Dubai real estate investment
One of the hottest property markets in the world: near-zero taxation, high yields and full ownership for foreign investors. We have gathered everything you need to know, and if you want to take it further, we will connect you with leading brokers who know the market up close.
0%
tax on rent and capital gains
8-12%
gross rental yield a year
0% tax
No tax on rental income, no capital gains tax and no annual property tax at the emirate level.
High yields
Gross rental yields of 8 to 12 percent in sought-after areas, well above much of Europe.
Full ownership
In freehold areas a foreign investor holds full ownership of the property, in their own name.
Currency stability
The dirham is pegged to the US dollar, which reduces currency risk on the investment.
Illustration only
A studio in Business Bay at about 750,000 dirhams (roughly 204,000 US dollars), at a gross rental yield of 10 percent, produces about 75,000 dirhams a year, roughly 6,250 a month. This is an illustration only, before management fees, and is not a promise of any return.
Dubai splits into clear investment areas, each with its own character, entry price and yield. Click a pin on the map to see details about the area.
Downtown Dubai
Premium property next to the Burj Khalifa, with steady, high rental demand. A high entry price.
Dubai Marina and JBR
Beach living and tourism, especially strong for short-term rentals.
Business Bay
Central and growing, with a more accessible entry price and an attractive yield.
JVC, Jumeirah Village Circle
A favourite of first-time investors, among the highest yields in the city.
Dubai Hills Estate
A green luxury area with a mall and a park, and good upside potential.
Dubai Creek Harbour
A flagship future project, with plenty of off-plan property at attractive prices.
Choose a property
An off-plan unit from the developer in instalments, or a ready property for immediate rental.
Sign and register
A sale contract, official registration with the Land Department (DLD) and a fee of about 4% of the price.
Rent and manage
A management company handles the rental and maintenance, even if you are not in Dubai.
Tell us a little about what you are looking for and we will connect you with a partner broker who can follow up. No obligation.
Your details are passed to partner real estate brokers for the sole purpose of following up with you. By sending, you agree to this.
Yes. In freehold areas a foreign investor may buy a property with full ownership, in their own name, with no need for a local partner.
At the emirate level there is no tax on rental income, no capital gains tax and no annual property tax. There is a one-off registration fee of about 4%. You may still owe tax in your home country, so consult an accountant.
Gross rental yields in Dubai typically run between 8 and 12 percent in sought-after areas, but this varies by property, area and management fees. These are general figures, not a guarantee.
An off-plan property is bought from the developer before or during construction, usually in instalments and at a lower price but with a wait. A ready property is available for immediate occupancy and rental.
Local property management companies handle finding tenants, collection and maintenance for a percentage of the income. Factor that into your net yield.
The information on this page is general and for information purposes only, and is not investment advice, tax advice or a recommendation to buy. Property investment carries risk. Consult qualified professionals before making a decision.
