Legal Requirements for Foreigners Buying Property in Dubai

Foreigners, whether expatriate residents or occasional visitors, can buy properties in Dubai. The Emirate's government has ruled to permit foreign ownership within designated freehold areas and allows buyers the right to own, lease, or use the property without restrictions on time. These areas include upscale neighborhoods such as Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah, Jumeirah Lakes Towers, among others.

Types of ownership available to foreigners are:

• Freehold Ownership: With this ownership, the individual obtains full ownership rights over property and land.
• Leasehold Ownership: One gets property ownership for a fixed term, normally up to 99 years. In some residential and commercial zones, there is a higher supply of leasehold properties.

Dubai's real estate market is controlled by the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) under the Dubai Land Department (DLD). These institutions serve to ensure transparency, safety for buyers, and governance of real estate Dubai transactions. Key regulations include:

1. Title Deeds: Title deeds are documents issued by the DLD, representing the ownership of property. This document is crucial for any property transaction, such as selling or transferring ownership. It is required for anyone applying for the Golden Visa UAE Eligibility, as properties must be registered in the investor's name for the visa application.
2. No Objection Certificates (NOCs): The developer needs to provide an NOC to validate that there are no dues pending against the property. This certificate is necessary to ensure the property is clear for sale and legal transfer. For those applying for the Golden Visa Dubai, an NOC ensures that the property is eligible for ownership transfer.
3. Escrow Accounts: Payments for off-plan property in Dubai are made to an escrow account that keeps buyers' money safe until the project is completed. This ensures that developers cannot misuse funds. For investors wanting to buy property in Dubai and get residency, escrow accounts offer additional security, ensuring funds are only released when the property is delivered.

Foreign buyers can get a mortgage in the UAE from local banks; however, the terms and conditions vary. A non-resident may need to go through more scrutiny than an expatriate resident. Income, job status, and the value of the property remain the determining factors for providing a mortgage. Typically, non-resident buyers can borrow up to 50% of the value of the property, while residents can get loans for up to 80%. For those purchasing off-plan property in Dubai, developers will often offer very attractive payment plans that reduce the immediate financial burden. Need help with financing as a foreign buyer? Contact LYM Real Estate and let our experts help you out with your financing needs in the Dubai real estate market!

1. Research the Market: Learn about the Dubai real estate market and study areas that suit your budget and preference. Analyze trends in Dubai property prices, apartments for sale in Dubai, villas for sale in Dubai, and off-plan projects in Dubai.
2. Choosing a Property: Be it a luxury villa, high-rise apartment, or an affordable property in Dubai, identify the type that will suit your investment goals.
3. Hire Professionals: Work with licensed real estate agents, like those at LYM Dubai, and a legal advisor to understand the process.
4. Signing of MoU: A Memorandum of Understanding is drawn up, stating the terms of sale: the price, payment schedule, and date of handover.
5. Secure Financing: If needed, pre-approval for a mortgage should be obtained or the payment plan should be finalised with the developer.
6. Obtain the NOC: An NOC should be issued by the developer, provided there are no dues or disputes.
7. Ownership Transfer: Visit the DLD office to complete the ownership transfer. Pay the required fees, which usually consist of a 4% fee on the transfer and a registration fee.
8. Title Deed: You get the title deed once the ownership transfer has been completed.

Investing in properties for sale in Dubai comes with numerous benefits:

• Tax-Free Environment: No income tax or capital gains tax is charged on the profits derived.
• High Rental Yield: Yields range from 5% to even 8%, far exceeding other major cities.
• Residency Visa: Those purchasing can potentially qualify for residency visas. UAE Golden Visa is granted for investments crossing AED 2 million.
• Diverse Options: From luxury villas to affordable apartments for sale in Dubai, the emirate offers something for everyone.

• Downtown Dubai: Best for those looking for luxurious apartments for sale in Dubai with iconic views.
• Palm Jumeirah: Known for luxurious villas for sale in Dubai with direct beach access.
• Dubai Marina: The expatriate hub has a number of modern options to buy and invest in apartments.
• Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC): A family-friendly area with relatively affordable houses for sale in Dubai.