How to Buy Property in Dubai (Step-by-Step)
The purchase process is straightforward and well-protected for both residents and non-residents:
Agree terms and sign the MOU (Form F) — the contract of sale, registered with RERA, usually with a 10% deposit.
Obtain the developer's NOC — confirming no outstanding service charges on the property.
Transfer at the DLD — ownership is transferred at a Dubai Land Department trustee office and a new title deed is issued.
Settle the fees — budget for the DLD transfer fee (4% of the purchase price) plus agency and, where applicable, mortgage registration fees.
Buying with finance? Our mortgage services in Dubai team can pre-arrange your eligibility, and our investment advisory specialists help you choose the right asset for your goals. Before you commit, an independent property valuation confirms you're paying a fair market price.
Foreign Ownership, Freehold & the Golden Visa
International buyers can own property outright in Dubai's freehold zones — more than 60 of them, including Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah, Business Bay and JVC. Freehold ownership grants full rights to sell, lease or occupy the property and the land it sits on.
A property purchase can also secure long-term residency. As of 2026, a property (or combination of properties) with a total value of AED 2 million or more qualifies the owner for the renewable 10-year UAE Golden Visa — and recent rule changes mean off-plan and mortgaged properties now count, provided the bank issues a no-objection certificate. Non-residents can also obtain mortgages from UAE banks, typically with a higher down payment than residents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Can foreigners buy property in Dubai?
A. Yes. Foreign nationals can buy and fully own freehold property in Dubai's 60-plus designated freehold zones, with the same rights to sell, lease or live in the property as UAE nationals.
Q. What fees do I pay when buying property in Dubai?
A. The main cost is the Dubai Land Department transfer fee of 4% of the purchase price. On top of that, budget for the agency fee (typically 2%), a trustee office registration fee, and mortgage registration costs if you are financing the purchase.
Q. What is the minimum property value for a Dubai Golden Visa?
A. AED 2 million. This can be a single property or several combined, and as of 2026, both off-plan and mortgaged units count as long as the DLD-certified value meets the threshold, and the bank provides a no-objection certificate.
Q. What rental yield can I expect in Dubai?
A. Gross yields commonly fall in the 5–8% range, with smaller units and value-led communities such as JVC and Business Bay often at the higher end. Net yield depends on service charges, maintenance, and vacancy, so always model the full picture before buying.
Q. Is off-plan or ready property the better investment?
A. Off-plan often offers lower entry prices and flexible payment plans with strong capital-appreciation potential, while ready property generates rental income immediately and removes construction risk. The right choice depends on your timeline and cash flow — our advisors can model both.
Q. Can non-residents get a mortgage in Dubai?
A. Yes. UAE banks lend to non-residents, though usually with a larger down payment and a narrower choice of lenders than residents receive.
Start Your Search with FP Property
Whether you're buying your first home, relocating to Dubai, or expanding an investment portfolio, FP Property gives you verified listings, honest advice, and full-scope support from search to handover. Enquire below for our tailor-made package, or book a meeting with an advisor today.
