Buying and ownership
Buying property in Dubai as a foreigner: what the law allows
Foreign nationals can acquire property in Dubai, but only in designated areas and only by registration. What the law settles, and what you need to check yourself.
Guide
Guide: buying property in Dubai
A practical guide for buyers and investors from Germany, Austria and Switzerland – factual, sourced and regularly updated.
Buying and ownership
Buying and ownership
The buying process in Dubai: steps for a completed property and for off-plan
From the sale contract to the title deed: the steps for a completed property and for an off-plan purchase, and which of them are law and which are market practice.
Buying and ownership
Off-plan in Dubai: what to check before you buy
When you buy off-plan, the law protects certain payments, but not against every risk. What escrow and Oqood achieve, what applies on default and what you should check.
Costs and financing
Costs and financing
Purchase costs in Dubai: fees, ongoing costs and mortgage caps
Which fees arise when you buy in Dubai, which are fixed by law and which are merely market practice, and which costs continue after the purchase.
Tax and law
Tax and law
Tax on a property in Dubai: Germany, Austria and Switzerland
The UAE levies no personal income tax on individuals, but that answers only half the question. Where the double taxation agreements stand for Germany, Austria and Switzerland.
Letting and risks
Letting and risks
Letting a property in Dubai: rules, costs and risks
Long-term letting with Ejari registration, holiday letting only with a licence and a permit: the rules, the ongoing costs and the risks that come with 2026.
First conversation, no obligation
Questions about your situation?
This article offers general guidance. In a first conversation we clarify which points should be checked for your plans – and by whom.