Buying property in the UAE as an expat
Can foreigners buy property in Dubai?
Yes. Foreign nationals can buy and fully own property in Dubai's designated freehold areas. Ownership runs through the Dubai Land Department and does not depend on your visa, so you can buy as a resident or from overseas. You need to be at least 21 to sign a purchase contract.
Where expats can buy
Foreign ownership is allowed in freehold zones, which are specific areas the government has opened to overseas buyers. Popular ones include Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah, Business Bay, Dubai Hills Estate and Jumeirah Village Circle. Outside these zones, expats can usually buy on a leasehold basis instead, which gives you the property for a fixed term rather than outright.
Freehold gives you full ownership of the home and the land, with no expiry. Leasehold gives you use of the property for a set period, commonly up to 99 years. For most buyers, freehold in an approved area is the straightforward route.
You do not need a visa to buy
Buying property and holding a residence visa are two separate things. Ownership is recorded by the land department based on the purchase, not your immigration status, so overseas buyers can and do purchase remotely. The link runs the other way: if your property is worth AED 2,000,000 or more, that purchase can qualify you for a 10-year Golden Visa through property.
Not sure where to start?
Tell us your budget and what you want the property for. A licensed UAE property partner will come back with a short list that fits, and flag whether it clears the Golden Visa threshold.
Find properties for expatsMortgages for expats
UAE banks lend to both resident and non-resident expats, though rates and paperwork vary. On a first property under AED 5,000,000, expats can generally borrow up to 80% of the value, so you plan for a down payment of at least 20% plus the buying costs. If you are financing, the UAE mortgage calculator estimates your monthly repayment and the total upfront cash before you commit.
What it costs on top of the price
Beyond the purchase price, set aside roughly 7 to 8% of the value. The main items are the Dubai Land Department transfer fee at 4%, agency commission at about 2%, and, if you take a mortgage, a registration fee. Valuation and trustee fees are smaller fixed amounts. After you own the property, annual service charges apply and vary by building and community.
Tax on UAE property
Dubai does not currently charge an annual property tax or a tax on personal rental income, which is one reason overseas buyers look here. That can change, and your home country may still tax your worldwide income or gains, so check your own tax position before you buy.
Buying to qualify for residency? See the AED 2M property route, or if you are new to the market, read the first-time buyer guide.
Source: UAE Government portal (u.ae) — Expatriates buying property in the UAE · last verified Confirm current freehold areas and fees with the Dubai Land Department before purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can expats buy property in Dubai?
Yes. Foreign nationals can buy and fully own property in Dubai's designated freehold areas. Ownership is handled by the Dubai Land Department and is not tied to your visa or residency status, so you can buy whether you live in the UAE or overseas.
Do I need a residence visa to buy property in Dubai?
No. You do not need to be a UAE resident to buy freehold property. Many buyers purchase from abroad. If your property is worth AED 2,000,000 or more, the purchase itself can then qualify you for a 10-year Golden Visa.
What is the difference between freehold and leasehold?
Freehold means you own the property and the land outright, with no time limit. Leasehold means you hold the property for a fixed term, usually up to 99 years. Foreign buyers can own freehold only in designated areas.
Can expats get a mortgage in the UAE?
Yes. Non-resident and resident expats can get mortgages from UAE banks, though terms differ. Expats can typically borrow up to 80% of the value on a first property under AED 5 million, so you need at least a 20% down payment plus fees.
What extra costs do foreign buyers pay?
Budget for roughly 7 to 8% of the price on top of it: a 4% Dubai Land Department transfer fee, about 2% agency commission, mortgage registration if you finance, plus valuation and trustee fees. Annual service charges apply after purchase.