Step-by-Step Guide: Buying Property in Dubai (Updated for 2025)

Want to buy a property in Dubai this year? Whether you’re an expat, investor, or planning relocation—here’s the simple, legal path to owning real estate in one of the world’s fastest-growing property markets.

1. Know The Legal Framework & Who Can Buy

Dubai’s property market is regulated by the Dubai Land Department (DLD) and its real estate arm RERA, ensuring transparency and security.

Foreigners can purchase in freehold zones-complete ownership of the property and the land, indefinitely—designated by law (Law No. 7 of 2006). Leasehold properties are also available for up to 99 years, but full ownership (especially for investors) is preferred.

2. Define Your Budget & Open A Bank Account

• Decide your budget upfront. Include buyer agency fees (~2%), DLD transfer fee (4%), service charges, and mortgage costs (if applicable).
• Open a UAE bank account early—you’ll need it to pay deposits, DLD fees, and utility bills.

3. Hire A Licensed Agent

Choose a RERA-certified real estate agent and sign Form B to appoint them officially. This ensures compliance and protection under Dubai law. A trustworthy agent saves you time, handles legal checks, and ensures the developer or seller is credible.

4. Find The Right Property & Make An Offer

Explore freehold areas like Downtown, Marina, JVC, Dubai Hills, Palm Jumeirah and compare off‑plan vs. resale offerings based on ROI and lifestyle goal. When you find your match, your agent will negotiate the price and draft an offer.

5. Sign Memorandum Of Understanding (Form F)

Once terms are agreed, sign the Form F (MOU) with the seller and agent—this outlines deposit, payment structure, handover timeline, and conditions. At this point, you’ll typically pay a 10%–20% deposit.

6. Secure Developer NOC & Complete Payment Schedule

For off‑plan properties, the developer issues an NOC (No Objection Certificate) after signing. Make sure payments go into escrow for protection. For ready properties, payments follow the agreed timeline toward handover or title deed issue.

7. Transfer Ownership AT DLD & Get Your Title Deed

Once fully paid, schedule a transfer appointment at the Dubai Land Department or a Trustee Office. You’ll pay 4% transfer fee plus registration charges and receive your title deed-legal proof you own the property.

8. Register Tenancy With Ejari (If Renting)

If you’re leasing the property, register the tenancy contract via EJARI, which protects both tenants and landlords and is legally required for utility connections and residency visa applications.

9. Enjoy Tax Free Market Advantages

Dubai offers no property taxes, no capital gains, and no income tax. Rental yields in top areas range between 5–8%, making property investment highly attractive.

AURRIA-Exclusive Tips For 2025

• For Golden Visa buyers: Property investments of AED 2M+ allow you to apply for a 10-year visa immediately after getting your title deed.
• Free zone companies can now own property in Dubai as part of recent reforms great news for business owners setting up in the UAE.
• Watch the market: 2025 will bring ~41,000 new units, especially in sustainable, smart developments—ideal for investment conversions or long-term living.

Why Buy Through AURRIA

• We guide you end-to-end from sourcing golden-visa eligible properties to handling legal steps and sales logistics.
• Our agents manage all paperwork (Form B, MOU, NOC, DLD, EJARI) so you don’t have to.
• We only work with business-registered, escrow-backed developments.
• Full visibility on service fees, DLD costs, agency charges- no hidden surprises.

Ready To Buy With Confidence?

Let AURRIA turn your property purchase into a clean, seamless milestone:

• Book a Free Strategy Call
• Get Matched with Your Ideal Property
• Start Your Golden Visa Application

 Get in Touch Today

because buying property in Dubai should be smart, secure, and stress-free.