Adil Raza Khan | March 29, 2025
One of the most common questions from expats and non-residents is if they can buy property in Dubai. And the answer is yes, absolutely. Generally, Dubai has opened its doors to foreign investors and has implemented regulations that attract global investments. Understandably, these investment opportunities for foreigners are also met with certain conditions.
Let’s dive into the details.
In Dubai, foreigners and expatriate residents are allowed to purchase and have rights in areas known as freehold zones.
In essence, there are two ownership rights in Dubai, freehold and leasehold.
Consequently, most foreign investors opt for freehold ownership rights, while some prefer short-term leasehold ownership. Additionally, there is no age limit for owning a property in Dubai for foreigners.
Freehold areas and leasehold areas are the main choices where foreigners buy property in Dubai. To add, the type of properties that you buy will reflect on your investment goals. Let’s take a look at the two main options.
Freehold property in Dubai for foreigners is the most popular choice because they offer 100% ownership of both the property and the land it’s built on. As the owner, you can lease, sell, or modify the property as you please. Accordingly, these freehold areas are designated by the Dubai Land Department. Some of the most sought-after Dubai freehold areas are:
Freehold zones are typically located in well-connected areas close to essential destinations.
If you’re buying a property in Dubai but are not looking for full ownership, the leasehold properties are a good option. In contrast to freehold properties, you do not own the property or land in a leasehold area. However, you are entitled to use and benefit from it for up to 99 years. After which, the ownership will revert back to the freehold owner. Additionally, you will not be able to change or remodel the property without permission from the freeholder.
Popular leasehold zones where foreigners buy property in Dubai include:
Yes. Foreigners can buy commercial properties in Dubai, whether that be office spaces, retail units, industry facilities, and more. Similarly, commercial properties in Dubai are also categorized between freezone areas and leasehold areas. The freezone areas like Business Bay and Jebel Ali grant foreigners full ownership rights for commercial properties. Meanwhile, leasehold zones such as Dubai Investment Park and Dubai Industrial City only permit limited rights on commercial properties for up to 99 years.
Buying properties through mortgages is not only for Emiratis because foreigners can buy properties in Dubai through mortgages. However, there are several general conditions you need to know before applying for a mortgage.
Some banks only give mortgages from their list of approved projects and developers.
In essence, foreigners can buy properties in Dubai and have two types of ownership options. Freehold and leasehold have their own benefits and considerations that you need to take into account. Additionally, you can even invest in residential or commercial properties and apply for a mortgage. Since its implementation of new rules in 2002, Dubai has opened up a more welcoming real estate market for non-UAE nationals. The city is bound for more changes and more advantageous property laws for foreigners. Hence, now is a great time for foreigners to buy property in Dubai. Plus, with a reliable partner like APIL Properties, you can ensure a simple and trusty process.
Foreigners can buy properties in freehold or freezone areas and leasehold areas. Depending on your investment goal, you can opt for full ownership rights or a limited ownership option.
Yes. Foreigners can buy properties for business purposes.
Yes. Foreigners can have up to an 80% mortgage to buy property in Dubai. Additionally, there are certain conditions that investors have to meet before getting a mortgage. This includes age limit, monthly income, specific developers and projects, and the country of origin.
Buying property in Dubai? But not sure where to start?
Confused about what steps to take, what rules apply, or how to avoid costly pitfalls and frauds—especially with all the recent updates in buying, transferring, and registering property?
Relax; we have you covered.
Whether you are an international investor or a first-time buyer, this book streamlines the whole property purchase process in Dubai and enables you to cleverly and naturally negotiate it.
If you want to buy property in Dubai, know that it is a simple process, but there are certain things to be aware of before to making such purchase to guarantee a seamless ownership for not just residents, but also expats. Dubai property has seen a boom in non-resident buyers in recent years; the issue of can foreigners buy property in Dubai often emerges. Of course!
Buying a property in Dubai might be a wise investment, but first, you need to do thorough research before making any commitment. Still, before making a purchase, one must first grasp the process—which includes lots like legal criteria, ownership styles, registration procedures, and expenses. Make sure you grasp the down payment criteria, the fees for buying property in Dubai, and the procedures for property registration.
In the real estate domain, Dubai is 85% cheaper than New York, 70% cheaper than Central London, 80% cheaper than Sydney and 75% cheaper than Paris.
Still, this desert city yields a 10-15% rental yield that makes all investors struck dumb globally. Dubai’s real estate is a fascinating subject that allures many.
From luxury property enthusiasts buying property for sale in Dubai to stay lavishly or to make it their golden goose through smart investments, everyone eyes on the real estate in this desert city.
The miraculous investment yields are possible for its
One thing that you witness widely the moment you step in Dubai is the EMAAR banners and logo adorning maximum iconic buildings and major highways. Yes, it is!
Emaar Properties has carved a niche for themselves in the domain of Dubai real estate. Luxury living at its best is best experienced with their projects, indeed! Every Dubai property enthusiast knows the fact that one waits for Emaar projects in Dubai and never the vice-versa.
This leading real estate developer in Dubai has to it’s credit Dubai Opera, Burj Khalifa, The Address Hotels & Resorts, Dubai Hills Mall, Dubai Mall, Souk Al Bahar and multiple Golf & Yacht Clubs.
Emaar has planned and exquisitely crafted several Luxury Emaar real estate developments in Dubai. We would try to cover a few residential projects from a pool of their pride here.
