Property in Dubai
Foreigners can purchase properties in Dubai located in designated freehold zones, which allow for full ownership. There is also the leasehold option, offering long-term leases of up to 99 years. Frequently, homes are sold fully furnished and finished, and buyers can purchase during the construction phase with interest-free instalment plans. With a population growth rate of 2-4% per year, modern infrastructure, and a booming tourism sector attracting over 18 million visitors annually, the demand for housing remains steady. Transparent registration through the DLD reduces legal risks, making Dubai an attractive option for investors seeking to protect their capital.
Popular freehold areas to buy property in Dubai
Palm Jumeirah: an island with upscale apartments and villas in Dubai. Many units offer private beach access, panoramic sea views, and 24/7 security. Entry to the area is controlled, and the infrastructure includes a wide range of resorts, restaurants and entertainment venues.
Dubai Marina: a high-rise community with properties in Dubai for investments and living situated along a scenic canal with a yacht harbour. Most of the housing stock consists of studios and 1- to 4-bedroom apartments. Residents have access to the metro, buses and trams. JBR beach is within walking distance.
Downtown Dubai: a central district with high-density development and skyscrapers. It features world-famous landmarks such as Burj Khalifa, Dubai Opera, Dubai Mall, metro stations and business hubs. Ideal for short-term rentals due to the constant flow of tourists.
Advantages of buying properties in Dubai
High profitability: The average rental yield of investment property in Dubai ranges between 6% and 8% annually, which is higher than in most major cities in Europe and the US. In prime locations like JVC and Arjan, yields can exceed 10%.
Fast transaction processing: Deals are typically completed within 1-2 weeks. The procedure is simple and accessible to foreigners, including remote purchases.
Property rights protection: Strict laws regulate the market. RERA and DLD oversee developers and transactions, eliminating fraud. Escrow accounts protect investments in construction projects.
Favourable tax regime: No personal income tax, capital gains tax, or real estate tax makes investments extremely profitable.
Real estate value growth. Over the past 5 years, prices of real estate for sale in Dubai’s key areas have increased by 10–55% annually. In 2024, the average growth was 11.6%, in 2023 – 14.2%, in 2022 – 21.1%, and in 2021 – 8.1%. The city continues to grow, with infrastructure, transport, tourism, and business supporting steady demand for housing.
Yes, foreign nationals are allowed to fully own any residential or commercial property for sale in Dubai, UAE, located in freehold zones. Outside of these zones, only leasehold ownership is permitted.
Purchasing houses or apartments in Dubai worth AED 750,000 (USD 204,000) or more entitles the buyer to apply for a 2-year residence visa. Investments exceeding AED 2 million (USD 544,500) qualify for a 5-year golden visa in UAE and 10-year golden visa in Dubai.
The website features over 18,000 up-to-date listings for users interested in Dubai property for sale.
- Minimum of Dubai property prices: USD 200 000
- Maximum price: USD 207 million
In Q1 2025, the following year-on-year trends were observed in price per m²:
- Primary market apartments: +4.4%
- Primary market villas: +19%
- Secondary market apartments: +4.7%
- Secondary market villas: +19.6%
Dubai Marina and Downtown Dubai boast well-developed infrastructure, accessible public transport, and closeness to key districts. For a quieter atmosphere and more affordable options, JVC or Damac Lagoons are excellent choices.
Rental yields in Arjan and JVC can exceed 8% annually. In 2024, housing prices for premium villas in Dubai Hills Estate and Arabian Ranches, as well as affordable homes in Dubailand, increased by 40.6–55.9%.
Emaar Properties, Damac Properties, and Nakheel Properties are among the most trusted by buyers.