# Buying property in Dubai as a foreigner

> Foreigners can own freehold property in designated areas of Dubai. The costs on top of the price, the steps from offer to title deed, and what changes when you buy off-plan.

- Section: Real estate › Buying property › Buying process and registration
- Last updated: 2026-10-02
- Source: https://nuzan.ai/en/knowledge/buying-property-in-dubai-as-a-foreigner

## Overview

Since 2006, foreigners can buy **freehold** property in areas of Dubai designated for foreign ownership, such as Dubai Marina, Downtown Dubai and Jumeirah Village Circle. You own the property outright and can sell, rent or pass it on.

## Requirements

A valid passport, the funds or a mortgage approval, and, if you are a UAE resident, your Emirates ID. You do not need to live in the UAE to buy.

## Costs

| Cost | Typical amount |
| - | - |
| Dubai Land Department transfer fee | **4%** of the price, usually paid by the buyer |
| Agent commission | Usually 2% of the price |
| Trustee office fee | A fixed fee per transaction |
| Mortgage registration (if you borrow) | 0.25% of the loan, plus a fixed fee |
| Developer's no-objection certificate | Charged by the developer |

Budget about **6 to 7% of the price** on top of it, before any mortgage costs.

## Timeline

A cash purchase of a ready property can complete in two to four weeks. With a mortgage, allow four to eight weeks.

## Step by step

1. Agree the price and sign the memorandum of understanding (**Form F**), usually with a 10% deposit.
2. The seller obtains a no-objection certificate from the developer.
3. Meet at a Real Estate Trustee Office to pay and transfer.
4. The Dubai Land Department issues the new **title deed** in your name.

## Buying off-plan

An off-plan purchase is registered with the developer on **Oqood**, the DLD's interim register, and your payments go into an escrow account for the project. The title deed is issued at handover.

## Recommended next step

Check the property's title deed and service charges on the Dubai REST app before you sign Form F. A property worth AED 2 million or more can also qualify you for the Golden Visa.

## Frequently asked questions

### Do I need to be a UAE resident to buy property in Dubai?

No. Non-residents can buy freehold property in designated areas with a valid passport.

### Who pays the 4% transfer fee?

By custom the buyer pays it, although buyer and seller can agree otherwise in Form F.

Arabic version: https://nuzan.ai/ar/knowledge/buying-property-in-dubai-as-a-foreigner