Buying property in Dubai is one of the easiest and most transparent processes on the international market. But many potential investors still have questions: Is it possible for foreigners to own property in Dubai and which documents are needed for the deal?
In this article, we'll figure it out under what conditions can you become an owner, which zones are available to foreigners and what a package of documents is required.
Can a foreigner own property in Dubai?
Yes, you can. Dubai is one of the few cities in the region where foreigners can fully own real estate on the basis of ownership, not just rent it for a long time.
This became possible after the release of Law No. 7 of 2006, which officially allowed foreigners to purchase real estate in specially designated areas — Freehold zones.
What is the difference between Freehold and Leasehold?
Freehold — lifetime ownership
If you are buying a property in Freehold zone, you become full owner objects for an indefinite period. You can dispose of the property at your own discretion: rent, resell, give or inherit.
Most residential complexes and new projects in Dubai are now located in Freehold zones.
Leasehold — long term rent
Zones Leasehold — these are sites where foreigners are allowed rent a property for up to 99 yearsbut not own it. At the same time, you still get the right to use, rent and even transfer the lease to another person.
Important: in recent years many neighborhoods formerly Leasehold, are converted to Freehold status — for example Studio City and plots in Al Jaddaf, where active land conversion began.
What documents do I need to buy a property in Dubai?
One of the main advantages is minimum package of documents for purchase.
An individual (resident or non-resident) requires:
• Valid international passport
• Contact details (phone number and e-mail)
• Payment details (usually bank transfer or card payment)
• In case online deals — identification via video call
That's it. No visas, employment certificates, translations or notarizations. The purchase can even be carried out remotely, without your personal presence in the Emirates — through electronic signature and digital registration (especially when buying from a developer).
Features of the deal for foreigners
• There are no restrictions on citizenship — A citizen of any country can buy real estate in Dubai.
• No personal income tax or ownership tax — there is no annual property tax.
• The possibility of obtaining a Golden Visa — when buying real estate worth more than 2 million dirhams, you can qualify for a golden resident visa for up to 10 years.
Where can I find Freehold objects?
Among the popular Freehold locations in Dubai:
• Arjan
• Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC)
• MBR City
• Al Jaddaf (partly in the process of being transferred to Freehold)
These districts are being actively developed, provided with infrastructure and provide high rental yields.
Conclusion
If you are looking to invest in Dubai or are looking for a place to live for yourself, owning real estate in the Emirates is 100% legal. Moreover, the procedure has been simplified as much as possible: a passport and a wish are enough.
The investor's task is choose a reliable developer, the right location and a professional broker, which will help you complete all the stages without mistakes.
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