Everything You Need to Know
Before Investing in Dubai

Yes. Since 2002, foreign nationals of any residency status can buy freehold property in designated areas across Dubai — including Downtown, Marina, Palm Jumeirah, Business Bay, and most new-build communities. No UAE residency or visa is required to purchase.

No. Many international investors complete the entire process remotely through a Power of Attorney, with Shylesh and the Nexus Elite team handling viewings (virtual or in-person), documentation, and registration on your behalf.

You reserve a unit, sign a Sale and Purchase Agreement (SPA) with the developer, and pay in installments per the payment plan. Funds are held in an RERA-regulated escrow account under Law No. 8 of 2007, released to the developer only as construction milestones are met.

There is no annual property tax. Owners pay a service charge (building maintenance, typically AED 10–25 per sq ft annually depending on the community and amenities) and DEWA utility connection fees. There is no capital gains tax on resale.

Yes. Several UAE banks offer mortgages to non-resident foreign buyers, typically up to 50–60% loan-to-value, compared to up to 80% for UAE residents. Shylesh can connect you with banking partners for financing guidance.

The standard DLD property transfer fee is 4% of the purchase price, plus a fixed administrative fee. This is typically paid at the time of registering the property in your name.

Investing AED 2,000,000 or more in ready Dubai property (fully paid, DLD-registered) qualifies you for a 10-year renewable Golden Visa covering you, your spouse, and children. See our full Golden Visa guide for the complete eligibility and process breakdown.

Dubai has one of the most regulated real estate markets in the region — RERA oversight, mandatory escrow accounts for off-plan projects, and a transparent DLD registration system. Combined with 0% capital gains and income tax, it is widely regarded as a secure entry point for global investors.

Off-plan property is purchased under construction, usually at a lower entry price with a staged payment plan and stronger capital appreciation potential. Ready property is immediately available for use or rental and qualifies for the Golden Visa route without waiting for handover.

Yields vary by community and property type, generally ranging 6–9% gross across Dubai — among the highest of any major global city. Areas like Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC) have historically delivered yields toward the higher end of that range due to strong rental demand and liquidity.

Yes, this is known as an 'assignment' or resale. It generally requires developer No Objection Certificate (NOC) and a minimum percentage of the purchase price already paid — requirements vary by developer and project.

No. The UAE has no restrictions on repatriating rental income, sale proceeds, or capital out of the country, and there is no currency control on outbound transfers.