Buying Property in Dubai

Buying Property in Dubai

Contemporary luxury Dubai residential towers at golden hour

Buying property in Dubai is more open, and more protected, than most international investors expect. Foreigners can own freehold in the districts they actually want, there is no property tax, no income tax, and no capital gains tax, and the buying process is regulated end to end by the Dubai Land Department and RERA. This guide walks U.S. and international buyers through who can buy, how the off-plan process works, the contracts and buyer protections that safeguard your money, and how financing works for foreign purchasers. Whether you are buying your first Dubai property from abroad or adding to a global portfolio, start here to understand the ground rules before you commit, then talk to us about your specific goals.

The buying process, contracts, and buyer protections.

Frequently asked questions

What Is Oqood?

Oqood is the official pre-title registration issued through the Dubai Land Department for an off-plan property purchase.

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What Is an EOI?

EOI stands for Expression of Interest.

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What Is an Escrow Account and How Does It Protect Buyers?

For Dubai off-plan property, an escrow account is a regulated project account where purchaser payments are deposited for that specific development.

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What Is an SPA?

SPA stands for Sale and Purchase Agreement, the contract between the buyer and the developer that outlines the terms of the transaction.

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What Protections Do Buyers Have If a Project Is Delayed?

The answer often depends on the specific terms of your Sale and Purchase Agreement (SPA), which outlines both parties' rights and obligations around timelines and delays.

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