Can Expats Buy a Property in Dubai?

In 2002, the government of Dubai passed laws allowing expats and foreigners to own real estate in the freehold areas of Dubai. This initiative has transformed Dubai's real estate landscape and made it a global hub for property investment. Due to the healthy ROI, diverse properties, and regulations, this question is often asked: Can expats buy property in Dubai?’ The answer is yes! This blog will discuss everything you need to know about expats buying a property in Dubai and reaping the benefits of investing in Dubai’s real estate. 

What Are The Eligibility Criteria For Expats Buying Property In Dubai?

It is legal for foreigners to invest in the Dubai property market, but this is subject to certain laws and regulations for foreign investors. Article 3 of Regulation No. 3 (2006) describes areas where foreigners can purchase freehold properties. Purchasing a property in Dubai as a foreigner also means you can access mortgages from banks in the UAE. However, they would have few choices regarding which bank to buy from, and the rates could differ based on aspects like monthly income. Another consideration will be whether the buyer resides in the UAE or another country. It is worth noting that there is no age limit for foreigners purchasing property in Dubai.

Some paperwork and requirements must be submitted to obtain a mortgage. 

For Salaried Persons

• Passport and Emirates ID
• Salary certificate addressed to Emirates NBD
• Bank statement for the last 6 months
• Pay slips for the last 6 months, if pay varies more than 10%

For Self-Employed Persons

• Passport and Emirates ID
• Copy of Trade License
• MOA (Memorandum of Association)
• Bank statement for the last 6 months
• Audited company financials for the last two years

Top Areas for Foreigners to Buy Property in Dubai

According to the Dubai Sales Market Report 2025, the top areas for property investments are Dubai Marina, Downtown Dubai, Business Bay, Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC) and DAMAC Hills 2. These freehold areas allow foreign buyers and offer both affordable and luxury real estate options.

Here are some popular areas for off-plan projects in Dubai:

Dubai Creek Harbour

Dubai Creek Harbour is a major real estate project located along the banks of the iconic Dubai Creek. The masterplan community is the result of a collaboration between two of Dubai's strongest development companies: Emaar Properties and Dubai Holding. The project is under the tagline "Discover life at the source" and is situated near the Ras Al Khor Natural Reserve. Some of its off-plan projects are: Creek Palace (Q1 2026), Creek Waters (Q3 2027) and Aeon Towers (Q2 2028).

Dubai Hills Estate

Dubai Hills Estate is one of Dubai's most sought-after residential communities, boasting a legacy of quality living and an exceptional location. Developed by Emaar Properties, a real estate giant behind landmarks such as Downtown Dubai and the Burj Khalifa, this master development offers an integrated blend of residential, commercial, and leisure spaces. The off-plan projects of Dubai Hills Estate are Emaar Palace Residences (Q2 2028), Golf Hillside (Q4 2028), and Address Residences (Q1 2029).

Dubai South

Dubai South, originally launched in 2006 as "The Centre of Tomorrow," is a multi-phase development conceived under the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The master-planned community was later rebranded as Dubai South in 2015. The current off-plan projects in Dubai South are Azizi Vince (Q2-2026).

Damac Island

DAMAC Islands is located in Dubailand. It is a master-planned residential development by DAMAC Properties. This expansive project, covering over 30 million sq. ft., will consist of six distinct artificial islands. DAMAC Islands will offer a variety of waterfront properties, including luxurious villas and townhouses, complemented by extensive open spaces, landscaped areas, and recreational zones. Some of its off-plan projects are Maldives at Damac Island (Q4 2028), Seychelles (2027), Bora Bora (Q4 2028), and Damac Riverside (Q4 2027)

Emaar South

Emaar South in Dubai South is a popular residential area developed by Emaar Properties. It has about 23,000 homes and 20 parks. You can find different types of houses, such as apartments, villas, and townhomes, in its ten residential areas. There's also a lot of shopping, with 53,000 sq. m. of retail space, and a large 18-hole golf course. Off-plan projects in Emaar South are Expo Golf Villas 6 (Q4 2025), Fairway Villas (Q3 2026), and Golf Point Tower (Q4 2028).

Jebel Ali Village

Jebel Ali Village, in southern Dubai's Jebel Ali area, is a new housing project by Nakheel Properties that started on March 17, 2022. It's a family-friendly place with villas and townhouses surrounded by green areas and small hills. The entire area is large, about 800,000 square meters, and is divided into four smaller neighbourhoods. Even though it's not located in the busy city centre, it's easy to get to because it's close to Sheikh Zayed Road (E11), a main road. Its current off-plan projects are Azizi Aura Phase 2 (Q4 2026), BellaTrix Hotel (Q3 2026), Palm Jebel Ali Fronds Villas (Q4 2026), and V1stara House (Q4 2026).

Types of Real Estate Ownership for Dubai Expats

There are two types of ownership that an expat can have in Dubai’s real estate.

Leasehold Property Ownership

Leasehold property ownership means that the property can only be leased by its owner for 10 to 99 years. In this type of ownership, the buyer only has the right to the unit and not the property's land. Suppose the buyer wants to change the property, such as remodelling, repairments, alterations or anything else. In that case, he/she has to get permission from the freehold owner of the property. Some popular leasehold areas for expats are Jumeirah, Al Barsha, Mirdif, and Al Warqaa.

Freehold Property Ownership

In Freehold property ownership, the buyer has complete ownership of the property, including the land on which the unit stands. Dubai Land Department will register the property in the new owner's name and grant the title deed. Then, it is up to the new owner to lease, sell, or occupy the property as they wish. Expats can buy a property in freehold areas specified by Dubai’s government, including Dubai Hills Estate, Downtown Dubai, Arabian Ranches and Dubai Marina.

Why Expats Should Buy Properties in Dubai?

There are various reasons why an expat should buy a property in Dubai. Investing in Dubai's real estate sector can bring the following benefits to expats.

Competitive Property Prices

One of the biggest advantages of buying a property in Dubai is that it offers competitive property prices compared to those in major cities worldwide. For expats, this can help you get more value for your money and enjoy a high-end lifestyle with excellent infrastructure in Dubai. That is why Dubai is a hotspot for buying luxury properties worldwide.

High Rental Yields For Properties

When expats or foreign investors buy properties in Dubai, they can benefit from the higher return on investment (ROI) and rental yields on their investments. For example, a villa in Dubai can offer a healthy return on investment (ROI) of up to 8%, while an apartment can have an average rental yield of up to 11%.

The Tax-Free System

Dubai's tax-free environment can be very lucrative for expats who want to invest or buy a property there. Currently, there is no tax on the purchase of property or rental income, which allows foreign investors to gain handsome returns on their investments.

Tips for Expats

Here are some tips for expats before buying property:

• Seek legal advice to understand Dubai’s property laws.
• Be aware of currency exchange rates for purchase costs.
• Visit Dubai, if possible, to inspect properties.
• Consider off-plan properties for payment plans.
• Understand service and maintenance fees.
• Evaluate the property's resale potential.
• Familiarise yourself with local customs for transactions.

Conclusion

Foreigners can easily buy property in Dubai! It's not a complicated process at all. If you're an expat looking to make Dubai your home, buying property is a fantastic choice. Dubai's real estate market is known for being diverse and stable, and is expected to continue growing. Plus, depending on the property's worth, it can be a great path for expats to gain citizenship in the future. So, if you're thinking about settling down in Dubai, buying property is a smart move!

If you are an expat looking to buy a property in Dubai, contact us now. 

Related blogs: Property Ownership for Foreigners in Sharjah