Buying Guides
How to Buy Property in Dubai as a Foreigner (2026 Guide)
Freehold zones, the DLD process, fees, financing and the Golden Visa, everything an international buyer needs to know before purchasing in Dubai.
Aditya Mehrotra8 min read
Dubai is one of the world's most accessible property markets for international buyers. Here is the process from start to finish.
1. Choose a freehold area
Foreign nationals can buy in designated freehold areas, which include Palm Jumeirah, Downtown, Dubai Hills Estate, Dubai Marina and most new master communities.
2. Understand the costs
Budget roughly 4% Dubai Land Department transfer fee, 2% agency commission, plus trustee and registration fees. Mortgages are available to non-residents at up to 50–60% loan to value.
3. The transaction
A Memorandum of Understanding (Form F) is signed with a 10% deposit, followed by a No Objection Certificate from the developer and transfer at a DLD trustee office. The whole process typically takes two to four weeks for a cash purchase.
4. Golden Visa
Property worth AED 2 million or more qualifies the owner for a 10-year renewable Golden Visa.
