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Middle East

United Arab Emirates

Dubai and Abu Dhabi: freehold ownership zones, off-plan payment plans and a long-term residence framework for property investors.

Overview

The UAE — led by Dubai — is one of the world's most active international property markets, combining freehold ownership for foreign buyers in designated areas, a deep off-plan market and globally connected infrastructure.

Property market

Dubai's market spans ready and off-plan apartments, villas and townhouses across communities such as Dubai Marina, Downtown Dubai, Palm Jumeirah, Business Bay and Dubai Hills Estate. Developers commonly offer staged payment plans linked to construction progress or post-handover instalments.

Foreign ownership

Foreign nationals can buy freehold property in designated freehold areas of Dubai and investment zones in other emirates.

Properties in United Arab Emirates

New listings coming soon. Contact us for off-market opportunities.

Investment opportunities

Investor information

Rental income is regulated by RERA; index-linked rent caps apply to renewals. Short-term holiday-home lettings require a permit from the Department of Economy and Tourism.

No published opportunities in United Arab Emirates right now.

Residency & citizenship

Residency options

The UAE offers a long-term (Golden) residence visa to qualifying property investors. Thresholds and conditions are set by the federal and emirate authorities — see the program page for the latest reviewed summary.

Citizenship options

United Arab Emirates does not operate a citizenship-by-investment program that we list. Property ownership does not confer citizenship.

Program rules, eligibility, investment thresholds and immigration requirements may change. Information is for general guidance and does not constitute legal, immigration, tax or investment advice.

Taxes & costs

There is currently no annual property tax or personal income tax on rental income for individuals in Dubai. Buyers typically pay a Dubai Land Department (DLD) transfer fee (commonly cited at 4%), registration and agency fees. Service charges apply in most communities. Confirm current fees with DLD.

Buying process

  1. Consultation — define objectives, budget and timeline with a Bee Haven advisor.
  2. Shortlisting — review verified listings, developer track records and comparable prices.
  3. Due diligence — independent legal review of title, permits and contracts.
  4. Reservation & agreement — reservation deposit and sale & purchase agreement.
  5. Payment & registration — funds transfer through regulated channels and title registration.
  6. After-sale — property management, leasing and resale support.

Off-plan purchases are registered in Dubai's Oqood system; ready properties are transferred at the DLD trustee office.

Sources reviewed 15 Sept 2026: u.ae, dubailand.gov.ae, icp.gov.ae. Always confirm current rules with qualified local advisors.

Frequently asked questions

Investing in United Arab Emirates? Our advisors can walk you through the process.

Book a consultation
What fees apply when buying in Dubai?

Buyers typically pay a Dubai Land Department transfer fee, registration fees and agency fees. Confirm the current schedule with DLD.

Do property purchases qualify for a UAE Golden Visa?

Qualifying property investments may support a long-term residence application. See our reviewed program summary and confirm eligibility with the authorities.