Property · Our pick in Dubai
Buying in Dubai: the back story
The back story
About Buying in Dubai: the back story
Foreign nationals can own freehold property in Dubai’s designated areas, under Regulation No. 3 of 2006 (u.ae). Every sale is registered with the Dubai Land Department (DLD), which also oversees brokers and off-plan projects.
Who can buy
Foreigners, whether resident or not, may acquire freehold ownership in the designated freehold areas (u.ae). Non-resident buyers can register with a valid passport (dubailand.gov.ae).
Fees
The DLD’s registration fee is 4% of the sale value, shown on its service pages as 2% for the buyer and 2% for the seller, plus fixed title-deed charges. Check the current schedule with the DLD before you commit.
Check every broker and project on the DLD’s own services first.
Where people buy
See our property guide for Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Marina, Downtown, Business Bay, Dubai Hills Estate, Emirates Hills, Dubai Creek Harbour and Palm Jebel Ali. We never publish prices or yields.
Before you sign
For off-plan homes, ask for the project’s DLD registration and escrow details, and take independent legal advice.
Our advice: view the communities on a weekday, then shortlist two.
Why it's on our list
- Who can buy
- Fees
- Where people buy
- Before you sign
Opening hours, prices and seasonal openings change, so please check with Buying in Dubai: the back story before you go.