Frequently Asked Questions
Can foreigners buy property in UAE?
Yes. Foreign investors are allowed to purchase property in ‘designated freehold areas’ of Dubai. Freehold ownership grants full rights to own, sell, lease, or pass on the property to heirs. In freehold areas, foreigners enjoy 100% ownership. In leasehold areas, properties can be leased for up to 99 years.
Are there taxes on buying or owning property in Dubai?
Dubai offers tax-free income, no annual property tax, capital gains tax, or inheritance tax. Buyers only pay a one-time 4% Dubai Land Department (DLD) transfer fee and registration costs at purchase. Also, luxury projects in Dubai/UAE are at lower entry costs compared to London, New York, or Singapore.
Does Investing in a UAE property come with residency benefits?
Yes. Investing a minimum of AED 2,000,000 or USD ~545,000 secures a 10-year Golden Visa for you and your family. Our advisors can assist with visa setup.
Why are wealthy families investing in off-plan properties?
Because it combines capital growth, tax-free wealth preservation, and world-class lifestyle. Off-plan assets allow you to lock in today’s price, benefit from flexible payment plans and enjoy appreciation by completion. Speak to our private client team about upcoming launches.
How does buying off-plan property work?
Off-plan means purchasing before completion, preferably when a developer launches a project. Buyers pay a down payment (10–20%) and installments linked to construction stages, which makes it easier to break down the payment
Are off-plan investments secure?
Yes. Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA) regulations protect investors by requiring escrow accounts and milestone-based payments. Payments are secured in escrow accounts, and developers can only withdraw funds once construction milestones are achieved. HNWI families typically buy from Tier-1 developers like Emaar, Nakheel, and Meraas.
What is the average starting price for luxury off-plan investments?
Luxury off-plan residences start from USD 1 million, while mansions and penthouses range USD 5–20+ million. Flexible 60/40, 70/30 or 80/20 payment plans available. For example, in a 70/30 payment plan – 70% of the payment is divided in installments during the construction stage which could be between 2-4 years depending on the project/developer and remaining 30 % on handover of the property. Many families prefer cash, but banks in Dubai also provide financing up to 50% Loan to Value (LTV) for non-residents, subject to eligibility and credit check.
What returns can investors expect from off-plan properties?
Prime off-plan projects have historically delivered 20–40% capital appreciation by handover. Rental yields in luxury areas are 5–7% annually.
What are the advantages of branded residences in Dubai?
Branded residences with global names like Armani, Bulgari, Ritz-Carlton, The Royal Atlantis, Baccarat Hotel & Residences, Six Senses Residences, Dorchester Collection, Bugatti, Mercedes-Benz, JW Marriott, offer prestige, higher resale value, and lifestyle benefits. Some local brands like the Address also provide exclusive properties appealing to high net-worth families. Request our exclusive portfolio of branded residences.
Where are the most sought-after luxury areas?
Palm Jebel Ali & Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Hills Estate, and District 1, Sobha Hartland, Nad Al Sheba Gardens, Jumeirah Golf Estates, Tilal Al Ghaf, Al Barari, Downtown Dubai, Blue Waters Island, Business Bay & DIFC.
How do I start - first steps to invest in Dubai property?
1) Define goals (yield, capital growth, visa), 2) set budget, 3) research areas, 4) shortlist developers/agents, 5) do legal and financial due diligence, 6) sign SPA and register with DLD. Or contact us and we will help with the entire process for an effortless journey.
How do I check a developer's reputation?
Research delivery history, completed projects, customer reviews, developer financials and any DLD or regulator notices. Use established portals and ask for references. Homesae is partnered with the reputed top-tier developers with strong track record.
How long does the initial buying process take?
Roughly between 2 weeks-2 moths from the reservation to signing the SPA from both parties (buyer and developer). Times vary by developer and transaction complexity.
What are the documents needed to buy an off-plan property?
Typical documents: passport copy, proof of address, proof of funds/bank statement from home country, signed SPA (Sales Purchase Agreement.nRequirements vary by developer.
How much deposit is required to reserve a property?
Reservation/deposit amounts vary based on property value, project and developer payment policies. Commonly it’s 10% of property value for initial booking and followed by staged payments paid in instalments as per the developer schedule.
Can I use cryptocurrency to buy property?
Some developers accept crypto payments—this is not widespread and involves regulatory, tax and volatility risks. Verify developer policy and legal implications in your jurisdiction.
What is a Sales Purchase Agreement (SPA)?
SPA is the legally binding contract between buyer and seller outlining payment terms, handover date, penalties and obligations. Review it with a lawyer before signing.
How much is agency commission?
For off-plan properties, buyer don’t pay any commission to the agent. It is being paid by the developer to the brokerage agency.
Can I buy a property remotely?
Yes – remote purchases are possible via authorised power of attorney, and DLD e‑services, but legal and due diligence steps are essential.
Can I sell my off‑plan property before completion?
Yes – resale of off‑plan units is common but may require developer consent and NOC which is issued after completion of a partial payment, usually between 30-50% of the property value paid.