Buying property in Dubai process: step-by-step guide
Let’s break down the buying journey into clear, simple steps so you know exactly what to expect. This reflects how property transactions are completed across Dubai and gives you a straightforward overview of the key stages involved.
Take time to understand location options, preferred communities and the types of homes available. Dubai offers villas, apartments, townhouses and Off Plan projects across a wide range of neighbourhoods. Area factors such as schools, commute times, amenities, lifestyle features and rental yield potential can help narrow your search.
Key actions
- Review neighbourhoods using our Area Guides
- Compare property types that match your needs
- Learn about current trends through our Market Reports and Investment Playbook
Expats can purchase homes in designated freehold zones, while UAE nationals have a wider choice of locations and additional government support. Both groups follow a similar legal process, but eligibility, documentation and some cost elements differ.
Key actions
- Check freehold areas if you are an international buyer
- Review visa and identification requirements
- Explore long term residency options through property purchase
Decide whether you are buying with cash or finance. Finance is available to residents and non-residents. If you plan to use a mortgage, obtain pre-approval from your chosen bank through our mortgage partners.
Our mortgage partners can assist with bank comparisons and approvals.
Key actions
- Use the Mortgage Calculator on this page
- Secure a mortgage pre approval letter
- Understand mortgage registration fees and bank requirements
Your haus & haus consultant will present a shortlist of properties based on your preferences and timeline. Some homes may be vacant and ready to move into or occupied by tenants. Understanding move in dates and possession conditions helps you create a suitable offer.
Key actions
- Schedule viewings with your consultant
- Review community and building information
- Shortlist the properties that best match your needs
All transactions in Dubai use the Unified Form F which confirms the agreed price terms and property details. Before signing Form F buyers complete Contract B which outlines search criteria and basic personal information. At this stage you will provide a ten percent security deposit which is held safely until transfer.
Key actions
- Sign Contract B
- Provide your ten percent deposit via cheque or bank transfer
- Sign and review Form F with your consultant
A conveyancing specialist manages all required checks with the developer, Dubai Land Department and your bank if you are using finance. They ensure the property is clear of liabilities and ready for transfer.
Key actions
- Submit your identification and other documents required by the conveyancing team/agent
- Complete bank valuation if needed
- Coordinate all steps with the conveyancing team
The final step takes place at the Trustee Office where the property is officially transferred into your name. Once payment is completed and documents are approved you will receive your new title deed.
Common timelines:
- Finance buyer and finance seller around eight weeks
- Finance buyer and cash seller around six weeks
- Cash buyer and cash seller around four weeks
Buying a house in Dubai for expats vs UAE nationals
Expats can buy property in freehold areas across Dubai. You will need a passport copy, a ten percent security deposit and proof of funds or mortgage approval. Many expat buyers focus on communities with strong lifestyle benefits and long term value.
Nationals have a broader choice of communities and may qualify for government programs that support home ownership. The buying process often moves faster due to simplified requirements.
What type of property are you looking for?
Choose your preferred property type to go directly to suitable listings.
Villas offer privacy space and a family friendly lifestyle in some of Dubai’s most sought after communities. They are ideal for buyers who want generous layouts outdoor areas and long term comfort.
Apartments provide convenient living in well connected neighbourhoods with access to amenities shops and transport. They are popular with first time buyers investors and anyone looking for a modern low maintenance home.
Townhouses offer a balance of space and value with practical layouts and access to shared community facilities. They appeal to growing families and buyers who want more privacy without stepping into full villa living.
Off Plan homes allow you to purchase modern new designs with attractive payment plans and future focused community planning. Many buyers choose Off Plan property for long term value and flexible investment options.
Costs and fees when buying property in Dubai
Fee type Description Typical amount Dubai Land Department fee Mandatory government fee on all property purchases 4% of the purchase price Trustee Office fee Paid at the Trustee Office during the transfer appointment AED 4,200 + AED 580 Brokerage fee Paid to the real estate agency 2% of purchase price + 5% VAT Mortgage registration fee Required if bank finance is used 0.25% of mortgage amount + AED 290 Conveyancing service Legal checks and transfer preparation AED 6,000–9,000 + VAT Community service charges Annual building or community maintenance Varies by community
First time home buyer guide & checklist
Where next?
Ready vs Off Plan vs under construction
Ready property
You can move into a ready property soon after transfer which is ideal if you have a set timeline or want to stop paying rent.
Most ready homes are in mature neighbourhoods where roads, schools, shops and facilities are already in place, so you know exactly what to expect.
Because the building is complete you have a clear view of service charges and running costs which makes long term budgeting easier.
Ready homes often come with a higher purchase price compared with similar Off Plan options as you are paying for certainty and immediate use.
Most of the purchase price is due at transfer which means you need funds available rather than spreading payments across construction stages.
Off Plan property
Off Plan property usually offers staged payments over the build period so you can spread your costs and plan ahead more easily.
You are buying into new buildings and communities with current layouts finishes and amenities which can appeal to both residents and future tenants.
Many buyers choose Off Plan with a view to long term capital appreciation especially in well planned communities with strong future demand.
You will need to wait until construction completes before you can move in or start renting, so Off Plan suits buyers with a flexible timeline.
Build progress finishes and handover dates rely on the developer, so it is important to choose established names and monitor updates during construction.
Under construction
Buying in an under construction project can give you access to developing neighbourhoods before they are fully established which may support future value.
Many under construction projects follow a schedule where payments are tied to build milestones which can help align your cash flow with progress on site.
Prices at earlier stages are sometimes more competitive than once a community is complete and fully in demand.
Parks, shops, schools and other facilities may not be available from day one, so you need to be comfortable with a period of ongoing development.
Construction schedules can move so it is important to stay close to updates and plan your move or rental strategy around realistic handover dates.
Meet our property experts
FAQs about buying property in Dubai
Yes, foreign buyers can purchase property in Dubai. You do not need residency to buy and you can own homes in designated freehold areas across the city. Popular choices include Dubai Marina, Downtown Dubai, Jumeirah Village Circle and the Palm. The process for foreign buyers is clear and well-regulated which makes purchasing in Dubai straightforward.
For most buyers the minimum down payment is twenty percent of the property price if you are using a mortgage. Some banks may require more depending on your income profile and the property type. Cash buyers do not need a mortgage deposit but still pay a ten percent security deposit when signing the Memorandum of Understanding called the Form F.
The process usually takes four to eight weeks depending on whether the buyer or seller is using finance. Cash transactions are typically quicker. Most of the timeline is spent on bank valuations developer checks and final approvals. Once these steps are completed the ownership transfer takes place at the Trustee Office and the new title deed is issued.
- Confirm your full budget including fees
- Obtain mortgage pre-approval if you plan to finance
- Take time to explore communities and property types
- Work with a trusted consultant who understands your goals
- Review legal requirements and prepare your documents early
- Compare ready property and Off Plan options to find the right fit
These steps help you enter the market with clarity and confidence.
Yes, you can. Dubai allows non-residents to buy property with only a valid passport. Residency is not required to complete a purchase. Many international buyers complete transactions from overseas using a power of attorney or by working closely with their consultant and conveyancing specialist.
The best area depends on your lifestyle and goals. Popular choices include Downtown Dubai, Tilal Al Ghaf, Jumeirah Golf Estates, Arabian Ranches, Dubai Hills Estate and Palm Jumeirah. To explore detailed guidance on each community, visit the Area Guides.
Dubai has no annual property tax but there are standard fees when buying a home. These include:
- Dubai Land Department fee four percent of the purchase price
- Trustee Office fee
- Brokerage fee
- Mortgage registration fee if you are using finance
- Conveyancing service charges
- Community service charges once you own the property
These costs should be factored into your total budget.
The main considerations for Off Plan property include build timelines and project progress. Delivery dates may shift and you rely on the developer to complete construction as planned. This is why it is important to choose recognised developers, review payment plans and monitor updates throughout the build period.
Many buyers choose apartments in Dubai for long term rental income and capital growth. Apartments in central and waterfront communities often appeal to both residents and visitors which supports strong occupancy and demand. For a deeper look at market trends returns and investment strategies, explore the Dubai Real Estate Investment Playbook.
Guides & insights
Buying a property in Dubai becomes much easier when you have access to clear reliable information. Our latest guides and market insights support every stage of your buying journey from understanding legal steps to comparing ready and Off Plan options. Explore the resources below to deepen your knowledge and move forward with confidence.
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