Foreigners and expatriate residents have the opportunity to purchase property in the UAE, as outlined by the UAE’s government portal. Under Law No. 7 of 2006 on Real Estate Registration in the Emirate of Dubai, non-UAE nationals can own freehold land and property in designated areas specified by the Ruler of Dubai.
According to the Dubai Land Department (DLD), freehold ownership allows for absolute and unrestricted property rights, including the land and all buildings on it. Foreign nationals can acquire various real estate interests, such as musataha, usufruct, and long-term leases up to 99 years.
- Musataha: Allows the owner to invest in and construct on another party’s land for up to 50 years, after which the land reverts to the original owner.
- Usufruct: Permits the use and benefit of another’s property for up to 99 years, after which ownership returns to the original owner.
Designated Areas for Foreign Ownership
The DLD lists several areas in Dubai where foreigners can own freehold property, including:
- The Palm Jumeirah
- The World Islands
- Downtown Dubai
- Old Town
- Burj Khalifa
- Business Bay
- Dubai Marina
- Emirates Hills
- Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT)
- Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR)
- Discovery Gardens
- Arabian Ranches
- Mirdif (specified plots)
- Dubai Investment Park (DIP)
- Falcon City
- Dubai Sports City
- Dubai Motor City
- International City
- Jumeirah Islands & Jumeirah Village
For a comprehensive list, contacting the DLD is recommended.
Steps to Buying Property
Legal Due Diligence
Before purchasing, it’s crucial to confirm the property ownership and ensure it’s free of mortgages or liens. This can be verified at a DLD office or through DLD’s online services.
Sale and Purchase Agreement
Download the sale contract from the DLD website, conduct legal due diligence, and then draft and sign the agreement.
Property Registration
To register the sale, visit a Real Estate Registration Trustees service center or use the Dubai REST smart application. Required documents include:
- No-objection e-certificate (E.NOC) from the developer in freehold areas
- Emirates ID or valid passport for non-residents
- Legal power of attorney, if applicable
- Registration application for unregistered companies
Fees for the process vary based on the property’s value and other factors, including service fees and knowledge and innovation fees.
Submit the required documents, pay the fees, and receive the necessary documents via email or through the Dubai REST app. These documents may include the e-Certificate of Title, title deed, usufruct right e-certificate, provisional sale contract, and fee balances.
Purchasing property in the UAE is accessible to foreigners and expatriates, provided they follow the legal procedures and guidelines set by the Dubai Land Department. By conducting thorough due diligence and understanding the requirements, buyers can successfully navigate the property market in Dubai.
