Can A Foreigner Buy Property In Dubai?

Dubai is an attractive marketplace for property, with new developments like the beautiful Ghaf Woods adding new layers of luxurious living to the city. But are these gorgeous developments exclusive to UAE citizens, or can foreigners purchase property in Dubai?

In this article, we’ll look at how easy it is to buy property in Dubai as a non-resident and what you need to know before you sign a contract on a new home in the sun.

Who Can Buy Property in Dubai? Understanding Foreign Ownership Laws

As with other cities around the world, foreign nationals can buy property in Dubai, provided they meet specific criteria. There is a choice between freehold and leasehold ownership, although there are restrictions on where you can buy freehold property, which we'll examine in the next section.

The key laws governing foreign ownership of property in Dubai are regulated primarily by the Dubai Land Department. The main ones you need to be aware of are:

• Real Property Registration Law No.7 (2006) which clearly defines the terms of freehold and leasehold ownership.
• Law No. 27, or the Strata Law, which governs joint ownership properties and covers maintenance responsibilities and service charges in jointly owned buildings.
• Dubai Land Department regulations are in place to protect both buyers and sellers by ensuring complete transparency in all property dealings.
  

Where Can Foreigners Buy Property in Dubai?

If you are a foreign national, even if you currently hold a visa to reside in Dubai, there are restrictions on where you can purchase freehold property. Freehold gives you full ownership rights, allowing you to buy, sell, or lease a property, which is ideal if you want to generate an income stream from rental revenue.

However, freehold properties can only be purchased in designated freehold areas as outlined by the Dubai government. These areas include Downtown Dubai close to the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Marina, and green, family-focused developments around the city like Ghaf Woods.

If you want to buy a leasehold property, there are fewer restrictions on where you can purchase one. However, be aware that leases typically last for 99 years (although some can be shorter) while the land remains in the hands of the original landlord or the government.

Types of Properties Available to Foreign Buyers in Dubai

In addition to freehold and leasehold properties, there are other options available for foreign ownership in real estate. The market offers a variety of choices spread across the city.

Off-plan properties are increasingly popular, especially in some of the larger, family-focused communities like Ghaf Woods. Not only are they more cost-effective than existing opportunities, but they often include flexible payment plans, making these particular Dubai properties for expats even more affordable.

With the boom in tourism, investing in Airbnb-style apartments and homes is also a financially viable option, generating a healthy revenue stream if you are buying property in Dubai as a non-resident.

Benefits of Buying Property in Dubai as a Foreigner

Dubai is keen to encourage expats to consider this exciting city their new home, and as such freehold property in Dubai is surprisingly well-priced and tempting for both investors and those who intend to live and work in the Emirate. Foreign ownership in Dubai's real estate has increased significantly over the past few years, with new developments in the designated freehold areas being highly sought after by expatriates.

The reason Dubai is so keen to attract foreign investors is simple: the city is very popular, safe and expanding rapidly. With a high standard of living, exceptional properties on offer, and laws designed to protect buyers and sellers, the stability of the property market is incredibly reassuring for investors. Another particularly attractive element is the fact that there is no property tax in Dubai, allowing investors to maximise their revenue returns, especially on rentals – although bear in mind there are other costs, such as the one-time 4% DLD registration fee, admin fees and ongoing service charges.

Buying property in Dubai as a non-resident also opens up the door for residency visa eligibility. Investing AED 2m or more can make it possible for an expat to apply for a Golden Visa and the reassurance of long-term residency.

Ghaf Woods Dubai investment opportunities reflect the best of all worlds. A fabulous development that seamlessly integrates luxury and nature creates a true community based on sustainable living principles

 

You can find out more about Ghaf Woods by downloading our brochure or contact us for more information on expat life in one of the world's most dynamic cities.