Dubai remains a global hotspot for real estate investors and with over 1,000 people relocating to Dubai and calling it home everyday¹, we thought we’d put together a quick guide on buying property in the Emirates in 2025.

As of 2025, foreigners can purchase freehold properties in designated areas, offering 100% ownership and eligibility for long-term residency through the Golden Visa program. This is the safest and easiest way of securing a place in Dubai where residents can remain at ease with respect to their visas to live and work here.

Can Foreigners Buy Property in Dubai?

Yes. Since 2002, Dubai has allowed foreigners to buy freehold properties in specific zones such as Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, and Palm Jumeirah. Buyers can invest in off-plan projects, ready properties, or commercial spaces.

Key Steps to Buy Property as a Foreigner

1. Select Property & Location
   Choose freehold communities and property types matching your investment or living goals.
   
2. Hire RERA Certified Agent
   Ensure your agent is registered with RERA (Real Estate Regulatory Authority).
   
3. Sign MOU / Contract F & Pay Deposit
   Secure the deal with a 10% deposit upon signing the contract F, an electronic MOU between buyer and seller issued by the Dubai Land Department.
   
4. Obtain NOC & Register with DLD
   Get an NOC (No Objection Certificate) from the developer and register the transaction at the Dubai Land Department (DLD).
   
5. Title Deed & Handover
   After completion, receive your title deed and take possession of the property.
   

Costs to Consider

These are the costs to consider when buying a property in Dubai. You can read a step by step guide on how to buy a property in Dubai here.

Expense	Cost Estimate
DLD Fee	4% of property price
Agent Commission	2% of property price
Mortgage Fees (optional)	~1% of loan amount
Annual Service Charges	Varies by community

Popular Areas for Foreign Buyers

Area	Average Price Per Sq Ft (AED / sq.ft)
Downtown Dubai	2,300
Dubai Marina	1,900
Palm Jumeirah	2,800

Source: Dubai Land Department, April 2025

Golden Visa for Property Investors in Dubai (Updated 2025)

Foreigners purchasing property in Dubai are eligible for the UAE Golden Visa, offering 10-year renewable residency. You can read more about the Golden Visa program here.

Requirements:

• Minimum property value: AED 2 million (can be mortgaged under certain conditions).
  
• Property must be completed (off-plan is not eligible).
  
• Joint ownership allowed if each owner’s share is AED 2 million or more.
  

Benefits:

• 10-year renewable residency.
  
• Eligible to sponsor spouse, children (any age), and domestic staff.
  
• Full flexibility to live, work, and study in the UAE.
  

Renewal Conditions:

• Retain ownership of qualifying property.
  
• No mandatory minimum stay in the UAE per year.
  
• Ensure property remains in the investor’s name upon renewal.
  

Process:

1. Apply through Dubai Land Department (DLD) or ICP portal.
   
2. Submit title deed, passport, and Emirates ID.
   
3. Visa approval issued by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP).
   
4. Medical and Emirates ID issuance.
   

Departments to Coordinate With:

• Dubai Land Department (DLD) for property validation.
  
• ICP (Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship) for visa processing.
  
• Dubai Economy and Tourism (DET) if needed for business licensing linked to the visa.
  

Conclusion

Buying property in Dubai as a foreigner in 2025 offers both a lucrative investment and a secure path to long-term residency. With simplified procedures, attractive payment plans, and the added benefit of the UAE Golden Visa, Dubai remains one of the best global destinations for property buyers. For verified property video tours and listings, visit Viewit.ae.

1. https://www.thenationalnews.com/business/property/2025/05/03/dubai-housing-rents-property/ ↩︎