Middle East

 What I should know as non resident foreigner before buying real estate in United Arab Emirate  UAE

What a non resident 
Foreigner must
Know before buying 
Real estate in UAE

Non-resident foreigners can buy property in the UAE, primarily in designated freehold areas, using only a valid passport. Popular areas include Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah, and Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island. Key requirements include understanding ownership laws, paying transaction fees (usually 4-7%), and securing financing, with options for 2-year investor visas for investments over AED 750,000. 

Key Considerations for Non-Resident Buyers

Freehold vs. Leasehold:

 

Must know before 
Acquiring real estate 
In UAE

Foreigners can own property in designated freehold areas, granting permanent ownership, while leasehold areas offer long-term leases (up to 99 years).

Required Documents: 

A valid passport is the primary requirement, and purchases can be made remotely, often via a Power of Attorney (POA).

Transaction Costs: 

Beyond the property price, budget for:

Dubai Land Department (DLD)

 Fee: 

Usually 4% of the property value.

Agency Fee: 

Typically 2% of the property value.

Conveyancing Fees: 

Varies.

Financing: 

While non-resident mortgages are available, they often require higher down payments (typically 40-50%) compared to residents.

Investor Visa: 

Purchasing property worth at least AED 750,000 can qualify you for a 2-year renewable investor visa.

Location-Specific Rules: 

Abu Dhabi allows foreign ownership in specific designated zones like Yas Island and Saadiyat Island, often granting 99-year leases.

Remote Purchasing: 

You can purchase property remotely through a legally authorized representative or Power of Attorney.