Dubai has become one of the most sought-after property markets in the world, attracting investors, expatriates, and lifestyle seekers alike. Its world-class infrastructure, tax-free income, and welcoming environment for foreign ownership have made it a top destination for real estate investment.
If you’re a foreigner looking to buy property in Dubai, the good news is—you can own freehold property in designated areas with full rights. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through the entire process so you can invest with confidence.
Step 1: Understand Where Foreigners Can Buy
Foreign nationals are allowed to buy, sell, and lease freehold property in areas specifically designated for foreign ownership. These areas include:
- Downtown Dubai
- Dubai Marina
- Jumeirah Lake Towers (JLT)
- Palm Jumeirah
- Business Bay
- Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC)
- Dubai Hills Estate
- Arabian Ranches, and many more
Freehold ownership gives you complete control over the property and the land it’s built on.
Step 2: Choose the Right Property
Once you’ve identified the area, consider what kind of property suits your goals:
- Residential vs. investment
- Apartment, villa, or townhouse
- Ready or off-plan (under construction)
Work with a RERA-certified real estate agency like Djany Real Estate to access verified listings and receive expert advice tailored to your budget, goals, and preferences.
Step 3: Make an Offer and Sign the Agreement
Once you’ve found the right property, it’s time to:
- Negotiate the price with the seller (through your agent)
- Sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), also known as Form F, which outlines:
- Price
- Payment schedule
- Terms and conditions
You will also pay a 10% deposit of the property value, held in trust by the agency or broker until completion.
Step 4: Arrange Financing (If Needed)
Foreigners can apply for a mortgage from UAE banks, though approval depends on your income, age, and financial history. Basic mortgage terms for non-residents include:
- Up to 50–75% financing
- Loan tenure up to 25 years
- Interest rates from 3–5%
A mortgage pre-approval helps speed up the process and shows sellers you’re serious.
Step 5: Get a No Objection Certificate (NOC)
If the property is in a building or development managed by a developer, you’ll need a No Objection Certificate (NOC) to ensure the seller has cleared all service charges and dues.
Your agent will usually handle this on your behalf by submitting a request to the developer.
Step 6: Transfer Ownership at Dubai Land Department
Once the NOC is ready, the final step is to transfer ownership:
- Go to a DLD office or trustee center
- Pay the necessary fees:
- 4% of the purchase price (DLD fee)
- AED 540 (Title Deed issuance)
- Administrative fees (AED 4,000+ depending on property value)
- Sign and complete the transaction
After payment, the buyer receives the Title Deed in their name, officially making them the new owner.
Step 7: Register Your Property
Finally, your ownership must be registered with the Dubai Land Department, and the property will be listed under your name in the official registry.
If you bought through a mortgage, the bank will keep the title deed until the loan is fully repaid.
BONUS: Residency Through Property Investment
If your property investment is AED 2 million or more, you’re eligible to apply for a UAE Golden Visa, granting you 10-year renewable residency in the UAE.
This makes Dubai an attractive choice for those looking to combine real estate with long-term lifestyle benefits.
Final Thoughts
Buying property in Dubai as a foreigner is a straightforward and well-regulated process. With the right guidance and trusted partners, you can enjoy a seamless experience and benefit from Dubai’s high rental yields, tax-free returns, and global appeal. At Djany Real Estate, we specialize in helping international buyers find, finance, and own property in Dubai. From start to finish, we’ll walk with you every step of the way.
