Buying property in Dubai as a foreigner: costs, process and the Golden Visa
Freehold areas, the 4% DLD fee, off-plan payment plans and the AED 2 million Golden Visa route: what foreign buyers need to know.
Foreigners can buy freehold property in designated areas of Dubai, with or without a UAE residence visa. Many buyers complete the purchase remotely through a power of attorney.
The costs on top of the price
- Dubai Land Department transfer fee: 4% of the purchase price
- Registration fee, usually a few thousand dirhams
- Agent commission, commonly 2%
- Mortgage registration of 0.25% of the loan, if you finance
- Developer NOC fees on resale properties
- Together, often around 7 to 8% of the price
Ready or off-plan
- Ready property: rental income from day one and a title deed at transfer
- Off-plan property: staged payment plans, registered under Oqood until the title deed is issued
- Off-plan check: the developer's track record, escrow arrangements and handover dates
The Golden Visa route
Property worth at least AED 2 million, off-plan or complete, can qualify the owner for a 10-year Golden Visa. Several properties can be combined to reach the threshold.
For property businesses
If you are a broker, developer or property manager targeting foreign buyers, your customers research online in their own language long before they call. Country-specific pages, fast WhatsApp replies and content that AI assistants can cite decide who gets the enquiry.
Common questions
Can foreigners buy property in Dubai?
Yes, in designated freehold areas, with or without a residence visa.
What fees do I pay when buying property in Dubai?
Mainly the 4% Dubai Land Department transfer fee, a registration fee and usually a 2% agent commission. Together, buyers often budget around 7 to 8% of the price.
Rules, fees and processes change. Confirm the details with the relevant authority or a licensed adviser before you commit.
