Question 1

Is there really 0% tax on rental income in Dubai?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The UAE currently levies no personal income tax, no capital gains tax, and no withholding tax on rental income for individual investors. This is enshrined in UAE Federal Tax Law. Rental income, sale profits, and dividends from property are all fully retained by the investor.

Question 2

Can foreigners buy property in Dubai?

Accepted Answer

Yes — foreigners can own freehold property in designated freehold zones, which cover most of Dubai's prime investment areas including Downtown, Marina, Business Bay, JVC, Palm Jumeirah, and Dubai Hills Estate. You do not need to be a resident or have a UAE visa to purchase.

Question 3

What's the minimum investment for a Golden Visa?

Accepted Answer

A minimum property investment of AED 2,000,000 qualifies you for a 10-year UAE Golden Visa, granting full residency rights for you and your immediate family. The property must be purchased in your name (not through a mortgage exceeding the threshold) and registered with DLD.

Question 4

Off-plan vs ready property — which has better ROI?

Accepted Answer

Both have different risk/return profiles. Off-plan typically offers a 10–15% developer discount vs. ready market pricing, meaning instant paper equity at launch. However, rental income only begins after handover (24–48 months typically). Ready properties generate rental income from day one but are priced at full market value. Use the calculator above to compare both scenarios with your specific numbers.

Question 5

What are the true purchase costs in Dubai?

Accepted Answer

The main costs are: DLD (Dubai Land Department) transfer fee of 4%, real estate agent commission of 2%, and a title deed registration fee of approximately AED 4,000. Total acquisition costs typically land at 6–7% of purchase price. There is no stamp duty, inheritance tax, or annual property tax.

Question 6

How does the calculator model property appreciation?

Accepted Answer

The calculator applies a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) to the purchase price over your chosen holding period. The Conservative scenario uses 4%/yr, Balanced uses 6%/yr, and Growth uses 9%/yr — broadly aligned with Dubai prime market historical averages. You can override this with your own assumption in the Market Assumptions section.

Question 7

Is mortgage financing available for non-residents?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Several UAE banks — including Emirates NBD, ENBD, Mashreq, and ADCB — offer mortgages to non-resident foreign nationals. Typical terms: 50–75% LTV (loan-to-value), 4–5% interest rate, up to 25-year term. You will need 6 months of bank statements, proof of income, and a valid passport. Our advisors can assist with pre-qualification.

Question 8

How liquid is Dubai real estate — how fast can I sell?

Accepted Answer

Dubai has one of the most active real estate transaction volumes in the world — over AED 400B in transactions in 2025. A well-priced property in a prime area typically receives offers within 2–6 weeks. The DLD transfer process takes 1–3 business days once buyer and seller agree. Off-plan properties can often be resold before handover via a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the developer.

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