Question 1

Can foreigners buy resale property in Dubai?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Overseas buyers can purchase ready (secondary market) property freehold in any of Dubai's designated freehold zones — including Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Hills Estate, Business Bay, JVC and Emaar Beachfront. There are no nationality restrictions and ownership is registered in your name with the Dubai Land Department.

Question 2

What are the upfront costs of buying a ready property in Dubai?

Accepted Answer

Budget approximately 6–7% on top of the purchase price. The main one-off costs are the 4% Dubai Land Department transfer fee, ~2% agency fee, AED 4,000 trustee/registration fees, plus mortgage registration (0.25% of loan) if you are financing. There is no annual property tax in Dubai.

Question 3

Can I get a mortgage as a non-resident UK buyer?

Accepted Answer

Yes. UAE banks offer mortgages to non-resident overseas buyers, typically up to 50–60% LTV for international clients and up to 80% LTV for UAE residents. We can introduce you to specialist mortgage brokers who work with UK and international investors regularly.

Question 4

How long does the secondary market purchase take?

Accepted Answer

A cash purchase can complete in 30–45 days from agreement. A mortgage-financed purchase typically takes 60–90 days. The process includes the MOU (Form F), 10% deposit, NOC from the developer, valuation, mortgage approval (if applicable) and final transfer at the Dubai Land Department.

Question 5

Is buying a ready property a better investment than off-plan?

Accepted Answer

Ready property generates rental income from day one and lets you inspect the exact unit before buying. Off-plan typically requires less upfront capital and offers higher capital growth potential during the construction period. Many of our clients hold both — ready property for income and off-plan for capital growth.

Question 6

Does buying a Dubai property qualify me for a UAE residency visa?

Accepted Answer

Yes. A Dubai property worth AED 750,000 or more qualifies you for a 2-year investor visa. AED 2 million or more qualifies you for the 10-year UAE Golden Visa, which extends to your spouse and children and does not require you to live in the UAE.

Question 7

Can I buy remotely from the UK without flying out?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The full purchase can be completed remotely via Power of Attorney. We coordinate viewings (live video walkthroughs), document signing, DLD registration and key handover so you do not need to be in Dubai to complete the transaction.

Properties For Sale in Dubai

Where to Buy in Dubai

Dubai Marina

Downtown Dubai

Palm Jumeirah

Dubai Hills Estate

Emaar Beachfront

JLT

Buying from the UK

Dubai Mortgage Guide

Buying Property in Dubai — FAQs

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