Most Common Questions When Buying Property in Dubai

General Eligibility and Legal Questions

Can I Buy Property in Dubai if I Am Not a Resident?

Yes, non-residents can buy property in Dubai, provided they purchase within designated freehold areas. These areas are open to all nationalities, and you do not need UAE residency to complete a property transaction. The process is straightforward, and many international investors purchase off-plan or ready properties remotely with the help of a registered real estate broker and Power of Attorney if needed.

Does Buying a Property in Dubai Entitle Me to a Residence Visa?

Yes, this is one of the most important questions to ask when buying investment property in Dubai. Investors can qualify for a UAE residence visa depending on the property value and ownership structure.

• Investor Visa (2 years): Available for properties worth AED 750,000+ (AED 1M if jointly owned). A 50% down payment is required if financed.

• Green Visa (5 years): Requires investment of AED 2M+, with ownership held for at least two years. Off-plan purchases are eligible.

• Golden Visa (10 years): Granted for properties worth AED 2M+, including off-plan and mortgaged units. No minimum equity or down payment required.

These visa options allow investors to sponsor family members and enjoy long-term residency in the UAE.

Is My Investment Protected If I Buy An Off-Plan Property In Dubai?

Yes, off-plan property investments in Dubai are protected by strict regulations set by the Dubai Land Department (DLD) and the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA). Developers must register each project with RERA and open a dedicated escrow account. All payments from buyers are deposited into this escrow account and can only be used for the construction of that specific project.

This system ensures transparency and reduces risk, helping to protect investors in the event of project delays or cancellations. To further safeguard your investment, always verify that the developer is licensed and the project is registered before signing any agreements.

Do I Need A Local Bank Account To Buy Property In Dubai?

No, it is not mandatory to have a UAE bank account. You can make payments from international accounts, though setting up a local account is advisable for managing future expenses like service charges or rental income, especially if you plan to hold the property long term.

Can I Buy Property In Dubai Through A Company?

Yes, properties in Dubai can be purchased under the name of a UAE-registered company, and in some cases, international corporate entities. However, the rules vary depending on the developer, the location, and whether the company is registered in a free zone or on the mainland. Legal advice is recommended if you're considering this route.

Buying Process & Legal Considerations

While understanding what questions to ask when buying property in Dubai, it is equally important for you to understand the property buying process and all the steps it entails, including: 

1. Research: The more research you do, the better you know about what questions to ask when buying property in Dubai. Understand the areas you want a property in, their amenities, price, and more. 

2. Budget: Setting a budget will help you save a lot of time and effort while finding a property. Ensure that in your budget, you have set aside extra amounts for hidden costs. 

3. Property: Once you have found the right property, discuss the terms and agreements of the sale with the buyer. Once both parties have agreed upon them, sign an MoU. 

4. Documents: Having the right documents is an important part of this process. Ensure that you have these documents when going about the property transaction: 

   • Valid passport copies

   • Real Estate Sale Agreement

   • No Objection Certificate (NOC)

   • The title deed of the property

   • Memorandum of Understanding

5. Transfer: Once the forms are signed and both parties have convened at the Registrar’s Office at the DLD, the transfer of ownership will happen. Ensure that you have paid all dues and signed the right paperwork.

Is It Possible To Buy A Property In The UAE without Going Through A Property Broker? 

Yes, you can technically buy a property in the UAE without using a real estate broker. However, skipping professional representation can be risky, especially for international buyers or first-time investors.

A qualified broker—licensed by the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA)—offers more than just property search support. They guide you through negotiations, ensure legal compliance, handle due diligence, and help you navigate Dubai Land Department procedures. In a market where even minor errors can cause costly delays or disputes, having a trusted expert by your side is highly recommended.

While avoiding the agency commission might seem attractive, the peace of mind, legal protection, and time savings that come with a reputable brokerage often outweigh the cost, especially when dealing with investment property in Dubai.

What Legal Documents Should I Check Before Buying Property In Dubai?

When buying a property, ensure the title deed is valid and issued by the Dubai Land Department. For off-plan purchases, confirm the project is registered with RERA, the developer is licensed, and a valid escrow account is in place. Having a lawyer or licensed broker review the MoU (Memorandum of Understanding) and sales agreement is highly recommended.

Financing and Payment Options

This is one of the most important questions to ask when buying investment property or even a home in Dubai - how will you finance the purchase?

Dubai offers a variety of financing and payment solutions tailored to both residents and foreign investors. Here are the key options:

1. Mortgage Financing
One of the most common questions to ask when buying property is whether foreigners can obtain a mortgage in Dubai. The answer is yes, you can apply for a non-resident mortgage from selected UAE banks, although eligibility and terms may vary. A typical requirement is a minimum 20-25% down payment for expats, along with proof of income and creditworthiness.

2. Developer Payment Plans
For off-plan properties, developers offer payment plans. These are an interest free way to finance the purchase of an off-plan property. Typically, a payment plan is split into 3 parts. The downpayment, which is paid when booking the property, followed by installments made at certain intervals during the construction and finally, a final payment made when the property is completed and handed over to you.

3. Cash

Finally, for property buyers and investors with sufficient savings, you can buy real estate in Dubai using cash. Whilst this requires a large outlay, it can offer certain benefits, including greater negotiating power, a very fast transaction speed and the avoidance of interest payments that would be made on a mortgage.

Can I Use Cryptocurrency To Buy Property In The UAE?

This is becoming a more common question to ask when buying investment property, especially in a tech-forward country like the UAE. While this option is gaining momentum, buying property with cryptocurrency is not yet mainstream. Regulatory frameworks are still evolving, and most property transactions are conducted in AED (dirhams).

However, a few developers and startups are exploring blockchain and crypto-based solutions. If you're interested in this route, consult an experienced real estate broker and stay informed about the latest regulations to ensure your investment is secure.

Can I Finance a Property as a Foreigner or Expat?

Yes, and it’s one of the most important questions to ask when buying property in Dubai. As a foreigner, you have several financing options:

• Pay the full amount in cash, including fees and taxes

• Apply for a mortgage from a UAE-based bank that offers loans to non-residents

• Choose an off-plan property with a structured developer payment plan

It’s important to compare these options based on your financial profile and investment goals. Working with a qualified broker or mortgage advisor can help you find the best solution.

Questions to Ask When Viewing a Property in Dubai

Once you’ve shortlisted a property, the viewing stage is your chance to look beyond the brochure. Here are essential questions to ask when buying property during the viewing:

• What are the service charges?
  Ask about annual service fees, what they cover, and how they’re managed. This will help you understand the ongoing cost of ownership.

• Is the property currently tenanted?
  If you’re buying for investment, clarify when you can take possession and what the current rental income is (if any).

• What are the views, noise levels, and natural light like at different times of day?
  These quality-of-life factors can affect both your enjoyment and the property’s future rental appeal.

• Has the property had any recent maintenance or renovations?
  Check for structural issues, signs of damp, or outdated fixtures — especially in secondary market units.

• What’s included in the sale?
  Clarify if the property is sold furnished or unfurnished, and what fixtures or appliances are part of the deal.

Asking the right questions during viewings can help you avoid surprises and make a confident, informed decision.

Additional Buyer Questions 

These are some additional questions to ask when buying property in Dubai. Here are the most common ones, with their answers!

What Are The Costs Involved In Buying Property In The UAE?

This is one of the most common questions to ask when buying investment property in Dubai. Here are the costs involved in your property transaction: 

• Property price 

• Real estate agent fees 

• DLD fees 

• Title deed issuance fee 

• Mortgage fees (if applicable) 

• NOC fee

For a full breakdown, see our complete guide to the costs of buying property in Dubai.

Are There Any Restrictions On The Type Of Property Foreigners Can Buy?

Yes. One of the key questions to ask when buying property in Dubai is whether there are limitations for foreign investors. Foreigners can only purchase property in designated freehold areas, which are approved by the Dubai government. Within these zones, buyers can own residential, commercial, and even industrial properties with full ownership rights.

Outside of these areas, only leasehold ownership is allowed, granting rights to use the property for a set period, usually up to 99 years, without full ownership of the land. It's essential to verify the legal status of the property and area before proceeding with a purchase.

How Long Does The Property Purchase Process Take In Dubai? 

Depending on how the property sale and purchase are financed, the transaction process usually ranges from 2 to 8 weeks. The fastest transaction is when both the buyer and seller financed the property with cash, whereas when the buyer and/or seller has a mortgage, this will slow down the transaction. 

What Documents Do I Need To Buy A Property In The UAE? 

This is also an important question to ask when buying property. The documents required for your property purchase in Dubai can include: 

• Valid passport copies

• Real Estate Sale Agreement

• No Objection Certificate (NOC)

• The title deed of the property

What Is The Expected ROI Or Rental Yield For This Property?

If you're buying for investment, this is one of the most important questions to ask when buying investment property in Dubai. Rental yields in Dubai can vary greatly by community, unit type, and building quality. Ask for recent rental data or projected ROI to ensure the property aligns with your financial goals.

Can This Property Be Used For Short-Term Rentals Or Holiday Lets?

If you’re planning to list the property on Airbnb or other platforms, check whether the building or community allows short-term rentals and what licensing is required. Rules can vary by development.

Key Takeaways: Questions to Ask When Buying Property in Dubai

Whether you're buying a home or an investment property, asking the right questions early in the process can save you time, money, and stress. From legal eligibility and visa options to financing, payment plans, and due diligence during viewings, every stage requires informed decision-making.

Keep in mind:

• Non-residents can buy freehold property in Dubai without a UAE visa.

• Property ownership can qualify you for long-term UAE residence visas.

• Off-plan investments are protected through RERA and escrow regulations.

• Financing is available for both residents and non-residents, with flexible developer plans for off-plan units.

• Always ask about rental yields, service charges, handover dates, and building rules—especially when buying for investment.

By knowing which questions to ask when buying property in Dubai, you’ll be far better positioned to make a smart, secure, and profitable investment.