From choosing a freehold area to receiving your title deed — the process explained clearly for buyers based outside the UAE.
Foreign nationals can buy property in Dubai's designated freehold areas with full ownership rights, and much of the process can be completed remotely. Here is how a typical purchase works.
1. Define your brief
Decide on budget, property type, preferred areas and your goal — rental yield, capital growth, a holiday home or relocation. A clear brief lets us shortlist the right projects quickly.
2. Shortlist areas and projects
We compare communities on price, rental demand, developer track record and future infrastructure, then arrange video walk-throughs or in-person viewings.
3. Reserve the unit
You sign a reservation form and pay the booking deposit. For off-plan purchases this is paid to the developer; for ready property a Memorandum of Understanding (Form F) is signed between buyer and seller.
4. Sign the sale agreement
For off-plan, the developer issues the Sale and Purchase Agreement (SPA). Review the payment schedule, completion date and handover terms carefully before signing.
5. Register with the Dubai Land Department
Off-plan sales are registered on the DLD's Oqood system; ready property transfers are completed at a DLD trustee office. The DLD registration fee is 4% of the purchase price.
6. Handover and title deed
At completion you inspect the unit (a snagging inspection), pay the remaining balance and receive the keys. The title deed is then issued in your name.
Residency through property
Property ownership can make you eligible for UAE residency. Properties worth AED 2 million or more can qualify for the 10-year Golden Visa, subject to the current requirements, which we recommend confirming at the time of purchase.
Most of this process can be handled remotely, with documents signed digitally or through a power of attorney.
