In depth · Property
Buying property in Dubai: the rules for foreign buyers
What the UAE government and the Dubai Land Department say about buying in Dubai. It is general information, not legal or tax advice.
Updated October 2026
Who can buy
Under Regulation No. 3 of 2006, foreign nationals may own freehold property in designated areas of Dubai; the UAE government portal says foreigners who don’t live in the UAE and expatriate residents can acquire freehold rights there (u.ae).
The DLD’s fees
The Dubai Land Department lists a registration fee of 4% of the sale value, split on its service pages as 2% for the buyer and 2% for the seller, plus fixed title-deed and map fees. Freehold sales need the developer’s no-objection certificate. Confirm the current schedule with the DLD.
Buying off plan
Ask for the project’s DLD registration and escrow details, and check the broker’s licence through the DLD’s own services before you pay a deposit. Take independent legal advice.
Property and residence
The UAE’s long-term residence rules for property owners are set by the federal identity and citizenship authority (icp.gov.ae). Thresholds change, so we don’t quote them: check the official site.
Where people live
See our property guide for Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Marina and JBR, Downtown and Business Bay, Emirates Hills and Dubai Hills, Dubai Creek Harbour and Palm Jebel Ali, and the agencies with Dubai offices. We don’t publish prices or yields.
Questions and answers
Can a foreigner buy property in Dubai?
Yes, in the designated freehold areas, whether or not they live in the UAE (u.ae).
What are the fees?
The DLD’s registration fee is 4% of the sale value, shown as 2% buyer and 2% seller, plus fixed charges. Check the current schedule.
How do I check an off-plan project?
Ask for its DLD registration and escrow details, and verify the broker on the DLD’s services.
General information only, not legal or tax advice. Sources: u.ae and dubailand.gov.ae (checked 21 October 2026). Confirm with a qualified lawyer.