Buy an Apartment in Dubai

Yes. Buyers of any nationality can own apartments outright in Dubai's designated freehold areas — including Dubai Marina, Downtown Dubai, Business Bay, JVC and Palm Jumeirah — with title registered at the Dubai Land Department. UAE residency is not required to buy.

Budget for the Dubai Land Department transfer fee of 4% of the price, a trustee/registration fee, agency commission (typically 2%), and mortgage registration and valuation fees if you finance. Off-plan purchases pay the DLD fee at registration of the sale agreement. Confirm current fee schedules before transfer.

It depends on the goal. JVC, Arjan and Dubai South suit yield-focused budgets; Dubai Marina, JLT and Business Bay have the deepest rental demand and resale liquidity; Downtown Dubai, Palm Jumeirah and Dubai Hills Estate suit buyers prioritising address, views and long-term capital value.

Property worth AED 2 million or more can qualify the owner for the 10-year UAE Golden Visa, subject to current eligibility rules. Lower-value purchases may qualify for a shorter property-investor visa. Check the latest criteria with the relevant authority before relying on it.

A ready apartment can be rented or lived in immediately and is easier to finance. Off-plan usually costs less upfront and comes with developer payment plans, but income starts only at handover and depends on the developer delivering on time. Compare both on total cost and the date you need the unit.