How to Buy Property in Dubai from Singapore: A Complete Guide

Why Singaporeans Are Investing in Dubai Real Estate

Dubai’s real estate market offers unique appeal for Singaporean investors seeking growth and security. From zero property tax to high rental yields, there are several compelling reasons to buy property in Dubai.

Compared to Singapore’s high property prices, Dubai real estate prices remain accessible while delivering strong ROI.

Typical gross rental yields in Dubai (5–8%) often outperform rental yields in Singapore (2–3% for central locations), making it a strategic choice for income-focused investors.

Investors can enjoy rental yields of 5–8%, tax-free capital gains, and potential Golden Visa eligibility for purchases exceeding AED 2 million (approx SGD 700K).

Compared to the average cost of a condo in central Singapore, which can exceed SGD 2,000 per square foot, Dubai offers significantly more value for your money, with luxury units starting around AED 1,200 (approx. SGD 440) per square foot.

The Dubai real estate market also boasts a diversified economy, global connectivity, and premium infrastructure, making it a strong contender for international investors. For a deeper dive into the benefits, explore 14 reasons why you should invest in Dubai real estate.

Step-by-Step Guide to Buying Property in Dubai from Singapore

For Singapore-based buyers, in order to buy property in Dubai, here’s a simplified breakdown:

1. Define Your Goals
   Decide if you’re investing for rental income, capital growth, or a second home. This will shape your budget and property type.

2. Choose Your Preferred Area
   Each Dubai property offers something unique. Pick based on your goals: luxury, affordability, or strong rental demand.

3. Partner with a Trusted Brokerage
   Work with experienced agents like Engel & Völkers Dubai to access verified listings and professional guidance.

4. Browse Off-Plan or Ready Properties
   Off-plan units offer lower prices and flexible plans. Ready properties generate income immediately.

5. Sign the Sales Purchase Agreement (SPA)
   This agreement outlines the price, terms, and timeline. It can be signed in person or remotely.

6. Transfer Funds via Escrow
   Payments go into a secure, DLD-approved escrow account, ensuring safety and transparency.

7. Register with the Dubai Land Department
   Once payment is complete, the property is registered and the title deed issued—even if you’re buying remotely.

All steps can be completed remotely via Power of Attorney. With English widely spoken and used in contracts and business, Singaporean buyers will find navigating the Dubai property process straightforward.

Documents Required for Singapore Residents

To legally purchase property in Dubai from Singapore, you’ll need a set of standard documents that help verify your identity and enable property registration with the Dubai Land Department. Here’s what each one involves:

• Valid Passport Copy
  A clear, colored scan of your current passport is required. This serves as your primary identification document and must be valid at the time of property registration. If you’re co-purchasing, passport copies for all buyers must be submitted.

• Proof of Address
  This could be a recent utility bill, bank statement, or official government-issued correspondence showing your residential address in Singapore. The document should be dated within the last three months and must be in English or legally translated.

• Emirates ID (if residing in the UAE)
  If you’re already a UAE resident (for work or family reasons), your Emirates ID will be needed. This is a government-issued identification card used for most official transactions within the UAE. If you’re a non-resident buying remotely, this document is not required.

• Signed SPA (Sales and Purchase Agreement)
  This is the official contract between the buyer and seller/developer outlining the agreed price, terms of payment, and property details. It must be signed by all parties. Engel & Völkers Dubai can assist in reviewing and explaining the SPA before signing.

• Power of Attorney (for remote transactions)
  If you’re buying from Singapore without visiting Dubai, you’ll need to issue a Power of Attorney (POA) to a trusted representative in Dubai—often your real estate broker or a legal advisor—so they can sign documents and register the property on your behalf. The POA must be notarized in Singapore and attested by the UAE Embassy, then legalized in Dubai via the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Financing Options for Singaporeans

If you’re not purchasing in cash, several financing options are available to non-residents.

UAE-Based Mortgage Lenders

Some banks in the UAE offer mortgages to foreign investors, including Singaporeans, with up to 50–70% loan-to-value (LTV) ratios. The loan tenure usually ranges between 15 to 25 years, depending on the bank and the applicant’s financial profile. To qualify, you’ll need:

• Proof of income or employment

• Good credit history

• A down payment (typically 30–50%)

• Valid passport and visa copy

Note: Interest rates can be fixed or variable, and approvals may take 2–4 weeks. Most banks will require you to open a local account.

Developer Payment Plans

For off-plan properties, developers offer payment plans, often with flexible terms such as 60/40 or 50/50, with interest-free payments spread over up to 5 years. These are especially attractive for investors wanting to minimise upfront costs while the project is under construction.

These plans usually do not require bank approval, making them simpler and faster than mortgages.

Popular Areas in Dubai for Singaporean Investors

Dubai is home to a wide range of real estate options, from affordable apartments to luxurious beachfront villas. Top locations for Dubai properties for Singapore buyers include:

• Downtown Dubai – Luxury living next to Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall, with consistent rental demand.

• Dubai Marina – Ideal for short-term rentals and expats who love a waterfront lifestyle.

• Business Bay – High-rise apartments close to Downtown and DIFC (Dubai International Financial Centre).

• Palm Jumeirah – High-end villas, apartments and branded residences with strong prestige value.

• Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC) – Affordable pricing with high rental yields.

Each area caters to different goals. To find one that aligns with yours, explore our guide to Dubai residential areas.

Legal and Regulatory Aspects to Know

Foreign nationals, including Singaporeans, are allowed to buy property in Dubai in designated freehold zones, granting full ownership of the unit and the land. The market is overseen by the Dubai Land Department (DLD) and the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA), ensuring transparency and buyer protection.

Key legal safeguards include:

• Escrow accounts to protect buyer payments until project completion

• Mandatory registration of off-plan projects and developers with RERA

• Oqood certificates confirming interim ownership for off-plan buyers

• Digital title deed issuance via the DLD upon final payment

No residency visa is required to purchase property, but investments above AED 2 million may qualify buyers for a 10-year Golden Visa, which includes long-term stay rights and family sponsorship.

All contracts, including the Sales and Purchase Agreement (SPA), follow standardised legal formats. Buyers can complete transactions remotely using a notarized Power of Attorney—a common path for Singapore-based investors.

Engel & Völkers Dubai provides legal coordination to ensure your transaction complies with all DLD and RERA requirements, from offer to handover.

Schools and Healthcare In Dubai

For Singaporean families relocating to Dubai, access to quality education and healthcare is a key consideration, and the city delivers on both.

International Schools in Dubai

For families relocating, Dubai also hosts a range of international schools following the IB, British, and American curricula, similar to premium education offerings in Singapore.
Top international schools include:

• GEMS World Academy – IB curriculum, popular with expat families.

• Dubai College – British curriculum, one of the most prestigious secondary schools.

• Swiss International Scientific School – Offers bilingual French-English and German-English IB programs.

• Singapore International School Dubai – A newer institution designed specifically for Singaporean expats, reflecting Singapore’s MOE values and bilingual approach.

Tuition fees in Dubai international schools range from AED 30,000 to AED 100,000 per year, depending on the level and reputation, comparable to or slightly lower than private school fees in Singapore.

Healthcare for Residents and Expats

Dubai's healthcare system is highly developed, with a wide network of public and private hospitals and clinics. Many medical professionals are internationally trained, and English is the primary language used in most healthcare settings.

Some of the top hospitals in Dubai include:

• American Hospital Dubai – JCI-accredited and known for high-quality care.

• Mediclinic City Hospital – Advanced diagnostics and specialty services.

• King's College Hospital Dubai – Affiliated with the UK-based King's College, offering British-standard care.

For Singaporeans, this means accessing medical care of an international standard, often with shorter waiting times and lower out-of-pocket costs compared to Singapore's private healthcare sector.

Health insurance is mandatory in Dubai for all residents, and most expat employers provide comprehensive plans that cover GP visits, specialists, maternity, and emergency care. If you're investing in property and applying for a Golden Visa, private medical insurance will be a prerequisite.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking to diversify your portfolio or secure a luxury second home, Dubai real estate offers unmatched potential for Singapore-based investors. With strong returns, tax advantages, and a transparent buying process, now is a great time to invest.

Engel & Völkers Dubai offers full support, from virtual tours and legal assistance to property management and resale. Explore current listings, learn about Dubai real estate prices via the Dubai property index, and take the next step toward your investment goals.

Reach out to Engel & Völkers Dubai for tailored advice on how Dubai real estate can complement your portfolio alongside Singapore-based holdings.