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Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about buying, selling, renting, and investing in Dubai's dynamic real estate market.

Can foreigners buy property in Dubai?

Yes, foreign nationals can purchase property in Dubai within designated "Freehold Areas." These areas include prime locations like Dubai Marina, Downtown Dubai, Palm Jumeirah, Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC), and Dubai Hills Estate. Buying in a freehold area grants you 100% absolute ownership of both the property and the land it occupies.

What are the extra costs associated with buying property?

Beyond the actual property price, buyers should budget for the following standard transaction fees in Dubai:

  • DLD Transfer Fee: 4% of the property value (paid to the Dubai Land Department).
  • Real Estate Agency Fee: Typically 2% of the property value + 5% VAT.
  • Registration Trustee Fee: Approx. AED 4,000 + 5% VAT.
  • NOC Fee: Ranging between AED 1,000 to AED 5,000 (paid to the developer for No Objection Certificate).

Does buying property qualify me for a UAE Golden Visa?

Yes, property investment is one of the most straightforward pathways to UAE residency:

  • 10-Year Golden Visa: Requires a minimum property investment of AED 2 Million. You can combine multiple properties to reach this amount. Both ready and off-plan properties are eligible.
  • 2-Year Investor Visa: Requires a minimum property investment of AED 750,000 (for ready properties only).

Visas can also be sponsored for your spouse and dependents.

What is an "Off-Plan" property, and is my money safe?

Off-plan refers to purchasing a property directly from a developer while it is still under construction. Yes, your investment is highly secure. The Dubai government (RERA) mandates that all investor payments go directly into an approved Escrow Account. The developer can only access these funds as construction milestones are independently verified and completed.

What is Oqood in Off-Plan real estate?

"Oqood" is an online service provided by Emirates Real Estate Solutions (ERES) that registers off-plan property contracts. When you buy off-plan, you pay the 4% DLD fee to register the property under Oqood. Once the property is fully constructed and handed over, this Oqood registration is automatically converted into a regular Title Deed in your name.

Do I have to pay Capital Gains Tax when selling my property?

No! One of the biggest advantages of investing in Dubai is the tax framework. There is 0% Capital Gains Tax and 0% Property Tax in Dubai. If you buy a property for AED 1M and sell it for AED 2M, you keep 100% of the profit.

What is the process of selling my property in Dubai?

The standard process involves:

  • Form A: Signing a mandate with Auric Acres to officially market your property.
  • Form F (MOU): Once a buyer is found, both parties sign the Memorandum of Understanding.
  • NOC: We apply for a No Objection Certificate from the property developer to ensure all service charges are cleared.
  • Transfer: Both parties meet at the DLD Trustee Office to transfer the Title Deed and hand over the manager's cheques.

What is Ejari and why is it mandatory?

"Ejari" (meaning 'My Rent' in Arabic) is a government-run regulatory system that registers all tenancy contracts in Dubai. It protects the rights of both the landlord and the tenant. You must have a registered Ejari certificate to set up your DEWA (water/electricity), home internet, or to sponsor family visas.

Can my landlord arbitrarily increase my rent?

No. Rent increases in Dubai are strictly regulated by the RERA Rental Increase Calculator. A landlord can only increase the rent if the current rent falls significantly below the market average for that specific area. Furthermore, the landlord must provide the tenant with exactly 90 days' written notice prior to contract renewal if they intend to change the rental price.

Do I need to be in Dubai to buy or sell property?

No, you do not need to be physically present. Whether buying or selling, you can grant a Power of Attorney (POA) to Auric Acres or a registered legal representative. We handle the paperwork, Title Deed transfer, and secure cheque handovers on your behalf remotely.

Can I get a mortgage as a non-resident in the UAE?

Yes, non-residents can obtain mortgages from UAE banks. While residents can typically borrow up to 80% (for properties under 5M AED), non-residents can generally borrow up to 50% to 60% of the property's value. You will need to provide bank statements, a passport copy, and proof of income from your home country.

Still Have Questions?

Our expert team is here to guide you through every step of your real estate journey.