy NRIs, now middle and upper-middle-class Indians have started to show interest, seeking opportunities abroad from India, which they find very expensive and crowded.
So what is the current impetus? And why are Meydan, Dubai Marina, and Dubai Hills the hottest picks among Indian buyers?
Let us analyze the emotional and financial appeal of buying real estate in Dubai.
Indians Are Dubai’s No. 1 Property Buyers 2025:
According to data from the Dubai Land Department (DLD), Indians ranked first among foreign investors in Dubai’s property market. And watching the statistics is mind-blowing:
- 30% of sales for off-plan properties in Q2 2025 were by nationals of India.
- Buyers from Mumbai alone accounted for over AED 1.2 billion worth of transactions in the last 6 months.
- Indians invest for more than just returns. They seek residency, lifestyle, and global exposure.
Meydan: The New Powai for Indian Families:
Any Indian family in Dubai will tell you: Meydan is where the value lies. Meydan is buzzing with projects like MAG City, District One, and Azizi Riviera, offering properties of:
- 2 to 4 BHK villas and townhouses ranging in spaciousness
- Connectivity to Downtown Dubai and Business Bay
- Greenery and lagoon communities
- Access to the world’s best international and Indian-school curricula
Meydan homes begin at AED 1.8 M, a good bargain when you compare that to apartment rates of ₹5–6 Cr in the Mumbai suburbs. Along with the view, there are also modern amenities, smart-home technology, and better rental yields.
Tax-Free Returns & Golden Visa = Smart Investment:
Dubai’s tax-free rental income is one of the biggest pulls for Indians. Here’s what they fancy:
- No capital gains tax
- No property tax
- High rental ROI of 6–8%, especially earning in areas like Dubai Hills and Meydan
- Eligibility for a 5-to-10-year Golden Visa on property investment above AED 2 million
It provides investors with strong alternative plans for budding entrepreneurs, freelancers, and retired folks. Also serves as a turf for relocation in the future.
Mumbai vs. Dubai: The Price & ROI Comparison:
| Feature | Mumbai (Andheri/Bandra) | Dubai (Meydan/Marina) |
|---|---|---|
| 3BHK Price | ₹4.5–7 Cr | AED 2–3M (₹4.5–6 Cr) |
| Built-up Area | ~1100 sq.ft | 1500–1800 sq.ft |
| ROI | 2–3% (taxed) | 6–8% (tax-free) |
| Time to Possession | Often delayed | Mostly on-time |
Not Only For The Rich: Even Middle-Class Families Are Buying:
Earlier, the leap was solely taken by Bollywood celebs and businessmen. But now:
- IT professionals from Pune and Bangalore
- Doctors from Hyderabad
- Retirees from Chennai
- Freelancers and digital nomads
…are all weighing up Dubai as a safe, stable, high-ROI property investment. Today, platforms and consultants help in remote property purchases, which has made life easier.
Buying Tips For Indian Buyers Targeting Dubai:
- Start with off-plan projects – Lower down payment and flexible payment plans.
- Never aim below AED 2M – So that makes you eligible for the Dubai Golden Visa.
- Pick areas with Indian schools – Meydan, Mirdif, Dubai Hills, Al Furjan.
- Engage RERA-licensed real estate agents – Avoid legal disputes.
- Legal: You don’t need UAE citizenship to buy. But do check for the reputation of the developer.
Indian interest in property in Dubai is far from a trend, it is good sense to those who want better returns, better lifestyles, and more global mobility.
Whoever wants to purchase properties anywhere in the world, be it an NRI wanting to diversify his/her portfolio or a middle-class family with aspirations for global investment, the Dubai property market is there for everyone.
Would you like to know how even the Indian middle-class buyers are doing it?
Check out our write-up:
👉 Why Middle-Class Indians Are Quietly Buying Property in Dubai?