Market Overview
A Market Built on Momentum
Dubai's population sits at roughly 3.7 million, and it's growing fast. The city added over 100,000 residents in 2024 alone, driven by relocations from Europe, India, and the CIS. That growth feeds directly into property demand. Transaction volumes hit record levels post-Expo 2020, and the market hasn't slowed down.
The Dubai Land Department recorded over 160,000 property transactions in 2024, worth north of AED 500 billion combined. Off-plan sales now account for roughly 60% of all deals. Developers like Emaar, DAMAC, and Sobha are launching at pace, but absorption rates remain healthy. Units sell out within weeks of launch in prime areas.
Dubai isn't just an expat playground anymore. It's a global capital allocation destination. And with freehold ownership for foreigners in designated zones, the barriers to entry are lower than London, New York, or Singapore.
Key Areas
Where to Buy: Prices, Yields, and What to Expect
| Area | Avg. Price | Yield | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dubai Marina | AED 1,400-1,800/sqft | 7-8% | Popular with expats. Walk-to-beach lifestyle, high rental demand year-round. |
| Downtown Dubai | AED 2,000-2,800/sqft | 5-6% | Burj Khalifa views. Premium addresses, strong capital appreciation. |
| Palm Jumeirah | AED 2,500-4,000/sqft | 4-5% | Waterfront villas and penthouses. Trophy asset territory. |
| Emirates Hills | AED 1,200-2,000/sqft | 3-4% | Ultra-premium gated community. Large plots, low density. |
| JVC / JVT | AED 800-1,100/sqft | 8-9% | Affordable entry point. Highest yields in the city. |
| Business Bay | AED 1,500-2,200/sqft | 6-7% | Central location next to Downtown. Mix of offices and residences. |
Prices reflect Q4 2024-Q1 2025 averages. Yields are net estimates after service charges.
Investment Case
Why Investors Keep Choosing Dubai
Tax Advantages
0% income tax. 0% capital gains tax. No annual property tax. The only transaction cost is the DLD transfer fee at 4% of the purchase price, split equally between buyer and seller by default (though negotiable).
Golden Visa
Buy a property worth AED 2 million or more and you're eligible for a 10-year Golden Visa. That covers you, your spouse, and your children. It's one of the most straightforward residency-by-investment programs globally.
Regulation
RERA (Real Estate Regulatory Authority) governs all transactions. Developers must place buyer funds into escrow accounts. Off-plan projects need DLD approval before launch. It's not the Wild West. There are real protections in place.
Yield Advantage
Net rental yields of 7-9% in areas like Marina and JVC. Compare that to 2-3% in London's prime postcodes or 3-4% in Manhattan. The math works here, especially when you factor in the zero-tax environment.
Buyer Requirements
What Foreign Buyers Need
Foreigners can purchase freehold property in designated zones, and that covers most of the city's prime areas. You don't need a visa or residency to buy. A passport is sufficient.
The process is fast. Most transactions close in 2-4 weeks for ready properties. Off-plan purchases are even simpler: you sign a Sales Purchase Agreement (SPA) with the developer and register with DLD.
- |Valid passport (no visa required to purchase)
- |Signed Sale & Purchase Agreement (SPA)
- |No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the developer
- |DLD registration: 4% transfer fee
- |Mortgage available for non-residents up to 75% LTV (50% for off-plan)
- |Oqood registration for off-plan, Title Deed for ready
Ready to get started?
Get in touch for a free consultation about your next property investment.
Get in Touch