The Buyer’s Guide to Dubai Property in 2026

Dubai lets foreign buyers own freehold property in designated areas, with full ownership rights. The market is more mature than a few years ago, with a large share of new homes sold off-plan and a lot of new supply arriving, so preparation matters more than speed.

01. Set your budget the right way

The price is only part of the cost. As a guide, expect:

• Dubai Land Department transfer fee: 4% of the price, usually paid by the buyer.
• Registration and admin fees: a fixed registration fee plus smaller charges such as the title deed.
• Agency commission: commonly 2% plus VAT.
• Mortgage costs: a registration fee on the loan, bank arrangement fees and a valuation.

Total extra costs often fall between 6% and 10% of the price. Lenders generally do not finance the transfer fee or the commission, so plan to pay those in cash.

02. Cash or mortgage

Banks decide how much they will lend. Residents buying a first home under AED 5 million can often borrow a large share of the price, while higher-value homes, second homes, off-plan purchases and non-resident buyers are usually offered less. Get pre-approval before you start viewing.

03. Ready or off-plan

• Ready homes: you can see exactly what you are buying and can usually move in or rent out soon after transfer.
• Off-plan: you buy from the developer on a payment plan, with your payments held in a regulated escrow account and released as construction milestones are met. Check the developer’s record, the handover date and the expected service charges.

See what is available: properties for sale and off-plan projects.

04. The Golden Visa

Property worth AED 2 million or more (the Dubai Land Department refers to the value at the time of purchase) may qualify you for a 10-year UAE Golden Visa. A mortgaged property can qualify with a no-objection letter from a UAE bank. Rules change, so confirm before you buy with this goal.

05. The buying process

• Set your budget and get mortgage pre-approval if needed.
• Shortlist properties and view them in person or by video.
• Agree the price and sign the sale agreement, then pay the deposit.
• Complete the transfer at a Dubai Land Department trustee office and receive your title deed.

06. What to check before you commit

• The seller’s title deed, any mortgage on the property, and the service charges.
• The Trakheesi permit number on the advertisement.
• For off-plan: the project registration and escrow details.

Fees and rules change, so confirm current figures with the Dubai Land Department or a trustee office before you budget.

Official sources: Dubai Land Department: sale registration · UAE Central Bank: mortgage regulations · Dubai Land Department: Golden Visa (investor)

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