Buy property in Dubai [2025 Guide]
Dubai’s popularity as a go-to holiday destination and thriving real estate market has made it a hotspot for property investments around the world. Even better? Buying property in Dubai is possible for US citizens, subject to a few restrictions.
You might be looking for a second home in the UAE, a holiday escape in the desert sun, or a long-term investment in one of the world’s fastest-growing real estate markets.
This guide covers all you need to start your research. We’ll cover how to buy a home in Dubai step by step, the key requirements to keep in mind, and the costs you’ll need to plan for along the way.
Buying property overseas often means transferring large sums of money internationally, we’ll also look at providers like Wise and OFX to help you make cheap, fast and safe international transfers when it really counts.
Table of Contents
- Key points
- Can US citizens buy property in Dubai
- How to buy a home in Dubai step by step
- How much does it cost to buy property in Dubai?
- Best ways to transfer money online to buy property in Dubai from US
- Financing a property purchase in Dubai
- Cheapest ways to pay for a property in Dubai
- Tips for foreigners
- Conclusion & FAQs
Key points: Buying property in Dubai as a foreigner
- Foreigners can legally buy freehold property in designated areas like Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, and Palm Jumeirah
- You’ll typically need a minimum deposit of 20–40%, depending on your residency status and property value
- Buying property in Dubai does not automatically grant permanent residency, but you may qualify for a 3- or 10-year investor visa
- There are no annual property taxes, but a one-time 4% registration fee applies at the time of purchase
- Consider using a specialist provider like Wise and OFX to transfer money from the US to Dubai for your property purchase, with great rates and low fees
| FAQs | Answers |
|---|---|
| Can I buy property in Dubai as a US citizen without being a resident? | Yes, US citizens can buy property in Dubai without being residents, in approved freehold zones. |
| Can I live in Dubai permanently if I buy a property? | No, but you may be eligible for a 3-year or 10-year investor visa depending on your property value. |
| What is the cheapest way to transfer money from the US to Dubai? | Compare options like Wise or OFX for better exchange rates and fees. |
| How much tax do you pay on buying a property in Dubai? | There’s no annual tax, but you’ll pay a one-time 4% property registration fee. |
Can US citizens buy property in Dubai?
Yes, US citizens can legally buy property in Dubai, thanks to legal changes in 2002 that allow foreigners to buy, sell and rent property in Dubai without any special regulations or permissions.
Foreign nationals, including US citizens, are allowed to buy property in designated freehold areas of Dubai. These areas are specifically set aside for international buyers and include popular locations like Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, Dubai Creek Tower, and Palm Jumeirah.
While buying a property in Dubai won’t automatically grant you residency, investors who purchase real estate worth AED 2 million or more may be eligible to apply for a 10-year UAE Golden Visa, offering long-term residency and added flexibility if you plan to live or do business in the UAE.
What are the requirements to buy a house in Dubai?
If you’re an US citizen buying a property in Dubai, you’ll need to follow the rules we’ve touched upon above, and make sure you have the following documentation in place:
- A valid US passport
- A signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), also known as Contract Form F
- A 10% security deposit to reserve the property
- A No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the developer (for resale properties)
- A manager’s cheque for the final sale amount
How to buy a home in Dubai step by step
The process to buy property in Dubai is fairly straightforward, even for international buyers. That said, it’s still a big investment—so having a clear idea of what to expect, and getting the right support along the way, will make things a lot smoother.
To give a flavour, here’s how to buy a home in Dubai step by step if you’re a US citizen:
1. Get your finances in order and engage a real estate agent
Start by working out your budget, including how much you’ll need to set aside for the deposit and additional fees. If you’re planning to apply for a mortgage, get pre-approval so you know what you can borrow.
Then it’s time to connect with a licensed real estate agent in Dubai who knows the local market. They’ll help shortlist properties, arrange viewings, and support you with negotiations and paperwork.
2. Find the right property and make an offer
You can search for properties online or through your agent. Make sure the property is located in a freehold zone where foreigners are legally allowed to buy.
Once you’ve found a place that fits your needs, make an offer. You may need to show proof of funds or a mortgage pre-approval at this stage.
3. Sign the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and pay your deposit
If the seller accepts your offer, the next step is to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)—also known as Contract Form F—outlining the key terms of the deal.
You’ll also need to pay at least a 10% deposit, usually via manager’s cheque, to secure the property. This is held in trust and refunded if the sale doesn’t go through for valid reasons.
4. Apply for a No Objection Certificate (NOC) and complete legal checks
Before the transfer can take place, you’ll need to apply for an NOC from the property developer to confirm there are no outstanding fees. You’ll also want to carry out legal due diligence to check the title deed is clean and the property is free of liens or mortgages.
5. Finalise payment and transfer ownership at the Dubai Land Department
On the agreed completion date, both buyer and seller meet at the Dubai Land Department (DLD) to complete the transfer. You’ll need to bring the MOU, NOC, personal ID, and payment for the balance of the purchase.
Once everything is verified, the DLD will issue a new title deed in your name, and the keys are officially yours.
Paying for your property from the US? Use a specialist for international transfers
When sending large sums of money from the US to Dubai, using your bank might seem easiest—but it’s often the most expensive route. Between high fees and marked-up exchange rates, the costs can really eat into your budget.
Instead, consider using a provider like Wise, which uses the mid-market exchange rate and offers low, transparent fees, with discounts for higher-value transfers. Or check out OFX, which charges no transfer fees and has no maximum transfer limit—making it a good pick for high-value property purchases. In either case you may save compared to using your bank.
How much does it cost to buy property in Dubai?
Property prices in Dubai can vary significantly depending on the type of property and its location. From ultra-luxury villas to compact studio apartments, there’s a broad range of options—whether you’re buying to invest, live in, or let out.
On average, apartments in Dubai cost around 1,000–4,000 AED per square foot depending on whether you’re buying in the city centre or the outskirts. A one-bedroom apartment in popular expat areas like Dubai Marina can cost around 97,000 AED (approximately 26,500 USD)
Naturally, location and amenities are major factors in pricing, and demand in certain areas can push prices up quickly. That’s why working with a local agent who understands the market is essential.
Additional costs to budget for
On top of the sale price, you’ll also need to plan for several additional fees:
- Dubai Land Department (DLD) transfer fee: 4% of property value
- Registration trustee fee: AED 4,000
- Agency commission: Typically 2-10% of the purchase price
- NOC fee (No Objection Certificate): Around AED 500–5,000, depending on the developer
- Mortgage registration fee (if applicable): 0.25% of the loan value
- Maintenance fees: Charged annually by building management (varies by property)
And don’t forget the hidden costs of sending large amounts of money internationally—bank fees and exchange rate markups can take a big bite out of your budget. Providers like Wise offer cheap, fast and secure international transfers, which can help bring down your overall costs.
Wise: Wise uses the mid-market exchange rate and offers low cost, high-value transfers, with discounts of up to 0.17% on fee costs. Find Wise AED exchange rate here.
OFX: OFX has no transfer cost and no limit on the amount you can send, but exchange rates can include a markup. Find OFX AED exchange rates here.
Cheapest places to buy property in Dubai
While Dubai is known for its luxury developments, there are still areas where you can find relatively affordable properties—especially if you’re flexible on location or buying off-plan.
Here are a few areas where property tends to be more affordable:
- International City: One of the most budget-friendly areas in Dubai with average prices costing around AED 590–616 per sq ft.
- Dubai Silicon Oasis: Located a bit further out, but still well connected. Offers value-for-money properties with decent amenities.
- Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC): A growing community with mid-range pricing. Offers a mix of apartments, townhouses, and villas, and is popular with first-time buyers.
These areas are often cheaper due to factors like being further from the city centre, still under development, or offering smaller unit sizes. That said, they can offer great value for buyers looking for either long-term residence or investment rental returns.
Best ways to transfer money to Dubai to buy property from US
If you’re transferring money to Dubai to buy property it’s crucial that you find the best transfer method to get your money where it needs to be safely and with low overall costs. You can send with your bank, but this is often a costly choice. Digital providers like Wise or OFX can be cheaper and easier to use, with great exchange rates and intuitive in app payment services. Invest some time in finding the right provider for your payment, based on the value and your personal preferences.
Here are some ideas to consider when researching the best providers for transferring money to buy Dubai property:
| Provider | Limits | Transfer fees | Exchange rates | Speed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OFX | No limits | Fee varies depending on where the payment originates – often no fee for high value transfers | Exchange rate is likely to include a markup | 1 – 2 days |
| Currencyfair | No stated limit | 3 EUR or equivalent | Exchange rate is likely to include a markup | Variable delivery times based on payment details |
| Wise | Usually around 1 million GBP or the equivalent | From 0.57% | Mid-market rates | 60%+ of payments are instant, 80% arrive in an hour* |
| XE Money Transfer | 500,000 USD | Variable fees based on payment details | Exchange rate is likely to include a markup | Variable delivery times based on payment details |
Details correct at time of research – 22nd April 2025. About Wise pricing/fees: Please see Terms of Use for your region or visit Wise Fees & Pricing for the most up to date pricing and fee information. *The speed of transaction claims depends on individual circumstances and may not be available for all transactions
OFX
OFX offers international transfers in 50+ currencies, which often have no upfront transfer fee if you’re sending large payments.
There’s no limit to the amount you can send with OFX. OFX exchange rates are likely to include a small fee.
Currencyfair
Currencyfair has a flat transfer fee which is the equivalent of 3 euros – just over 3 USD at the time of research. There’s also a small fee added to the exchange rate used to convert your payment before it is deposited in your account in the US.
There’s no advertised Currencyfair limit – if you’re sending a very high value payment you may want to check the limits which apply to your specific account in advance to ensure your transfer can go through smoothly.
Wise
Wise operates in the US and many other countries globally, supporting international transfers to 140+ countries which you can arrange online and in the Wise app.
If you’re sending a high value transfer – more than the equivalent of 20,000 GBP – there’s an automatic discount on the fees you pay, and you can get dedicated support from the Wise large transfers team.
Learn more on our Wise large amount transfers guide.
XE Money Transfer
Xe Money Transfer supports payments to many countries and currencies, with variable fees and exchange rates depending on where you’re sending to.
From the US you can send up to 500,000 USD, for deposit to bank accounts and mobile money accounts.
Is it a good idea to buy a house as an investment in Dubai?
You should take professional advice before buying a property as an investment—in Dubai or anywhere else. Property prices can go up, but they can also go down. While Dubai’s market has seen periods of strong growth, especially in key residential areas, it has also faced dips during global economic slowdowns.
If growing your investment is your main goal, it’s worth looking at the total cost of your purchase—including fees to send your money from the US to Dubai. Banks may charge more than you realise in hidden exchange rate markups and flat fees.
Money transfer providers like Wise offer competitive exchange rates and transparent fees, which could save you a significant amount when sending large payments abroad.
Pros and cons of buying property in Dubai
| Pros of buying property in Dubai | Cons of buying property in Dubai |
|---|---|
| ✅ High rental yields compared to other global cities ✅ No annual property tax or capital gains tax ✅ World-class infrastructure and desirable lifestyle ✅ Foreigners can buy freehold property in designated areas | ❌ Property values can fluctuate with market cycles ❌ Legal procedures can be complex for first-time foreign buyers ❌ Extra costs like maintenance, registration, and NOC fees ❌ Risk of delays or issues with off-plan property purchases |
Financing a property purchase in Dubai
How you finance your property in Dubai will depend on your residency status, financial background, and long-term goals. You can choose to pay in full with cash or apply for a mortgage from a bank in the UAE.
Foreigners, including US nationals, are generally eligible for mortgages in Dubai—but you’ll typically need to be earning an income in the UAE and hold a valid residence visa. Some banks may consider applicants living overseas, but lending criteria are usually stricter, with lower loan-to-value ratios and higher down payment requirements.
Here are the most common ways to finance your purchase:
- Mortgage from a UAE bank: Available to residents and, in some cases, non-residents. You’ll usually need a minimum monthly income (often AED 10,000+), a valid residence visa, and a good credit score. Most banks require a down payment of at least 20–25% for expats.
- Developer financing: Some real estate developers offer post-handover payment plans or in-house financing. These can be appealing if you’re buying off-plan, but often come with shorter terms and less flexibility than bank loans.
- Personal savings or a loan from your home country: If you’re not eligible for a UAE mortgage, you may be able to use savings or a home-country loan instead. Keep in mind that sending large amounts internationally through a bank can lead to high transfer fees and poor exchange rates.
If you’re funding your purchase from the US, it’s worth comparing options for cross-currency transfers. Providers like Wise let you send high-value payments from USD to AED using the mid-market exchange rate and low, transparent fees. That way, more of your money goes towards the property — not bank charges.
Buying a property in Dubai with cash
If you already have the savings, buying a home in Dubai with cash can be a quick and simple option, helping you avoid mortgage interest, long approval processes, and extra paperwork. But there are also some downsides to consider—especially when transferring large sums internationally.
| Pros of paying in cash | Cons of paying in cash |
|---|---|
| ✅ No loan approval or mortgage paperwork ✅ Avoids interest payments and long-term debt ✅ Can speed up the buying process and improve negotiation power | ❌ Ties up a large amount of your liquid assets ❌ Risk of scams or fraud if the transaction isn’t traceable ❌ May raise red flags if not documented properly |
Consider using an alternative like Wise or OFX instead for a seamless and cheap transfer to Dubai.
How much down payment do you need to buy a house in Dubai?
The down payment you’ll need depends on your residency status and the value of the property:
- Expats: Minimum 20% for properties under AED 5 million, 30% for higher-value homes
- UAE Nationals: 15% deposit for properties under AED 5 million, 25% above
- Non-residents: Usually required to pay at least 40% upfront
These percentages are minimums — some lenders may ask for more depending on your financial profile
Paying property tax in Dubai
There’s no annual property tax in Dubai, and no capital gains tax either. However, there is a one-time property registration fee of 4% of the property value, which is usually split between buyer and seller. You may also need to pay ongoing maintenance or service charges, especially in apartment buildings or gated communities.
Factors affecting the house prices
Several factors can impact property prices in Dubai:
- Location: Prime areas like Downtown, Palm Jumeirah, and Dubai Marina usually command higher prices than suburban or emerging communities
- Property type: Villas, apartments, and off-plan properties vary widely in cost
- Market conditions: Global demand, interest rates, and government policies all play a role
- Currency rates: For foreign buyers, the strength of the dirham against their home currency can affect affordability
What’s the property market like in Dubai?
Dubai’s still one of the top picks for global property buyers, with the market going strong in the luxury space.
The government’s push to diversify the economy and attract talent—through initiatives like long-term visas and 100% foreign business ownership—has also helped stimulate the real estate sector. Areas like Dubai Hills Estate, Jumeirah Village Circle, and Dubai Marina continue to see high levels of interest.
That said, property prices in Dubai can be sensitive to wider economic factors, and global inflation, oil prices, interest rate changes, and currency fluctuations can all play a role. Supply and demand also shift quickly — especially in off-plan developments — so price trends can vary sharply between areas and property types. As with any market, there are no guarantees.
Cheapest ways to pay for a property in Dubai
If you’re sending money from the US to pay for a property in Dubai, choosing the right provider could save you thousands. You can either make a high-value international transfer, or open a multi-currency account to manage your money more flexibly.
Specialist money transfer providers often offer better exchange rates and lower fees than banks. They may also allow you to send higher amounts per transfer, making them a better fit for real estate transactions.
For large payments, getting a good exchange rate matters even more, as percentage markups can mount up very quickly and push up the overall amount you pay significantly.
Here’s a reminder of the providers we looked at earlier, and the costs of sending an international payment with them:
| Provider | Fees | Exchange rate |
|---|---|---|
| Wise | Conversion fees starting from 0.57% | Mid-market rate |
| OFX | No fee for high value payments | Exchange rate may include a markup |
| Currencyfair | 3 EUR or the equivalent | Exchange rate may include a markup |
| XE Money Transfer | Variable fees based on payment value and details | Exchange rate may include a markup |
*Details correct at time of writing – 22nd April 2025
You might also want to consider opening a multi-currency account to support regular overseas payments, and to make it easier to manage your money across currencies.
US banks often do not have flexible multi-currency account options – but specialist providers like Wise and Revolut can help. Hold dozens of different currencies, receive and send payments, and get a linked payment card to spend and withdraw around the world.
Wise has no ongoing fees for its multi-currency account, while Revolut lets you choose from several different account plans including some with monthly charges and the Standard plan which has no ongoing fees.
Learn more on Best foreign currency accounts in the US.
Can I live in Dubai permanently if I buy a property?
If you’re hoping to buy property in Dubai to get a residency, there are visa options available. However, buying real estate doesn’t automatically grant permanent residency or citizenship.
Dubai offers property-linked residency visas, including:
- 3-year investor visa: Available if you purchase property worth at least AED 750,000. If the property is mortgaged, at least 50% must be paid off. The visa is renewable and allows you to live in Dubai as long as you continue to meet the requirements.
- 10-year Golden Visa: Designed for investors buying property worth AED 2 million or more. This long-term visa is part of the UAE’s strategy to attract high-value investors, and it’s also renewable.
These visas allow you to reside in Dubai, but they do not lead to citizenship, and they must be renewed according to the specific terms.
Tips for foreigners to buy property in Dubai
Here are a few final tips if you’re a foreigner looking to buy property in Dubai:
- Foreigners can only buy in designated freehold areas like Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, and Palm Jumeirah
- You’ll need a valid passport, a signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), and at least a 10% deposit to secure a property
- If you’re buying off-plan, be sure to check the developer’s registration and NOC status with the Dubai Land Department
- Buying a property won’t automatically grant residency—look into the investor visa or Golden Visa options if you plan to stay long term
- When transferring money for your purchase, compare international services like Wise to cut down on fees and get better exchange rates
How to find a Dubai property
You’ll want to start your search for properties in Dubai using a mix of online platforms, licensed real estate agents,and local listings. Most major property sites allow you to filter by area, budget, size, and amenities—making it easier to narrow down options that suit your needs.
Consider more than just the listing price when evaluating properties. Location, developer reputation, building quality, and service charges can all impact the property’s long-term value. When you’re looking at properties, don’t just focus on the price tag. If you’re planning to rent it out, look at local rental yields and tenant demand in the area.
Should you rent or buy a house in Dubai?
The decision to rent or buy in Dubai really depends on your situation. If you’re planning to stay long-term or want to invest in the market, buying could make sense—especially if you’re eligible for a visa through property ownership. On the other hand, renting is often a better fit for short-term stays, those still exploring neighbourhoods, or buyers waiting for better market conditions.
Dubai property websites
Using an umbrella website is a great way to browse Dubai’s real estate market and get a sense of what’s out there. These platforms often list both off-plan and ready-to-move-in homes from top developers and agencies. Here are a few popular picks to get started:
Conclusion
Buying a new home in Dubai from the US is absolutely possible, and the process is relatively straightforward in the designated freehold areas where foreigners are allowed to own property.
While you won’t automatically get permanent residency just by owning a home, there are clear visa pathways available if your investment meets certain thresholds. With careful planning, the right legal advice, and a bit of research, buying property in Dubai can be a great long-term move.
Just remember—when you’re making a high-value purchase in another country and currency, the cost of sending your money matters. Before transferring funds from USD to AED, consider using providers like Wise for fast, low-cost international transfers with great exchange rates and transparent fees.
FAQs on buying Property in Dubai
Can US citizens buy property in Dubai?
Yes, US citizens can legally buy property in Dubai, including freehold properties in designated areas.
How much deposit do you need to buy a property in Dubai?
For expats, the minimum deposit is usually 20% for properties under AED 5 million. Non-residents typically need to put down at least 40%.
Is Dubai a good country to buy property?
Dubai is a popular choice for property investment thanks to high rental yields, no annual property taxes, and a strong expat demand—but like any market, it comes with risks and should be researched carefully.
