How to Buy Property in Dubai as a Foreigner

Dubai is one of the most vibrant and dynamic metropolises, rivaling New York and London. This city is famous for its ambitious projects, including the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, the luxurious artificial archipelago Palm Jumeirah, and the stunning Museum of the Future. Residential real estate is no less magnificent. Apartments, townhouses, and villas offer inhabitants all imaginable amenities. Owning a flat or a house here unlocks the opportunity to live comfortably, conduct business, and enjoy all the benefits this metropolis provides. This article explains how foreigners can buy property in Dubai, UAE.

How to buy real estate in Dubai: a resident’s guide

You can acquire a home in almost any area as a UAE resident. However, understanding how to buy a house in Dubai or how to buy an apartment in Dubai is crucial for a successful purchase. The process begins with opting for an ideal property. You can contact developers, real estate agencies, or private sellers directly. After selecting an object, the next step is to agree on the price and terms of purchase.

Next, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) is signed, establishing the conditions of the deal and the parties’ obligations. After that, you must pay a deposit, usually 10%. By default, the MOU remains valid for two months; the seller cannot conclude a transaction with another buyer during this period. If the seller breaches the agreement, they must return the double deposit. Conversely, if you terminate the MOU, you forfeit the deposit.

The seller must then provide a No Objection Certificate, confirming they have no outstanding obligations to the developer. The final stage involves transferring ownership rights through the Dubai Land Department. You receive a Title Deed confirming ownership of a completed property. If you buy a project under construction, you receive an Initial Contract of Sale. During registration of rights, there are three separate payments: one for the object itself, another for the fee associated with registering the transfer of ownership rights, and a fee for issuing a certificate.

How can I buy property in Dubai as a non-resident?

Let’s discuss how to purchase a property in Dubai as a non-resident. While the process begins similarly with selecting real estate, some key considerations exist. You can only own a flat or a villa in designated freehold areas, such as Bluewaters Island, Culture Village, and Dubai Sports City. Outside these zones, foreigners can only acquire leasehold rights for 99 years.

After selecting an object and agreeing on a price, you sign a MOU and pay a deposit. In this and the following stages, the differences are minor. However, as a non-resident, you may need to provide additional papers, such as a certificate of no criminal record from your home country and the UAE. As for language, English documents are generally acceptable without translation. An extra benefit: buying a property valued at more than AED 750,000 can make you eligible for residency. So, besides understanding how to buy a flat in Dubai, you should also be aware of real estate costs to qualify for a legal stay in the Emirates.

Both residents and non-residents should thoroughly check all aspects of the deal. To ensure a smooth process, it is also a good idea to contact licensed agencies. One such company is discussed below.

Benefits of сooperating with Seven Lands

Are you exploring options on how to buy a home in Dubai but feel like you need expert advice and support? Seven Lands are licensed real estate brokers who work with leading developers and have extensive experience concluding transactions with UAE residents and non-residents. Our company provides comprehensive services, from purchasing apartments at the construction stage or existing properties to renovating and designing spaces, renting commercial real estate, and assistance in obtaining residency. We approach each client individually and help you achieve your goals, whether finding the ideal investment property or creating a beautiful and functional space for your family.

Leave a request on our site and partner with Seven Lands to implement your investment and personal objectives in Dubai!