Guide
Arpan Ghosh January 11, 2024 0 Comments

Your Complete Guide to Buying Property in Dubai

Buying property in Dubai may seem like a complex venture, with local laws, regulations, and associated expenses to consider. However, armed with the right knowledge, the process can be straightforward and rewarding. In this guide, we’ll break down the fundamentals of purchasing property in Dubai, offering insights into who can buy, where to buy, necessary documentation, legal factors, and the overall process.

1. Who Can Buy Property in Dubai?

One of the appealing aspects of Dubai’s real estate market is its openness to international buyers. Here are some key points to consider:

  • Nationality: Anyone of any nationality can purchase freehold property in Dubai. There is no requirement for UAE citizenship or residency status.
  • Permits: No special permits or documentation are needed for property purchases.

2. Where Can You Buy Property in Dubai?

Dubai offers a variety of freehold areas authorized for property transactions by the UAE governing bodies. While many well-known residential neighborhoods fall into this category, it’s advisable to consult with a trusted real estate agent or legal representative for the most up-to-date information.

All property transactions are regulated by the Dubai Land Department (DLD).

3. Required Documentation

Before proceeding with a property purchase, you’ll need to prepare the necessary documentation. These requirements may vary depending on whether you are an individual or a corporate entity. Here’s an overview of the documents you will need when buying property in Dubai:

For Individual Buyers:

  • Buyer’s passport
  • Legal ID
  • Proof of address
  • Contact details

For Corporate Buyers:

  • Original Certificate of Incorporation or Trade License
  • Original Memorandum and Article of Association
  • Legal translation of the memorandum and articles of association
  • Original certificate of incumbency (not more than 3 months old)
  • Copy of shareholders’ passports
  • Original resolution approving the purchase
  • Original Power of Attorney (POA)
  • Original passport of the attorney

Please note that these requirements can change over time, and it’s essential to consult with your realtor or an authorized representative of the Dubai Land Department before finalizing any transactions.

4. Legal Considerations

Seeking legal advice is highly recommended before making any property-related decisions. Here are some legal factors to bear in mind when buying property in Dubai:

  • If represented by Power of Attorney, ensure that the document is notarized in the country of origin, legalized by the UAE Embassy, and attested at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the UAE.
  • All documents submitted to the DLD must be translated into Arabic by a certified legal translator.
  • Stay informed about local property laws and regulations to ensure compliance.

5. The Property Purchase Process

The process for buying property in Dubai typically involves two options: off-plan and secondary properties.

For Off-Plan Properties:

  • Agreement on sale terms and property price with the developer.
  • Signing of a reservation agreement and payment of reservation fees and/or initial installments.
  • Signing of a Sales & Purchase Agreement (SPA), including the expected property completion date.
  • Issuance of an Oqood document, serving as temporary registration.
  • Oqood fee payment (typically 4% of the purchase price).
  • Payment of installments until the property is fully paid.
  • Upon completion, the Oqood becomes a title deed in the buyer’s name.

For Secondary Properties:

  • Agreement on sale terms and property price with the seller.
  • Signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and MOU registration with the DLD, along with a 10% deposit.
  • Application for a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the developer.
  • Official property transfer registration with a 4% transfer fee.
  • Compliance with payment methods and settlement of existing property mortgages.

6. VAT in Property Purchases

Currently, residential property transactions in Dubai are not subject to Value Added Tax (VAT). However, it’s advisable to stay updated on tax regulations through legal advisors or private client advisors for any changes.

7. Residence Permits

Property buyers in Dubai can obtain a two-year renewable residence permit, provided certain conditions are met. The minimum investment for a permit is AED 750,000, and the property must be located in a freehold area. This permit allows for sponsoring dependents and domestic staff. To maintain the validity of the permit, property owners should not stay outside the UAE for more than six consecutive months.

Investors who plan to stay in the UAE for the long term can avail of the ‘Golden Visa’, which comprises two different categories – a 5-year residence permit and a 10-year residence permit. The minimum investment is AED 2 million, and there are some additional individual requirements for each category that you should check with your realtor or the Dubai Land Department.

Navigating the property market in Dubai can be a seamless experience when armed with the right knowledge and guidance. Whether you’re looking for a stunning villa or a sleek apartment, Dubai’s real estate offerings are both diverse and accessible, making it a desirable destination for purchasing property.

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