Buying Property In Dubai

Name: Dubiz Bussiness Setup
Brand: Dubiz
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By Farwa Fatima
September 2, 2025

Dubai real estate sector overview
Types of properties in Dubai
How to buy property in Dubai?
Can foreigners buy property in Dubai?
How to finance property purchase in Dubai?
Famous locations for purchasing property in Dubai
Conclusion
Frequently Asking Questions (FAQs)

Did the thought of buying property in Dubai ever cross your mind? Whether you are someone who dreams of purchasing property in Dubai someday, or someone who has made up their mind to act, this guide will be a true gem packed with all the information you need.

Dubai’s real estate is spectacular. A global leader in modernity and technology, Dubai is always one step ahead when it comes to infrastructure. It is no surprise that it is home to the world’s tallest building, Burj Khalifa. From commercial to residential, the properties here are stunning add-ons that add more sparkle to Dubai’s dazzling skyline.

Investors from around the world are flocking to this city, and with good reason. Sweet tax breaks, unbelievably high yields, and a super laxed investment environment, make the real estate investment super profitable here. With our all-in-one detailed guide, you would be in a better position to judge the properties in Dubai and how and where to purchase. So, let us dive in!

Dubai real estate sector overview

The Dubai real estate sector is booming in its full glory. Transactions and growth are being driven by sky-high demand from investors, strong government support, and top-notch infrastructure. Dubai’s economy is flourishing, and it is pleasing to know that a major contributor to it is the property market itself.

Under the regulation of RERA (Real Estate Regulatory Agency), Dubai’s real estate market is growing and creating more opportunities for investors. Government initiatives, such as the “Real Estate Sector Strategy 2033,” further strengthen the city’s position as a leading global real estate hub.

Did you know? In the year 2024, Dubai’s real estate sector recorded a whopping AED 761 billion in transactions!

So, if you wish to own a slice of Dubai by purchasing, that could be a transformative decision for you.

Types of properties in Dubai

The major types of properties in Dubai include:

1. Residential properties:

Residential properties are simply meant for residing, which means they are prohibited from being used for commercial purposes such as shops or company warehouses.

Residential properties in Dubai further include the following types:

Studios: Studios are small, confined living spaces made for those looking for affordable options. They can be suitable for newlyweds, tourists or employees.
Apartments with multiple bedrooms: These spacious living spaces usually have multiple bedrooms, amenities, and a balcony. They may come in furnished or unfurnished forms.
Duplexes: Duplexes are basically luxury apartments that span two floors. Typically, you will find bedrooms and service rooms on one floor, and the kitchen, guest room, and living lounges on the other.
Triplexes: If you plan to move with your large family, you can opt for a triplex, which is a luxury apartment spread over three stories.
Villas: Think of Dubai, and we think of villas. Dubai villas scream luxury. As much as they offer luxury and comfort, they can be pricey as well. They feature spacious areas, lush gardens, garages and swimming pools. You can purchase a villa in a villa community. Basically, it’s a larger area where many similar kinds of villas are situated together. Besides that, the community has amenities like gyms, golf courses and shared driveways.
Townhouses: If you are looking for something more spacious than apartments but less pricey than villas, townhouses can be a great option. These spaces are in residential complexes and typically feature basic outdoor gardens and beautiful communal designs.

2. Commercial properties:

Dubai is a favourite place for entrepreneurs who keep on buying property in Dubai for business purposes. The influx of businesses drives the demand for commercial properties higher and higher.

Here are some of the common types of commercial properties in Dubai:

Offices: Office spaces are available for businesses of all types. They can be furnished or unfurnished, large or small, private or rented. The one you choose will depend on your business needs.
Business centers: Business centers are complexes that offer advanced features like spacious office spaces, security surveillance, parking areas, meeting rooms, etc. Business centers are in high footfall, business areas.
Shops: Especially meant for retail businesses, in Dubai there are a variety of shops available. You can find these in famous malls, complexes, and high business locations. These shops can be rented or purchased.
Warehouses: Certain businesses require large storage areas, and these needs are fulfilled by the warehouses in Dubai. For example, manufacturers can use the godowns to store goods before distribution.
Factories: Built-in or custom factories are available for businesses that need them. These are usually located in industrial zones and come in various sizes.
Flexi desks: These are co-working office spaces that can be shared by businesses and freelancers. This is an affordable option for those looking for flexibility and comes with all necessary amenities.

3. Land and plots:

Another popular property type in Dubai is bare land and plots. These generally fall into two main categories:

Commercial land properties: You can start from scratch by buying commercial land and developing your infrastructure on it. These plots are meant for business purposes, where you can build offices or other commercial facilities.
Mixed-use land: This type of land can be used for various purposes, such as the construction of residential properties, commercial buildings, or for investment purposes.

4. Investment properties:

Based on the stage of development, there are two broad types of investment properties in Dubai:

Off-plan properties: These properties are still under construction and not yet completed. They are an affordable option for those looking for flexible payment plans. However, there may be risks such as changes in market demand and construction delays.
Ready properties: These properties are completed and ready for immediate handover. The price can be higher, but there is less market risk associated. Ideal if you want to occupy the property right away or start earning through it immediately.

How to buy property in Dubai?

Purchasing a property, be it a house or commercial space, is a very big decision. Anyone who wishes to invest in property would want it to be well-located, well-built, and a true value for the money being spent.

Here are the steps of buying property in Dubai:

Step 1 – Evaluate your budget

Investing in a property involves a financial commitment. Therefore, it is advisable to work out your finances in advance. Your budget will play a crucial role in determining the type of property you can purchase and how you will fund it.

For example, if you have enough cash, you can pay upfront. Otherwise, you will need to explore mortgage options and understand how to obtain one.

Reviewing your budget helps you understand what you can afford and, if needed, how to secure the required funds, ensuring that the overall purchasing experience is smooth and stress-free.

Step 2 – Do property search

Dubai’s property market is vibrant and diverse, offering many investment opportunities. From villas to studios, apartments, and land, there are both budget-friendly and premium options available. The location of the properties makes them suitable for both commercial and residential purposes.

So, you must carefully check out the options available, keeping your budget and needs in mind when buying property in Dubai:

What shops are in the area?
Does the property have parking?
Is a swimming pool actually needed?
What kind of community is the property located in?
Are transport services available?

These basic questions will help you identify the ideal property you are looking for. You can explore options on investor websites in Dubai such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and Property Finder.

In this step, you will be doing your homework and exploring the market, which will open up your mind and give you an overall idea of Dubai’s real estate market.

Step 3 – Look for real estate agent

The diversity of Dubai’s real estate market can be overwhelming, what to buy, how to buy, where to buy, there can be so many questions in your head. An experienced real estate agent can make things super easy for you. Choose an agent who is registered with RERA and has solid track performance.

Whether it is looking for properties, shortlisting options, or finalizing the deal, they assist in every step. Plus, you can discuss your budget and needs with them, and they will recommend to you the communities and properties that will match your needs.

Step 4 – Get pre approval for mortgage, if needed

Financing the property through mortgage requires you to get pre approval from the bank. It confirms your eligibility to borrow, and you can show the same to sellers while making an offer. You can speak to a mortgage advisor and check out the financing options available.

Step 5 – View properties

Now that you have a tentative list of properties, you can visit them in person. Your agent will assist you and arrange the viewings for you. Seeing the properties firsthand gives you a much better idea of what you are investing in. Take your time with this step, view multiple properties so that you have a range of options and can choose the best one for your needs.

Step 6 – Make offer

By this stage, you will have done plenty of research on properties and market prices, so you should feel confident making an offer for the desired property. Your agent can advise you and submit the offer on your behalf. You can negotiate with the seller and find mutual terms.

If you plan to buy property in Dubai with a mortgage, you must submit a pre-approval letter along with your offer to give the seller confidence. Additionally, a deposit is usually required which is typically 20%-25% for expats and 15% for UAE citizens.

Step 7 – Sign the MOU

Once you finalize the price with the seller, both parties can formally sign an agreement, known as the MOU (Memorandum of Understanding) or Form F. This is a formal sales agreement that outlines the basic terms and conditions of the property sale, including the agreed price, payment plan, and other key details. This agreement becomes legally binding on both the buyer and the seller.

Step 8 – Finalize mortgage, if needed

Approach the bank and finalize the mortgage agreement. Banks in Dubai offer financing options to expats as well, although they may require a larger portion of the down payment.

Before granting a mortgage, banks will evaluate several factors, including:

Your income
The down payment amount
Your credit score

To secure a mortgage, you will need to submit a valid passport, visa or Emirates ID, along with proof of income. Additional documents may also be required, depending on the bank’s policies.

Step 9 – Sign the final sales contract

At this stage, you will sign the final Sales and Purchase Agreement (SPA), a legally binding contract between you and the seller. Both parties typically meet at the Dubai Land Department (DLD) to sign the agreement.

Step 10 – Register and transfer the property

Once the SPA is signed, the property is registered with the DLD. You will receive the title deed in your name, officially completing the legal transfer of ownership.

Step 11 – Set up the utilities

Now that you have the property transferred legally in your name, you must set up the utilities such as water, electricity, and other. For utilities and services, you can reach out to DEWA.

And with that, you can start using the property be it for residency or for commercial purposes!

Can foreigners buy property in Dubai?

Yes, foreigners can buy property in Dubai. Here are the key facts related to legal requirements:

There are no age or residency restrictions for foreign investors.
Foreigners can purchase freehold properties in designated zones without the need for a visa or local sponsor, which means they can get complete ownership.
Foreigners can purchase off-plan units as well as ready properties.
No visa is required. In fact, investing above a certain threshold may qualify you for a long-term residence visa.
Foreigners must hold a valid passport.
Foreigners can apply for a mortgage, but the requirements may differ from those for UAE nationals and vary by bank.

How to finance property purchase in Dubai?

Many well-known banks in Dubai offer easy mortgage facilities to those looking for financial support when buying property in Dubai. The steps for securing mortgage as a foreigner include:

Get the pre-approval before you start property hunting.
Submit the documents along with mortgage application with bank after selecting a lender.
The bank will conduct a property evaluation.
The bank will approve the mortgage and issue the offer including loan amount, tenure, and interest.
The bank will coordinate with the property seller and DLD as needed.

Typical documents required for mortgage application in UAE:

Valid passport
Income proof such as salary slips
Recent bank statements
Credit report from home country
Current residency proof
Down payment proof

Famous locations for purchasing property in Dubai

Wondering where to buy property in Dubai? Here are some famous locations for property investment in Dubai:

1. Downtown Dubai:

Downtown Dubai is the heart of the city and offers stunning apartments and penthouses. It is home to Dubai’s most famous attractions, including Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, The Dubai Fountain, and Emaar Boulevard.

It is a great location for both residential and commercial property investment in Dubai, offering lucrative and high-potential investment opportunities.