Property Ownership in Dubai for Foreigners: Laws and Opportunities in 2025

Over the past years, Dubai’s real estate market has witnessed a great opening to foreign investors, as the government has sought to facilitate foreign ownership of real estate in a safe and orderly manner. Entering 2025, Dubai has become one of the easiest cities globally for non-nationals to own property, making it an attractive environment for international investment.

Can foreigners own property in Dubai?

Yes, foreigners can own property in Dubai in designated areas known as freehold areas. These zones allow non-UAE investors to purchase properties in full and retain full ownership without a time limit.

What are freehold areas?

• Palm Jumeirah
• Downtown Dubai
• Dubai Marina
• Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC)
• Mohammed Bin Rashid City
• Business Bay

These areas vary in terms of real estate type, prices, and return on investment, but all allow full ownership of foreigners.

Available forms of ownership:

• Freehold: It means owning the property and land permanently.
• Usufruct: Temporary ownership of a property for a long period (usually 99 years).
• Leasehold: Owning the property only, not the land, for a specific period such as 30 or 50 years.

Steps to buy a property for foreigners:

• Choose the right property in a freehold area.
• Conclusion of the purchase contract with the developer or current owner.
• Open an escrow account and transfer the first payment.
• Obtain approval from Dubai Land Department (DLD).
• Register the property in the name of the buyer and pay the registration fee (usually 4% of the property value).

Is it possible to obtain residency through the property?

Yes, there are real estate residency systems that allow investors to apply for residency in the UAE, including:

• A two-year residency for a property worth a minimum value of AED 750,000.
• A 10-year golden visa for a property worth more than AED 2M, under certain conditions.

Advantages of foreign ownership of real estate in Dubai:

• Freedom to sell, lease or give.
• Full legal protection of property.
• The possibility of obtaining a residence linked to the property.
• No taxes on real estate income or capital gains.
• A developed and safe investment environment.

Tips for foreign buyers:

• Work with a licensed real estate broker.
• Check the real estate developer’s background and project history.
• Make sure the area is within the freehold range.
• Read the contracts carefully and hire a lawyer if necessary.