Dubai has become one of the world’s most dynamic real estate markets, attracting international investors from more than 190 countries. In 2023, property transactions crossed AED 300 billion, and by mid-2025, monthly sales consistently exceed AED 30–35 billion (DXBinteract). For global buyers, choosing the right Dubai real estate company is crucial. The right partner ensures compliance, transparency, and profitable investments, while the wrong choice can lead to financial and legal troubles.
This guide explores what international investors should know about Dubai real estate companies, the regulations that protect buyers, and the services top agencies provide.
Why Dubai Appeals to International Investors
Dubai’s property market is structured to attract global capital:
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Freehold ownership: Investors from any nationality can buy in designated freehold areas.
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Tax efficiency: No property tax and no income tax on rental income.
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Residency benefits: Property worth AED 2M+ qualifies for the Golden Visa.
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Strategic hub: Gateway between East and West with world-class infrastructure.
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Strong returns: Average rental yields between 5–8%, with some areas offering 10%+ (DXBinteract H1 2025).
Key Regulations Protecting Investors
International investors benefit from Dubai’s robust regulatory framework:
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RERA Licensing: All brokers must be licensed by the Real Estate Regulatory Agency.
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Escrow Accounts: Off-plan payments go into regulated escrow accounts, protecting buyers until construction milestones are achieved.
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Title Deeds via DLD: The Dubai Land Department registers all transactions, providing legal proof of ownership.
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Rental Index: RERA regulates annual rental increases, offering transparency for landlords and tenants.
What to Expect from Top Dubai Real Estate Companies
The best agencies for international investors go beyond property sales. They provide:
1. Multilingual Support
Companies should offer services in English, Arabic, Russian, Chinese, French, German, and more — reflecting Dubai’s global investor base.
2. Transparent Processes
Investors should expect:
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Clear fee structures (DLD fee 4%, Oqood AED 3,000, agency commission ~2%)
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Written agreements
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Escrow details for off-plan projects
3. Investment Advisory
Top companies use data-driven insights. Platforms like DXB Interact provide:
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Area comparisons
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Rental yield trends
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Transaction volumes
Many international buyers live abroad. Trusted companies like fäm properties provide:
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Tenant sourcing
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Lease management
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Utility connections
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Maintenance coordination
5. Golden Visa Assistance
Real estate companies should guide investors through the process of obtaining the 10-year residency visa linked to AED 2M+ property investments. See: Golden Visa through Real Estate.
International buyers should be alert to warning signs:
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No RERA license displayed
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Requests for cash payments outside escrow
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Unrealistic yield promises (12%+ guaranteed)
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Hidden fees or vague contracts
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No after-sales support
For a deeper dive, see our guide: 10 Red Flags When Choosing a Real Estate Company in Dubai.
Best Practices for International Investors
1. Verify Credentials
Use the Dubai REST app to confirm broker licensing and DLD registration.
2. Compare Areas
According to DXBinteract (H1 2025):
3. Understand All Fees
Factor in:
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DLD fee (4%)
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Oqood (AED 3,000 for off-plan)
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Agency fee (~2%)
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DEWA deposits (AED 2,000–4,000)
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Service charges (varies by development)
For overseas owners, property management ensures steady income and minimal vacancy.
5. Legal Review
Have contracts reviewed by an independent lawyer before signing.
Why Work with fäm properties
As Dubai’s leading data-driven real estate company, fäm properties provides international investors with:
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4.9★ Google reviews from global clients
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Direct access to DXBinteract data
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Full after-sales support including property management
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Expertise across prime and emerging communities
FAQs
Q: Can international investors buy freehold property in Dubai?
A: Yes. Non-UAE nationals can buy in designated freehold zones such as Downtown, Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah, and JVC.
Q: What is the minimum investment for the Golden Visa?
A: AED 2M in property value (completed or off-plan from approved developers).
Q: Do I need to be in Dubai to complete a purchase?
A: No. You can assign a Power of Attorney or complete transactions remotely, though a visit is recommended during handover.
Q: What rental yields can I expect?
A: Average yields are 5–8%. Affordable communities may exceed 9–10%.
Ready to explore Dubai’s property market with confidence? Work with fäm properties, Dubai’s trusted real estate partner for international investors. From licensing checks to after-sales management, we ensure your investment journey is smooth and profitable.
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