Buying Property in Dubai — A Complete Guide

Who can buy property in Dubai?

Non-UAE nationals can purchase property in Dubai in designated freehold areas. The Dubai Land Department (DLD) maintains the definitive list of freehold zones — verify any specific location's status with DLD before proceeding. Ownership rights in freehold zones are the same as those available to UAE nationals in those areas.

Freehold and leasehold zones

Dubai has two main ownership types for non-nationals: freehold (full ownership of the property and land within designated areas) and leasehold (ownership for a fixed term, typically up to 99 years). Most modern off-plan developments are located in freehold zones. Always confirm the ownership type with the developer and verify the project's DLD permit number.

The buying process — step by step

1. Define your goal and budget. Are you buying to live in, to let, or as a long-term investment? Each influences which areas and property types suit you. Your budget in AED should include purchase costs on top of the property price.
2. Choose an adviser. Use a RERA-registered broker with a published BRN. This protects you if a dispute arises.
3. Search and shortlist. Review verified listings. JSS provides brochure-backed details with a verification date on every project we discuss.
4. Viewing and due diligence. For ready properties, visit in person. For off-plan, visit a showroom or review developer materials. Check the project's DLD permit status at dubailand.gov.ae.
5. Offer and MOU. For secondary market (ready) properties, an MOU (Memorandum of Understanding) is signed between buyer and seller, typically with a 10% deposit held in trust. For off-plan, you sign a booking form and pay a reservation deposit (amount varies by developer).
6. NOC (for secondary market). The developer must issue a No Objection Certificate confirming the property is free of outstanding service-charge arrears.
7. Transfer at the DLD trustee office. The official title deed transfer happens at a DLD-approved trustee office, in person or through an authorised PoA. Fees are paid at this stage.
8. Title deed. You receive your title deed — the official proof of ownership registered with the DLD.

Transaction fees and costs

See our dedicated Dubai property fees guide for a detailed breakdown. As a summary: DLD transfer fee is 4% + AED 580, trustee office fee is AED 2,100–4,200, agency fee is typically 2% + VAT, mortgage registration (if applicable) is 0.25% + AED 290, and a valuation fee applies for mortgage purchases. These figures are based on published DLD rates as of August 2026 — always confirm current figures.

Mortgages and financing

UAE banks offer mortgages to both residents and non-residents, subject to their eligibility criteria. UAE Central Bank regulations set minimum down-payment requirements (these vary for residents versus non-residents and first-purchase versus second-property buyers). LTV limits, interest rates, and eligible property types vary by lender. JSS can introduce you to independent mortgage advisers — approval is subject to the lender's assessment and we make no guarantee of approval.

After purchase

Once you own a property, you are responsible for service charges (communal maintenance, managed by a DLD-approved owners' association). If you plan to rent the property out, you must register the tenancy contract via Ejari (Dubai's official tenancy registration system). For short-term rental, DTCM (Dubai Tourism) permits are required. JSS can provide an orientation on these processes — detailed property management advice should be sought from a licensed property manager.