Buy property in Dubai, confidently
Foreigners can buy freehold property in Dubai in five clear steps, with all-in transaction costs typically 7–10% of the purchase price (including a 4% Dubai Land Department fee) and average gross apartment yields near 7%. A qualifying purchase from AED 2,000,000 can also lead to a 10-year Golden Visa. This briefing is independent and educational. Nobody here is trying to sell you a listing.
The case in four lines
Four reasons international buyers keep picking this market over the alternatives.
Foreign freehold
Own freehold outright in designated areas, with full title and no local sponsor.
No income or property tax
No personal income tax and no annual property tax on individuals.
~7% gross yields
Average gross apartment yields near 7%, up to 10% in top areas.
Golden Visa route
A qualifying purchase from AED 2,000,000 can lead to 10-year residency.
From budget to title deed in 5 steps
An educational overview of the Dubai buying process, start to finish.
- 01
Define budget & goal
Set your budget including the 7–10% transaction costs, and decide between rental yield, capital growth or a Golden Visa.
- 02
Choose area & property type
Compare communities by price/sqft and yield. Decide off-plan (payment plans, newer) vs ready (immediate rent).
- 03
Reserve & sign
Sign a reservation form / MOU (Form F) and pay a deposit, typically 10% for ready property.
- 04
NOC & transfer
The developer issues a No Objection Certificate; ownership transfers at a DLD-registered trustee office.
- 05
Register & receive title
Pay the DLD fee, register the transaction and receive your title deed. Eligible purchases can begin the Golden Visa process.
Budget for 7–10% on top of the price
The largest line item is the 4% Dubai Land Department transfer fee, followed by a 2% agency commission (plus 5% VAT) and smaller trustee and admin fees.
A property from AED 2,000,000 can earn you a 10-year Golden Visa
Off-plan and mortgaged properties now qualify (as of 20 Feb 2026). See exactly who qualifies and how the process works.
What the 2025 numbers say
Verified full-year figures (2025 full-year (verified 2026-06-16)).
Frequently asked questions
Can a foreigner buy property in Dubai?+
Yes. Foreign nationals can buy and own freehold property outright in Dubai's designated freehold areas, with full title and no local-sponsor requirement.
How much does it cost to buy property in Dubai?+
Beyond the purchase price, budget for total transaction costs of roughly 7–10%. The largest item is the 4% Dubai Land Department transfer fee, followed by a 2% agency commission plus 5% VAT and smaller trustee and admin fees.
How do I buy property in Dubai step by step?+
Define your budget and goal, then choose an area and property type. Sign a reservation form or MOU and pay the deposit. The developer issues a No Objection Certificate, ownership transfers at a DLD trustee office, and you register and receive your title deed.
What return can I expect on Dubai property?+
Average gross rental yields are around 7% for apartments and 5% for villas, reaching up to 10% in top apartment areas. Gross yields. Net is typically 1.5–2.5pp lower after costs. Returns vary by area and are not guaranteed.
Does buying property in Dubai give residency?+
A qualifying property purchase from AED 2,000,000 can lead to a 10-year renewable Golden Visa. Off-plan and mortgaged properties now qualify (as of 20 Feb 2026).
Make your move with the numbers on your side
Talk through your budget and goals on a free, no-obligation call, or keep reading the full guide first.