Dubai is one of the few cities in the Middle East where foreign nationals can purchase freehold property. The process is clear, legally protected, and increasingly popular with international investors.
Who Can Buy?
Any nationality can buy in Dubai's designated freehold zones. These include JVC, Arjan, JVT, Dubai Marina, Downtown Dubai, Palm Jumeirah, Business Bay, and 40+ other areas.
No residency visa is required to purchase. Many buyers invest before they even move to Dubai.
Costs of Buying
| Cost | Amount |
| Dubai Land Department (DLD) transfer fee | 4% of purchase price |
| DLD admin fee | AED 580 |
| Registration trustee fee | AED 4,000 (properties >AED 500K) |
| Mortgage registration (if applicable) | 0.25% of loan amount |
| Agency commission | 2% of purchase price |
| NOC from developer | AED 500–5,000 |
Example: AED 1,200,000 apartment total buying cost ≈ AED 1,280,000 (including all fees).
The Buying Process
1. Property search — Browse verified listings at alfirouz.com/buy
2. Offer and MOU — Memorandum of Understanding signed by buyer and seller (typically 10% deposit)
3. Mortgage approval (if required) — UAE banks lend up to 80% LTV for residents, 60–75% for non-residents
4. NOC from developer — Required to confirm no outstanding service charges
5. DLD Transfer — Conducted at a RERA-approved Trustee Office; ownership transferred via e-service
6. Title deed issued — Registered in your name within 1–2 working days
The 10-Year Golden Visa
Purchase property worth AED 2,000,000 or more and you qualify for a 10-year UAE Golden Visa — giving you and your family long-term residency. This has been a significant driver of high-value property demand.
For properties below AED 2M, a 2-year investor visa is available.
Best Areas for Foreign Investors in 2025
JVC — Highest rental yields (7–9%), strong demand, affordable entry
Business Bay — Office and studio apartments, strong capital appreciation
Dubai Marina — Established, liquid market; great for short-term rentals
JVT — Emerging area, lower prices than JVC with similar fundamentals
Our agents specialise in JVC, JVT, and Arjan. Schedule a call to discuss your investment goals: +971 4 835 8084.