Foreign Property Investing in Dubai

If you’ve ever questioned if investors abroad can purchase Dubai property, we have good news. Spoiler alert: You can, and it’s now easier and more lucrative than ever.

Dubai’s residential property market opened up to foreigners in 2002 and has attracted numerous expats and investors abroad ever since. 

Foreigners can purchase property in freehold areas, which are spread out across the emirate. The number of units available to foreigners has grown drastically over time with a wide range of apartments, villas, and townhouses currently available.

The emirate’s tax-free status plays a key role in attracting foreign investment, as residential properties in Dubai remain tax-free after the introduction of a Value Added Tax in 2018. 

New amendments to the Golden Investor Visa Program are now attracting even more foreign investors, with the most highly sought-after Golden Investor Visa now available for purchases worth AED 2M+ ($544K+), including off-plan property purchases.

Popular Freehold Areas in Dubai

Business Bay
 

This vibrant area is considered an oasis for business and trade, as well as a highly sought-after area for tourism and nightlife, as it lies adjacent to downtown Dubai, and offers incredible views of Burj Khalifa and other various landmarks.  

With prices starting at AED 450K ($122K), it’s easy to see why foreign investors are putting this famous business hub at the top of our list. 

Downtown Dubai
 

World-famous for iconic landmarks like Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai is a beautiful community with opulent freehold property, surrounded by the most amazing entertainment, retail, and dining experiences Dubai has to offer. 

Properties in Downtown Dubai start at AED 900K ($245K).

Dubai Marina

Known for its iconic views and unique skyline, the Marina is easily one of the most sought-after areas in Dubai, for investors and residents alike. This upscale freehold area offers beaches, a massive canal, culinary hot spots, malls, and much more.

Properties in the iconic Dubai Marina can be found starting at AED 600K ($163K)

Dubai International Financial Center (DIFC)

DIFC is a community adjacent to Downtown, offering mixed-use, high-end properties. The area is located directly next to Sheikh Zayed Road and offers a diverse array of amenities, such as art galleries, supermarkets, high-end restaurants, and more.

DIFC properties are currently starting at AED 1.4M ($381K)

Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR)

JBR is a six-cluster residential and commercial project. Residents enjoy mesmerizing beachfront property with incredible views of the Gulf and Dubai Marina. Investors often look to this area for its high tourism demand coming from direct beach access, and endless entertainment. 

JBR properties are available starting at AED 1.2M ($326K)

Other Freehold Areas

Beyond these iconic areas, Dubai offers many more amazing apartment, villa, and townhouse communities to give foreign buyers a wide variety of options. 

Take a look through our Area Guide to discover your next investment property or dream home, and please do not hesitate to reach out, and let our trained experts show you how easy it is to purchase property in Dubai, from here or abroad, and with any currency.