Dubai is confidently moving towards the status of a completely cashless city. As part of the strategy Cashless Dubai, by 2026, up to 90% of all payments in the emirate will be made digitally. This step is part of the city's long-term economic and technological development and has a direct impact on the real estate market in the UAE.

Why cashless Dubai is important for the real estate market

The transition to digital payments increases the transparency of financial transactions, speeds up transactions and simplifies interaction between buyers, developers and government agencies. For Dubai's real estate market, this means:

• faster real estate sales transactions;
• simplified payments when buying real estate in freehold zones;
• convenient payment of registration fees, taxes and public services;
• increasing the investment attractiveness of the emirate.

Non-cash payments for residents and foreign investors

The digitalization of financial transactions is especially important for foreign investors and property buyers in Dubai. Visa payments, renewal of resident statuses, Golden Visa registration and real estate maintenance will be increasingly transferred to the online format.

This reduces administrative barriers and makes real estate investments in the UAE even more convenient and safe.

Tourism, rental and commercial real estate

The transition to a cashless economy will also affect the tourism sector, including short-term real estate rentals, hotels and serviced apartments. For investment property owners, this means:

• simplified payments to tenants;
• increasing demand from tourists focused on digital services;
• improving service standards in residential and commercial facilities.

Dubai is one of the leaders in the digital economy

Cashless Dubai's strategy complements the city's existing smart city, fintech and sustainability initiatives. Together with transparent legislation, no personal income tax and a stable real estate market, this strengthens Dubai's position as one of the most attractive destinations for living and investing.

The transition to a cashless model is another step towards creating a high-tech, convenient and safe environment for property buyers, investors and residents of the emirate.