There are several compelling reasons to venture into Dubai’s booming real estate market. For instance, investing in real estate proves to be a strategic hedge against inflation due to its direct correlation with economic indicators. Additionally, acquiring an investor visa becomes possible with a minimum investment of AED 750 000 (USD 205 000) in a ready-to-move property. As a visa holder, you gain the advantage of bringing your family to the UAE. Notably, rental properties in Dubai boast an impressive ROI ranging from 8-10%. Dubai’s property market exhibits resilience, marking its 10th consecutive quarter of expansion, fueled by demand, economic growth, and government initiatives.
Nationals of other countries can indeed own real estate in Dubai, but solely in areas designated as ‘freehold.’ This privilege extends to both non-residents and expatriates who acquire property in these freehold zones. The ownership rights granted are either freehold, without restrictions, or leasehold for up to 99 years. In Dubai, DLD issues title deeds, with no age limitations on property ownership in the emirate. Popular freehold areas include Downtown Dubai, Business Bay, Dubai Creek Harbour, DAMAC Hills, Palm Jumeirah Island, and others.
Selecting the ideal area for buying an apartment in Dubai involves considering factors like infrastructure, public transport links, healthcare, academic facilities, and more. Notable family-friendly communities such as Dubai Hills Estate, Al Barari, and DAMAC Hills offer generously sized villas amidst verdant spaces and communal amenities like gyms, gardens, swimming pools, BBQ areas, and multi-sports courts. Investing in a villa in Dubai proves attractive, providing options for private residence, renting, or future resale.
Dubai’s property market offers diverse options for various budgets and tastes. Developers often provide attractive post-handover payment plans, especially – on early stages of project construction.
The UAE’s real estate market caters to different price categories, providing options for both affordable and luxury properties. The cost of real estate depends on such factors such as location, emirate, demand, and surrounding infrastructure.
The typical property transaction in UAE takes approximately a month, starting from the signing of the sale agreement between the buyer and seller.
Given the UAE’s tax-free status, property owners are exempt from property taxes. However, annual maintenance and service charges are applicable, with payment frequencies ranging from once to four times a year, depending on the property.
While Value-Added Tax (VAT) at 5% applies to sales of commercial property in Dubai, it does not extend to sales or leases of residential property and leases of commercial property.
Dubai’s investment property market offers higher rental yields compared to many mature real estate markets, ranging from 5% to 9%. Affordable luxury real estate, coupled with the absence of stamp duty and property taxes, makes Dubai an attractive location for ownership. Initiatives, such as the reduction in the minimum required amount for a residence visa in September 2021, further enhance its appeal.
The official currency of Dubai and the UAE is the UAE Dirham. Transactions are conducted in Dirhams, which is pegged against the US dollar with a fixed exchange rate of 1 USD = 3.67 AED, ensuring stability and reliability in currency exchange.
Investing in Dubai real estate brings various advantages, including high rental yields (5% to 9%) and comparatively lower property prices per square foot than other global cities. Minimum investments of AED 750 000 (USD 205 000) qualify for a 2-year investor visa, while AED 2 000 000 (USD 545 000) allows eligibility for UAE Golden Visa. Favorable tax conditions, including the absence of property taxes and stamp duties, enhance the investment landscape.
Commencing real estate investment in Dubai involves identifying the investment purpose, whether for personal residence, renting, or resale. Location and nearby amenities significantly influence property prices. Additionally, investors should be aware of the 4% property transfer fee, divided equally between the buyer and seller. Other expenses include insurance, an NOC fee, an annual maintenance fee, and a real estate agent’s commission (typically 2% of the property purchase price).
Off-plan property in Dubai refers to property under construction and is a favored option for end users and investors. It offers a lower purchase price than ready-to-move-in units, allowing for potential resale before completion and gaining higher capital appreciation. Developers often require a 5-10% down payment, providing full ownership, and offer flexible payment plans. Purchasing off-plan also ensures brand-new properties with the latest technology, design, and lifestyle features.
Buying off-plan property in Dubai is accessible to any buyer without the need for a visa or Emirates ID, requiring only a passport copy. It is advisable to engage a real estate agent for detailed project information. Reservation involves signing the Sale and Purchase Agreement (SPA) and paying a deposit fee. Payment schedules vary, with a 4% Fee and Oqood registration fee due within 30 days. Final payments are made upon handover.
Yes, it is possible to obtain a mortgage to finance the purchase of an off-plan property, subject to meeting the specific requirements of financial institutions.
Freehold property in Dubai grants ownership of both the property and the land it occupies, allowing owners to keep, lease, or sell as desired. This ownership model aims to encourage foreign investments.
Since 2006, the Dubai government has introduced incentives allowing complete foreign ownership. Foreigners can own properties in designated free zones, such as Al Furjan and Palm Jumeirah, enjoying full ownership rights.
Investing in Dubai’s real estate market often involves securing long-term income through becoming a landlord. Residential real estate can yield an impressive 5-12% ROI, with apartments typically offering higher returns than townhouses and villas. Landlords bear responsibilities such as maintenance, repairs, and restoration but can opt for property management services. Rental income is subject to a 5% VAT tax and annual maintenance fees payable to the DLD.
Selling property in Dubai is simplified with the assistance of a qualified real estate agent. The process involves signing a ‘FORM A’ to mandate brokering and marketing, leading to the property being advertised online and offline. Upon finding a buyer, a Memorandum of Understanding (FORM F) is signed, and an NOC letter from the developer is obtained. The final step includes ownership transfer, requiring the MOU, NOC, title deed copy, seller’s cheque, 4% DLD fee, and original passport copy.
The Dubai Land Department (DLD) serves as the regulatory body overseeing all property transactions in Dubai. Its functions include legalizing land transactions, promoting investment, and ensuring a transparent and secure real estate experience.