Buying Property in the UAE: A Complete 2025 Guide for Expats and Investors
- Radu Lupescu
- May 22
- 4 min read
Updated: Jun 2
The UAE has emerged as one of the most attractive real estate markets in the world. With a tax-free environment, world-class infrastructure, and residency benefits for property investors, buying property in the UAE is no longer limited to locals or high-net-worth individuals. Whether you’re looking to settle long-term, diversify your investments, or secure a second home, the UAE offers a transparent, well-regulated, and high-growth property market.
This guide provides a detailed breakdown of how to buy property in the UAE in 2025, including ownership laws, property types, financing options, costs, legal procedures, and the best locations to invest.
Can Expats Buy Property in the UAE?
Yes. Since 2002, the UAE has allowed foreigners to own freehold property in designated areas. The rules vary slightly between emirates:
Emirate | Can Expats Buy? | Ownership Type |
Dubai | Yes | Freehold, leasehold, usufruct (designated zones) |
Abu Dhabi | Yes (since 2019) | Freehold in select zones, otherwise 99-year leasehold |
Sharjah | Limited | 100-year leasehold only (for non-GCC nationals) |
RAK, Ajman, etc. | Yes | Freehold in special zones |
Freehold = Full ownership of land and property. Leasehold = Long-term use of property without owning the land.
Types of Properties Available
Buyers in the UAE can choose from a wide range of property types:
Apartments: Studio to penthouses in high-rises
Villas & Townhouses: Gated communities with private gardens and amenities
Off-Plan Properties: New developments under construction, offered at discounted prices
Commercial Units: Office spaces, retail units, and warehouses
Developers often offer post-handover payment plans, especially for off-plan properties.
Average Property Prices in 2025 (AED per sq.ft.)
Location | Apartment Price | Villa Price |
Dubai – Downtown | AED 2,200 – 3,500 | AED 3,000+ |
Dubai – JVC / Sports City | AED 850 – 1,100 | AED 1,000 – 1,400 |
Dubai – Palm Jumeirah | AED 3,000 – 4,500 | AED 4,500+ |
Abu Dhabi – Al Reem Island | AED 1,200 – 1,800 | AED 1,600 – 2,400 |
Sharjah – Aljada | AED 650 – 950 | AED 850 – 1,300 |
RAK – Mina Al Arab | AED 600 – 900 | AED 800 – 1,100 |
Off-plan properties typically cost 10–20% less than completed properties.
Financing Options for Expats
Expats can buy property in cash or through a mortgage. Most local and international banks in the UAE offer home financing options:
Mortgage Criteria:
Minimum salary: AED 15,000–25,000/month
Down payment: 20–25% (UAE residents), 50% (non-residents)
Maximum loan tenure: 25 years
Maximum financing: AED 5–10 million (varies by bank)
Age limit: 65 years (salaried) or 70 years (self-employed)
Pre-approval from a bank before property hunting strengthens your negotiating power.
Step-by-Step Property Buying Process
Choose a location and budget
Shortlist areas based on your purpose: investment, personal use, or rental yield.
Work with a RERA-registered agent
Especially in Dubai, licensed agents help you navigate legal and market complexities.
Sign the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)
Agreement between buyer and seller confirming price and terms. Standard form used is Form F.
Pay the deposit
Typically 10% of property value, held in escrow or by the agent.
Secure financing (if required)
Finalize bank loan approval and submit required documentation.
Transfer ownership at the DLD or local land department
Pay the remaining amount and registration fees. Title deed is issued.
Costs of Buying Property in the UAE
Expense | Estimated Cost |
Property Purchase Price | Varies (based on area & type) |
Dubai Land Department Fee | 4% of property value |
Title Deed Issuance | AED 580 |
NOC Fee (developer approval) | AED 500 – AED 5,000 (varies) |
Agency Commission | 2% of property value |
Mortgage Registration (if applicable) | 0.25% of loan amount + AED 290 |
Valuation Fee (mortgage) | AED 2,500 – AED 3,500 |
Additional charges may include admin fees, trustee fees, and service charges for apartments.
Annual Costs to Consider
Owning property in the UAE involves recurring costs:
Service Charges (for apartments or gated communities): AED 10–30 per sq.ft/year
Property Insurance (optional): AED 1,000–2,500/year
Maintenance (for villas): Variable depending on age and condition
Utility Bills: Electricity, water, internet, and district cooling
Investment Potential & Rental Yields
The UAE offers attractive rental yields and long-term capital appreciation, especially in high-demand areas:
Location | Average Rental Yield |
Dubai – JVC / Discovery Gardens | 6–8% |
Abu Dhabi – Al Reem | 5–6% |
Sharjah – Aljada | 6–7% |
Dubai – Downtown / Marina | 4–5% |
RAK – Mina Al Arab | 5–6% |
Tax-free rental income and growing tourism hubs enhance ROI for property investors.
Residency Visa for Property Owners
If you buy real estate worth AED 750,000+, you may qualify for a UAE residency visa:
Property Value | Visa Type | Duration |
AED 750,000 – 2 million | Property Investor Visa | 2 years |
AED 2 million+ | Golden Visa (property) | 10 years |
Conditions:
Must be completed (not off-plan)
Cannot be mortgaged beyond 50%
Renewable upon maintaining ownership
Spouse and children can also be sponsored under these residency schemes.
Final Thoughts
Buying property in the UAE is more than a lifestyle choice—it’s a solid investment backed by a strong legal framework, competitive pricing, and tax efficiency. With increasing opportunities for expats and non-residents, simplified visa pathways, and government-driven infrastructure development, 2025 is an excellent time to explore the real estate market in the Emirates.
Whether you’re seeking long-term residence, rental income, or capital gains, the UAE offers diverse, well-regulated property options tailored to global buyers.
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