FAQ’s
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FAQ’s
FAQ
Frequently
Asked Questions
CAN FOREIGNERS BUY PROPERTY IN DUBAI?
Yes. Dubai allows 100% foreign ownership in designated freehold areas with no restrictions on nationality. Investors from any country can purchase apartments, villas, townhouses and off-plan properties in areas such as Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, Business Bay, Palm Jumeirah and Dubai Hills Estate. There is no requirement to be a UAE resident to own property in Dubai.
WHAT IS AN OFF-PLAN PROPERTY IN DUBAI?
Off-plan properties are purchased directly from developers before or during construction. They typically offer lower entry prices than ready properties, flexible payment plans spread across the construction period, and strong capital appreciation potential upon completion. Dubai’s off-plan market is one of the most active in the world with major developers such as Emaar, DAMAC, Sobha and Ellington launching new projects regularly.
WHAT ARE THE FEES INVOLVED IN BUYING PROPERTY IN DUBAI?
The standard costs when purchasing property in Dubai include a Dubai Land Department (DLD) transfer fee of 4% of the purchase price, agency commission of 2%, DLD admin fees of approximately AED 4,000, and a mortgage registration fee of 0.25% if applicable. For off-plan properties, some developers cover the DLD fee as part of launch promotions. ARDON advisors will provide a full cost breakdown before you commit to any purchase.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO COMPLETE A PROPERTY PURCHASE IN DUBAI?
For ready properties the transfer process at the Dubai Land Department typically takes 1 to 3 weeks from signing the MOU to receiving the title deed. For cash purchases the process can be completed in as little as 5 to 7 working days. Mortgage purchases take slightly longer due to bank processing times typically 3 to 6 weeks. For off-plan properties the booking process can be completed within 24 to 48 hours with just a passport and booking deposit. ARDON manages the entire timeline ensuring every step is completed efficiently and on schedule.
WHAT IS A SNAG INSPECTION AND DO I NEED ONE?
A snag inspection is a thorough check of your property before you accept the keys from the developer at handover. A professional snagging company inspects every detail including walls, flooring, plumbing, electrical fittings, windows, doors and appliances to identify any defects or unfinished work that the developer must rectify before handover is accepted. We strongly recommend every buyer conduct a professional snag inspection before signing the handover certificate. ARDON can connect you with trusted snagging specialists in Dubai who protect your investment from day one.
HOW DOES THE UAE GOLDEN VISA WORK FOR PROPERTY INVESTORS?
The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residency visa valid for 10 years and fully renewable. Property investors who purchase real estate worth AED 2 million or more are eligible to apply. The visa covers the investor, spouse, children and household staff. It requires no sponsor and allows 100% business ownership in the UAE. ARDON can guide you through Golden Visa eligible properties and assist with the application process from start to finish.
WHAT IS A SERVICE CHARGE IN DUBAI AND HOW MUCH IS IT?
A service charge is an annual fee paid by property owners to cover the maintenance and management of shared facilities such as swimming pools, gyms, lobbies, security and landscaping. Service charges in Dubai are regulated by RERA and vary by community and building. Typical rates range from AED 10 to AED 30 per square foot per year depending on the development and amenities offered. ARDON provides full transparency on service charge rates for every property we recommend so you can accurately calculate your net investment returns before making any decision.
WHAT IS A PAYMENT PLAN AND HOW DOES IT WORK IN DUBAI?
A payment plan allows buyers to pay for off-plan properties in instalments rather than a lump sum. A typical plan requires 10-20% on booking, followed by quarterly or milestone-based instalments during construction, and a final payment on handover. Many developers also offer post-handover payment plans extending 2-3 years after completion making Dubai property highly accessible for international investors.
DO I NEED TO BE IN DUBAI TO BUY A PROPERTY?
No. Many ARDON clients invest remotely from overseas. We handle the entire process on your behalf including property selection, reservation, documentation signing and Dubai Land Department registration. All paperwork can be completed digitally or via a notarised Power of Attorney. We work with investors across Europe, Asia, Africa and the GCC who purchase Dubai property without visiting in person.
WHAT IS THE EXPECTED RENTAL YIELD ON DUBAI PROPERTY?
Dubai consistently delivers some of the world’s highest rental yields, typically ranging from 6% to 12% gross per annum depending on property type and location. Areas such as Business Bay, Dubai Marina, Jumeirah Village Circle and Dubai Silicon Oasis are known for strong rental demand and high yield returns. Combined with zero income tax and zero capital gains tax, Dubai offers exceptional net returns compared to other global property markets.
ARE THERE ANY TAXES ON PROPERTY IN DUBAI?
Dubai has no income tax, no capital gains tax and no inheritance tax on property. The only property-related charge is a one-time 4% Dubai Land Department transfer fee payable at purchase. There is also a 5% VAT applicable on agency commission. This makes Dubai one of the most tax-efficient real estate investment destinations in the world, particularly for investors from high-tax countries such as the UK, India, Europe and North America.
WHAT IS RERA AND WHY DOES IT MATTER?
RERA stands for Real Estate Regulatory Agency — the government body responsible for regulating Dubai’s property market. All developers, brokers, projects and rental agreements must be registered with RERA. Working with a RERA-licensed agency like ARDON Premium Properties ensures your transaction is fully compliant, your deposit is protected in an escrow account, and you have legal recourse in the event of any dispute.
IS DUBAI PROPERTY A SAFE INVESTMENT IN 2026?
Dubai’s property market in 2026 remains one of the most resilient and high-performing real estate markets in the world. The emirate continues to attract record levels of foreign investment driven by strong population growth, a booming tourism sector, expanding infrastructure, zero income tax and one of the world’s most business-friendly regulatory environments. Dubai’s property prices have shown consistent year-on-year growth while rental demand remains exceptionally strong across all communities. The Dubai Land Department and RERA provide robust legal protections for buyers ensuring full transparency and security for both local and international investors. ARDON Premium Properties helps you navigate this dynamic market with expert guidance so your investment is positioned for maximum long-term returns.
HOW DO I GET STARTED WITH ARDON PREMIUM PROPERTIES?
Getting started is simple. Contact us via our website enquiry form, call us directly on +971 54 220 7555 or send us a message on WhatsApp. One of our senior RERA-certified investment advisors will respond within 2 hours to understand your requirements, budget and investment goals — and present the most suitable Dubai properties for your needs. There is no obligation and no upfront fees.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN FREEHOLD AND LEASEHOLD PROPERTY IN DUBAI?
Freehold property gives the buyer full ownership of the property and the land it sits on with no time restriction. Foreigners can purchase freehold property in designated freehold zones across Dubai. Leasehold property gives the buyer the right to use the property for a fixed period typically between 10 and 99 years without owning the land. ARDON exclusively focuses on freehold properties in Dubai’s most prestigious communities giving our clients full and permanent ownership rights.
CAN I GET A MORTGAGE IN DUBAI AS A FOREIGNER?
Yes. Non-resident foreigners can obtain a mortgage in Dubai from UAE-based banks. Expatriates and foreign nationals can typically borrow up to 75% of the property value for properties under AED 5 million and up to 65% for properties above AED 5 million. You will need a valid passport, proof of income, bank statements and a good credit history. ARDON works with trusted mortgage advisors who specialise in helping international investors secure the best financing options available in the UAE market.
WHICH ARE THE BEST AREAS TO INVEST IN DUBAI RIGHT NOW?
Dubai’s top investment locations in 2026 include Downtown Dubai for iconic luxury living and strong capital appreciation, Dubai Marina for high rental demand and waterfront lifestyle, Business Bay for high yields and proximity to the CBD, Palm Jumeirah for ultra-luxury villas and branded residences, Dubai Hills Estate for family living and long-term growth, and Dubai Creek Harbour for emerging waterfront investment at competitive prices. ARDON advisors provide personalised location recommendations based on your budget, investment goals and lifestyle preferences.
WHAT DOCUMENTS DO I NEED TO BUY PROPERTY IN DUBAI?
For most property purchases in Dubai you will need a valid passport copy, a signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) or Sales Purchase Agreement (SPA), proof of funds or mortgage pre-approval, and payment for the DLD transfer fee. For off-plan purchases the process is simpler and typically requires only your passport and booking deposit. ARDON handles all documentation and coordinates with developers and the Dubai Land Department on your behalf ensuring a smooth and fully compliant transaction.










