Buying property in Dubai: a clear guide

Who can buy, and where

Foreigners, including people who do not live in the UAE, may buy property in the areas of Dubai designated for them. Well-known examples are Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina and Palm Jumeirah. Before looking at listings, it helps to settle your brief: your budget, whether you are buying to invest or to use the home yourself, which areas appeal, and your timing. I help you shape that brief, then introduce you to Palmera's licensed UAE team, who handle the regulated sales process.

How a purchase becomes official

Outside the Dubai International Financial Centre, which keeps its own register, a sale is valid only when it is recorded by the Dubai Land Department. The Department is also the body that issues the title deed. This is why the sales process is handled by licensed professionals rather than by a referrer like me.

Off-plan, payment plans and buying from developers

Many buyers ask about off-plan, meaning a property bought before it is built. Developers selling off-plan must be registered with the Real Estate Regulatory Agency of the Dubai Land Department. Buyers' payments go into a project escrow account reserved for construction, which is one of the safeguards built into the system.

Costs to plan for

Buyers pay Dubai Land Department registration and title deed fees and a registration trustee's service fee. If a broker is involved, a commission may also apply. Once you own, you pay service charges for the shared areas of the building or community.

Currency

Prices and official fees are in UAE dirhams (AED), the national currency. The dirham is pegged to the US dollar, which many international buyers find a helpful point of reference when comparing costs.

Buying when you cannot be there

A buyer who cannot attend can complete the purchase through a representative holding a duly notarised power of attorney. Palmera's team can explain how this works in practice, so you can decide whether it suits you.

Updated October 2026 · Data: Palmera