Frequently Asked Questions
Question about Buying Properties in UAE
Both have advantages and disadvantages—off-plan properties offer lower prices, flexible payment plans, and higher potential for capital appreciation but come with risks like construction delays and no immediate rental income. Ready properties let you move in or rent out right away, offer stable rental yields, and less risk, but usually cost more upfront. The best choice depends on your investment goals, timeline, and risk tolerance
Yes, foreign nationals can own freehold property in Dubai. Dubai’s laws allow non-UAE nationals to buy, sell, and fully own property—including the land it sits on—in designated freehold areas, with the Dubai Land Department issuing the title deed to the foreign owner
Choose a broker from a reputable, licensed company—top names include Betterhomes, FAM Properties, Driven Properties, Metropolitan Premium Properties, Realty Homist and Allsopp & Allsopp.
Ensure the broker is RERA-certified and has a strong track record.
Look for positive client reviews and industry awards.
Ask about their experience in your target area or property type
Not Always large sized brokers are best choice, since the brokers in such companies might be struggling to survive and mislead the investor for their own interest.
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To get a mortgage in Dubai, you need to:
Meet eligibility requirements (minimum monthly income, age, stable employment, and, for non-residents, a valid passport and visa).
Prepare documents: passport, visa, bank statements, salary certificate, and credit report.
Pay upfront fees (around 6–7% of the property price) including Dubai Land Department and brokerage fees, which can no longer be financed as part of the mortgage.
For residents, down payments are usually 20–25%; for non-residents, up to 35–50%. In certain cases residents can benefit from 100% loan against ready property.
Choose between fixed, variable, or Islamic mortgages, and apply through a bank or mortgage broker.
The maximum loan term is 25 years, and the loan amount depends on your income and property value. We would suggest to consult with a mortgage broker before stepping into direct negotiation with the banks.
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The loan (mortgage) process in Dubai typically takes between 2 to 6 weeks from application to final approval, depending on how quickly you provide all required documents and the lender’s efficiency. Pre-approval alone usually takes 3 to 5 business days
Yes, minors can own property in Dubai, but they cannot buy or manage it independently. A legal guardian must handle the purchase and management on the minor’s behalf, and in some cases, court approval is required. Full legal capacity to independently buy or sell property is granted at age 21.
A property transaction in Dubai typically takes 30–60 days, depending on the type of property and whether you’re financing the purchase with a mortgage.
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Hiring a lawyer is optional but recommended, as they can review contracts, ensure compliance, and protect your interests during the transaction.
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Dubai does not impose property taxes, but buyers must pay a one-time 4% transfer fee to the Dubai Land Department (DLD).
Dubai offers a wide variety of properties, including apartments, villas, townhouses, commercial spaces, and off-plan properties from leading developers.
Yes, investors who purchase property worth AED 750,000 or more are eligible for a residency visa, subject to specific requirements. Higher investments can qualify for longer-term visas.
Off-plan properties are units that are sold before construction is completed. They can offer attractive payment plans and high ROI potential, making them a popular choice for investors.
Some of the top investment areas in Dubai include Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, Business Bay, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Hills Estate, and Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC).
You can rent out your property by working with a professional property management company like Realty Homist. We handle tenant sourcing, lease agreements, and ongoing management to ensure a seamless experience.
Yes, some developers and real estate brokers in Dubai, including Realty Homist, accept cryptocurrency payments for property purchases.
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Service charges are fees paid by property owners for the maintenance of common areas and amenities in buildings or communities. These charges vary by property type and location.
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Yes, Dubai’s real estate market offers high rental yields, a tax-free environment, and strong capital appreciation, making it an excellent choice for long-term investors.
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Question about selling Property in UAE
You have purchased a property in Dubai and now want to sell it. To do this, appoint a RERA-registered agent and sign a non-binding marketing and sales agreement (Form A) allowing them to list your property. If the agent successfully finds a buyer, they will sign another non-binding agreement with the buyer (Form B). Finally, a Memorandum of Understanding (Form F) is signed between the seller and buyer through the agent, which is binding on both parties to finalize the deal. The seller then obtains a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the developer and completes the ownership transfer at the Dubai Land Department or its trustee offices.
Yes, property in Dubai can depreciate due to physical wear and market fluctuations, especially in oversupplied areas or during market downturns. However, Dubai’s market is generally resilient and often recovers over time. Depending on which project you invest your property might be appreciate very high to depreciate significantly. That would be among main reasons you require a reliable and accountable advisor especially in Dubai.
Sellers typically pay 2–4% of the sale price in total costs. Main expenses include the agency commission (about 2% + 5% VAT), NOC fee (AED 500–5,000), a sales progression fee (around AED 7,500), and a transfer of ownership fee (AED 2,100–4,200). The Dubai Land Department transfer fee (4%) is usually paid by the buyer, but clarify this in your contract
Choose a broker from a reputable, licensed company—top names include Betterhomes, FAM Properties, Driven Properties, Metropolitan Premium Properties, Realty Homist and Allsopp & Allsopp.
Ensure the broker is RERA-certified and has a strong track record.
Look for positive client reviews and industry awards.
Ask about their experience in your target area or property type
Not Always large sized brokers are best choice, since the brokers in such companies might be struggling to survive and mislead the investor for their own interest.
To get a mortgage in Dubai, you need to:
Meet eligibility requirements (minimum monthly income, age, stable employment, and, for non-residents, a valid passport and visa).
Prepare documents: passport, visa, bank statements, salary certificate, and credit report.
Pay upfront fees (around 6–7% of the property price) including Dubai Land Department and brokerage fees, which can no longer be financed as part of the mortgage.
For residents, down payments are usually 20–25%; for non-residents, up to 35–50%. In certain cases residents can benefit from 100% loan against ready property.
Choose between fixed, variable, or Islamic mortgages, and apply through a bank or mortgage broker.
The maximum loan term is 25 years, and the loan amount depends on your income and property value. We would suggest to consult with a mortgage broker before stepping into direct negotiation with the banks.
How can Realty Homist help me in the Dubai property market?
Realty Homist offers end-to-end services, including market insights, property selection, transaction management, residency visa assistance, property management, and more. We simplify the process and ensure your investment journey is smooth and successful.
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