Who Can Buy Property in Dubai?
In 2025, foreign nationals, including non-residents, can legally purchase property in designated freehold areas in Dubai. These laws apply to:
- Foreign investors
- Non-GCC expats living in the UAE
- Overseas buyers with no UAE residency
There is no nationality restriction as long as the property is located in a freehold zone.
Freehold vs Leasehold Ownership
Dubai classifies properties into two types of ownership:
Freehold
- Most popular with foreign buyers
- Full ownership of the property and land
- Can sell, lease, or pass on to heirs without restriction
Leasehold
- Land remains under the ownership of the original landlord
- Right to use property for 10 to 99 years
- Common in older developments
Popular Freehold Areas (2025)
- Dubai Marina
- Downtown Dubai
- Palm Jumeirah
- Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC)
- Business Bay
- Dubai Hills Estate
- Dubai Creek Harbour
- MBR City
Can Non-Residents Buy Without a UAE Visa?
Yes. Non residents can legally buy property in Dubai without holding a UAE visa. In fact, ownership can even grant you residency, such as the Golden Visa (explained below).
How the Buying Process Works in 2025
Here’s a simplified step by step breakdown of buying a property in Dubai:
Step 1: Select the Property
Choose from off-plan or ready properties in freehold zones. Popular developers include:
- Emaar
- Damac
- Sobha
- Nakheel
- Azizi
Step 2: Sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)
- Buyer & seller agree to terms
- Usually with a 10% deposit
Step 3: NOC and DLD Approval
- Developer issues a No Objection Certificate (NOC)
- Submit paperwork to Dubai Land Department (DLD)
Step 4: Final Payment and Registration
- Pay remaining amount
- DLD registers the property and issues a Title Deed
Step 5: Optional EJARI (If Renting)
- Register tenancy contract with EJARI system for compliance
Fees & Costs Involved
Buying property in Dubai involves some upfront fees. Here are the key costs in 2025:
| Fee Type | Amount |
| DLD Registration Fee | 4% of property value |
| Agency Commission | ~2% (negotiable) |
| Admin Fees | AED 4,000 – AED 5,000 |
| NOC Fee (if resale) | AED 500 – AED 5,000 |
| Trustee Fee | AED 2,000 – AED 4,000 |
Note: No income tax or capital gains tax in Dubai.
Can You Get a Golden Visa Through Property?
Yes. In 2025, investing in property is one of the fastest ways to obtain a UAE Golden Visa, especially for high-net-worth individuals.
Requirements
- Minimum investment: AED 2 million in property (single or combined)
- Must be fully paid (mortgage-free) or minimum paid amount must meet threshold
- Applicable for off-plan and ready properties from approved developers
Golden Visa Benefits
- 10-year renewable residency
- No sponsor or employer needed
- Can sponsor family members
- Business-friendly access to UAE
Off-Plan vs Ready Property: What Foreigners Choose in 2025
Off-Plan Pros
- Lower entry price
- Flexible payment plans
- Capital appreciation by handover
Off-Plan Cons
- Wait time to occupy
- Construction risk (though reduced due to strict RERA controls)
Ready Property Pros
- Immediate move-in or rental income
- Less risk, tangible asset
Ready Property Cons
- Higher upfront cost
- May need renovations
Tip: In 2025, off-plan is still booming in areas like Dubai South, Dubai Creek Harbour, and MBR City due to Expo 2040 developments.
Is Rental Income Allowed for Foreigners?
Absolutely. Foreign owners can lease out their property and earn rental income, whether long-term or short-term (with a permit).
Average Rental Yields (2025)
- JVC, Sports City, Arjan: 6% – 8.5%
- Dubai Marina, Business Bay: 5% – 6.5%
- Palm Jumeirah, Downtown: 4.5% – 5.5%
Dubai’s rental yields are among the highest globally.
Tips for Foreign Buyers in 2025
- Work with RERA-licensed agents only
- Verify all documents before transferring funds
- Always use escrow accounts for off-plan purchases
- Consider service charges (can vary from AED 10 to AED 25 per sqft)
- Choose developers with a strong delivery record
Final Thoughts
In 2025, Dubai offers unmatched opportunities for foreign property buyers. With transparent laws, strong yields, and residency options like the Golden Visa, investing in Dubai real estate is more accessible and rewarding than ever.
Whether you’re looking to relocate, invest, or earn rental income, Dubai welcomes foreign buyers with open arms — and a lot of potential.
Want more insights? Stay tuned to DubaiObserver.ae for expert real estate guides, investment trends, and buyer tips tailored to Dubai’s booming market.
