Your Dubai Questions: Real Estate & Relocation Answered (FAQs)

Residential:

• Apartments (there are no condo associations in Dubai, so no condos)
• Villas (Single Family, Detached, Standalone)
• Townhouses (a cluster of 4, 6, 8 townhouses connected to each other.
• Semi-Detached are 2 homes connected to each other on one plot. Also called a Twin Villa. Think of them as a corner townhome.

Commercial:

• Offices
• Retail Spaces (Shops, Showrooms)
• Commercial Floors/Buildings

Other/Specialized:

• Hotel Apartments / Serviced Apartments
• Land Plots (Residential or Commercial)
• Mixed-Use Properties

Basically, if you're buying an off-plan property, you're buying it before it's actually built, or while it's still under construction. Also known as new construction, new build, new development. They are mostly direct from developer properties. There is no commission. Unless you buy an off-plan property from another investor, which will require the 2% commission and other costs.

Yes, foreigners can buy property in Dubai — as long as you're 21 or older.

You can fully own property in designated freehold areas. This means full ownership, not leasehold. Popular freehold locations are: Dubai Hills Estate, Palm Jebel Ali, Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, Jumeirah Bay Island, The Oasis, Eden Hills, Eden House Dubai Hills, Palm Jumeirah, Grand Polo Club & Resort, Nad Al Sheba Gardens, Athlon, and the list is endless.

Dubai actively encourages foreign investment with:
• 100% ownership
• No capital gains or rental income tax
• A 10-year Golden Visa for properties over $545,000

It’s a secure, tax-free market designed for global buyers.

This is not going to be easy to answer. All areas in Dubai are great. It all started with Emirates Living, Dubai Marina, Downtown Dubai and Palm Jumeirah. These are the original hotspots of Dubai, but are very saturated and over crowded.

The new locations to look out for are the following:

Palm Jebel Ali, Eden Hills, Dubai Hills Estate, The Oasis by Emaar, Expo City, The Heights Country Club & Wellness, Nad Al Sheba Gardens, The Valley, Villas in Meydan. I cannot stop, the list is endless. Connect with me to know the most promising communities of the future.

• AED 2 million (USD 545 000) for a 10-year Golden Visa
• AED 750 000 (USD 204 000) for a 2-year residence visa

Average Dubai yield: ~5.3%
Top pockets deliver 6–7.3% annually.

Anyone who invested prior to 2022 might be able to get upto 10% to 12% rental ROI. For anyone who will invest in 2025 and beyond, should be able to get between 4% to 5% for townhouses, 5% to 7% for apartments, and 3% to 4% for villas. Prices are high now.

Yes. Developers offer flexible interest-free payment plans, early-bird discounts, lower entry prices, and strong capital gains on handover.

If you invest in the right community, and right unit type, you can make a high capital gain, all tax-free.

However, the reality in 2025 is that a ready property in majority of the areas is going to be priced better and lower than a new off-plan launch, especially by Emaar. Owners who bought in 2022 and 2023 are willing to accept a reasonable profit compared to the very high priced units offered by Emaar.

• No capital gains, no rental tax
• No annual property tax
• Dubai Land Department transfer fee ≈4% of purchase price
• Agent fee ≈2%
• Mortgage Expenses ≈1.25% of the total value
• Service charges vary by development (paid quarterly)

Yes, for secondary or a ready property, you would need to provide a power of attorney to your family/friend or a licensed real estate agent in Dubai, like me. It can be done with a zoom video call via the Dubai Courts Notary Public department. Everything will be digital. With this they represent you at developer offices and the Trustee offices.

• Reserve online with the developer.

The second and easiest option is if you buy a new-construction, or off-plan direct from developer property. You simply have to pay a deposit by credit card. Sign the reservation form. After that, you have to wire transfer the 10% or 20% downpayment directly to the Escrow bank account. Plus 4% to the Dubai Land Department (DLD) bank account. Developers provide clear banking instructions. And sign the Sales & Purchase Agreement (SPA) that will be sent to you via courier. You would sign and send back to the developer. After which, you would receive a pre-title deed registration (Oqood) via email.

You never need to step onto UAE soil unless you want to view the finished asset in person, or you need to get a mortgage in the UAE.

If you invest through me, I will provide a professional snagging service at handover of your property.

Are you ready to assign your Power of Attorney and start your remote purchase?

Freehold

• You own the property outright.
• You hold the title deed in your name forever.
• You can sell, lease or renovate without approvals.
• Available in areas like Dubai Marina, Downtown Dubai, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Hills, Expo City, Business Bay, Dubai Harbour etc. Sheikh Zayed Road and Jumeirah Garden City are now also included as Freehold.

Leasehold

• You rent the land for a fixed term (up to 99 years).
• You own the building but not the land.
• You must follow landlord or developer rules.
• Common in areas like Dubai Investment Park and some industrial zones.

Key differences

• Ownership length – perpetual vs fixed term.
• Control – full autonomy vs landlord approvals.
• Transfer – seamless resale vs may need landlord consent.
• Financing – lenders favour freehold for mortgages.

• Average property price in Dubai sits at AED 2,200 per sq ft (≈ USD 600).
  London averages AED 3,447 (≈ USD 940), New York AED 1,862 (≈ USD 508), Hong Kong AED 8,046 (≈ USD 2,200).
• Rental yields in Dubai reach 5–7% annually.
  London and New York deliver just 2–3%.
• Dubai ranks among the world’s safest cities.
  Low crime and strict enforcement protect your investment.
• Entrepreneurs are leaving the UK’s high taxes and moving to Dubai for opportunity and lifestyle.
• Zero personal income tax and no annual property tax.
  No capital gains, no rental income tax.
• Liquidity stays high:
  • Q3 2024 residential sales hit AED 120 billion
  • Average time on market is just 34 days
• Freehold ownership in prime districts gives you full control.
  Other global cities often limit foreign buyers or impose leasehold terms or crazy taxes.

Dubai combines affordability, strong yields, rapid growth, safety, and modern infrastructure.

• Dubai offers higher rental yields (5–7%) and faster price growth.
  You tap into a larger investor pool and more freehold communities.
• Abu Dhabi delivers greater price stability and lower entry prices.
  You benefit from long-term government support and mega projects.
• Dubai’s market moves quick.
  You get liquidity and shorter time on market.
• Abu Dhabi feels more conservative.
  You face less volatility and steady demand.
• Dubai suits you if you chase strong yields, capital gains, and global appeal.
• Abu Dhabi suits you if you want stability, lower costs, and government-backed growth. And with the Disney Abu Dhabi announcement, Abu Dhabi will have a very strong advantage.

• Invest at least AED 2 million in one or multiple Dubai properties (mortgage allowed).
• Off-plan or new-build assets must be at least 50 percent complete.

• Spend a minimum of 10 working days in Dubai during your application.

• Prepare these documents:
– Passport copy
– Oqood or title deed with a valuation of AED 2 million or more
– Bank statement or mortgage approval
– Emirates ID application form

• Hire a consultant (around AED 5 000) to guide you.

• Submit online via the ICP portal or Dubai Land Department.
• Pay government fees (approximately AED 10 500).
• Complete a medical fitness test and secure health insurance.

• No visa stamping required.
• Your 10-year Golden Visa is tied to your property—you must cancel it before selling.

• Immediately sponsor your spouse, children, parents, and up to three domestic helpers.

• Things have changed in Dubai. After the 2008 recession, Dubai has introduced strict laws to protect investors money.
• You see real demand: Q1 2025 sales hit AED 143 billion.
• Prices forecast to climb about 8 percent this year.
• Properties sell fast—average market time is 34 days.
• Dubai’s economy isn’t tied to oil.
  You tap into innovation, tourism, finance, and tech sectors.
• Millionaires and entrepreneurs relocate here for tax freedom and business ease.
• The city welcomes families with top schools, parks, and healthcare.
• Global buyers drive steady demand.
  You get less boom-and-bust volatility.
• Golden Visa and clear regulations give you confidence.

Dubai in 2025 blends growth, innovation, and high demand—making your investment both dynamic and stable.

• You invest through RERA-approved developers.
• Developers must buy the land in cash before launching and open an escrow account.
• They deposit 10–20% of the project cost into that escrow up front.
• Your deposit goes into the same escrow account.
• Funds release only when agreed construction milestones complete.
• Dubai Land Department registers your title deed in your name.
• Off-plan buyers receive an Oqood contract showing your payment schedule and protections.
• You sign a clear Sales & Purchase Agreement outlining penalties for breaches.
• No hidden taxes or fees—every cost is transparent.
• Government-backed dispute-resolution centers handle any issues.
• Freehold zones guarantee perpetual ownership—you hold full title and control.

You tap into one of the world’s most regulated, transparent property markets. Your money stays secure.

For families with two school-going children, the minimum monthly expenses are around AED 35,000.
But to live comfortably — with your kids attending "Very Good" rated schools — a budget of AED 50,000 per month is more realistic.

For a single person, the minimum monthly expense is about AED 15,000, which allows you to live in your own studio apartment.
For a more comfortable lifestyle, AED 20,000 per month is ideal.

It all depends. If you are looking for established areas. Emirates Living, Arabian Ranches, Jumeirah Park. Dubai Hills Estate has Maple townhomes and Sidra villas, but again they are now very high priced.

Townhouse communities such as Tilal Al Ghaf, Townsquare, Cherrywoods, Arabian Ranches 3, Villanova are great. For apartments, Dubai Hills is your best bet. Dubai Hills Estate is the best community as it is in the centre of Dubai. Very close to schools.

To obtain a UAE residence visa you first secure an entry permit either through a company you will work for, or open a company and apply through that, or invest in a property in Dubai and apply for an investor visa. Most of the process can be handled by typists such as Amer and OnTime.

You would need to undergo a medical fitness test, apply for your Emirates ID, get your residency, and finally collect your Emirates ID card. The entire process typically takes 1 week, depending on your sponsor and how promptly you submit documents.

1. Visa Types & Eligibility

• Employment Visa: Sponsored by a UAE employer; required for those taking up a job in Dubai
• Investor/Partner Visa: For shareholders in a UAE company or property investors meeting minimum investment criteria
• Family Sponsorship Visa: Enables residents to sponsor spouse, children, and parents (salary threshold AED 4,000–10,000/month)
• Freelance or Golden Visas: Self-sponsored via select free zones or by investment criteria, offering longer validity

2. Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Entry Permit (ICA/GDRFA)
2. • Sponsor (employer or family) applies online via ICA or GDRFA portals to get your entry approval.
   • You receive an electronic “pink visa” via email allowing you to enter the UAE.
   • Another option is if you are already in Dubai via the Visa on arrival for some countries, you can start the process, however there is an extra fees of a service called in-and-out costing around AED 1200. Fees can vary.
2. Medical Fitness Test
3. • Undergo blood tests and a chest X-ray at an approved health center (cost ~AED 300–800). There is a standard service and VIP.
   • Results are sent directly to immigration.
3. Emirates ID Application
4. • Apply at an ICP/ICA service center or accredited typing center; provide fingerprints and photo
   • Fee: AED 100–200 per year of visa validity
4. Visa Stamping is no more required
5. • Sponsor submits visa application to get residence visa.
   • Stamping fee: AED 500–2,000 depending on visa type/duration. And if the in-and-out service will be availed.
5. Collect Emirates ID
6. • Once printed, collect your card from the designated service center (valid 2–3 years), depending where you are working. For freezones it can be 3 years. For mainland companies it can be 2 years.

3. Documents Required

• Passport copy (6+ months validity) with empty pages
• Passport-size photo (white background). Make sure you take the picture in a UAE photo studio, and tell them you need for new Residence Visa and Emirates ID.
• Employment contract or business license for sponsor cases
• Salary certificate (for government/semi-gov’t staff and free-zone employees)
• Tenancy contract (Ejari) if sponsoring family. You cannot apply for a family visa unless you have a tenancy or lease agreement on your name.
• Attested marriage/birth certificates for family members from the UAE embassy in your home country.
• Health insurance proof (mandatory for visa issuance), but usually paid by the employer. If you are self-employed you would need to pay for it yourself.

4. Tips & Common Pitfalls

• Submit complete documents: Missing certificates or unsigned forms can delay your visa by weeks.
• Track expirations: Note your entry permit and Emirates ID expiry to avoid fines (AED 25/day)
• Use accredited typing centers: They help ensure correct document formatting and reduce rejection risks. Amer, OnTime
• Plan ahead for family visas: Sponsor salary of at least AED 4000 and housing proof are strictly enforced; prepare these early.

Healthcare in Dubai is not free for most residents. Expatriates are required to have private health insurance, which is mandatory for obtaining a residence visa. The more you pay for insurance, the more hospitals are covered. The lowest insurance costs will provide you average and limited hospitals.

Key Points:

• Mandatory Health Insurance: All residents must have health insurance. Employers are legally required to provide basic health coverage for their employees. Dependents and domestic workers must be insured separately, either by the employer or the resident sponsor.
• Cost of Health Insurance: The average annual cost of health insurance for an individual in Dubai is approximately AED 6,000, while family coverage can start from AED 15,000 per year.
• Medical Service Costs: Consultation fees at private hospitals can range from AED 200 to AED 800. Aster Hospital and NMC Hospital are great and affordable options. Emergency services can cost between AED 500 and AED 2,000, depending on the severity of the case and required treatment.
• Quality of Care: Dubai offers high-quality healthcare services, with both public and private facilities equipped with modern medical technology and staffed by qualified professionals. American Hospital, Mediclinic, Kings College Hospital and Medcare are the best. For budget options, Aster Hospital and NMC Hospital are great options.

Conclusion:

While healthcare in Dubai is not free for expatriate residents, mandatory health insurance ensures access to quality medical services. It's essential for residents to secure appropriate health coverage to avoid high out-of-pocket expenses. And pregnancy delivery will be covered after 9 months of insurance.

Yes, you can move to Dubai without a job by applying for a self-sponsored residence visa. You can come either on a paid 90 day visit visa. Or on a 30 day free on arrival visa for some nationalities. Stay in a furnished apartment. And decide which option to go for. Options include:

• Green Visa: For freelancers and skilled professionals; valid for 5 years.
• Golden Visa: 10-year residency for investors, entrepreneurs, and highly skilled individuals.
• Virtual Work Visa: 1-year visa for remote workers earning at least $3,500/month.
• Property Investor Visa: 2- or 10-year visa for real estate investments starting from AED 750,000.

Each visa has specific eligibility criteria and application processes. My personal opinion is to invest in your own property and apply on behalf of that. Otherwise opening a company trade license is the second best option.

Again not easy to answer. But visit the KHDA website: https://web.khda.gov.ae/en/ and find "Outstanding" and "Very Good" rated schools and the curriculum you prefer. Here are some:

Dubai American Academy
Hartland International School
Bloom World Academy
Dubai College
Jumeirah College
Kings School
Wellington International School
North Collegiate
Dubai British School

Dubai is one of the safest cities globally for families and solo expats. It boasts a low crime rate, strict law enforcement, and a family-friendly environment.

For single women and single mothers, Dubai offers a secure and welcoming atmosphere. The city has been ranked as the safest destination for female solo travelers in 2025, with high scores for personal safety and freedom of movement.

Families benefit from well-maintained neighborhoods, excellent schools, and numerous recreational facilities, making Dubai an ideal place to live and raise children.

Yes, you can bring your pet to Dubai. To do so, you'll need to obtain an import permit from the UAE's Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE). Your pet must be microchipped and up-to-date on vaccinations, including rabies. A rabies titer test is required if you're coming from a high-risk country. Additionally, you'll need a recent health certificate and proof of parasite treatments. Pets must enter as manifest cargo. Quarantine isn't required if all conditions are met. Certain dog breeds are prohibited.

Families in Dubai are usually afraid of Dogs, so be prepared for some screaming and eye rolling. Keep the dog leashed at all times. If anyone complains, they can take away the dog from you.

Emaar communities are the most pet-friendly in Dubai.

To open a bank account in Dubai as a new resident, follow these steps:

1. Choose a Bank and Account Type:
Select a bank that suits your needs. Popular options include Emirates NBD, ADCB, HSBC, and FAB. Decide on the type of account—current, savings, or salary account. Always select a current or salary account as you will get a cheque book with it. For a savings account, I highly recommend a digital bank WIO or LIV.

2. Prepare Required Documents:
Gather the following documents:

• Original passport with valid UAE residence visa
• Emirates ID (or application receipt if pending)
• Proof of UAE address (e.g., tenancy contract or utility bill)
• Salary certificate or employment letter (if applicable)

3. Submit Application:
Visit a bank branch or apply online through the bank's official website or mobile app. Some banks offer digital account opening services. Always apply at the branch closest to you.

4. Account Activation:
Once your application is approved, your account will be activated. You'll receive your debit card and can start using your account.

Note:
Some banks may require a minimum salary or balance to open certain types of accounts. It's advisable to check specific requirements with your chosen bank.

No, you do not need to pay personal income tax if you live in Dubai. The UAE does not impose taxes on salaries, wages, or personal investment income. There is no capital gains tax, and no rental income tax, and no annual property tax.

However, there are other taxes to be aware of:

• Corporate Tax: A 9% tax applies to business profits exceeding AED 375,000 annually.
• Value Added Tax (VAT): A 5% VAT is levied on most goods and services.
• Excise Tax: Applied to specific goods, such as tobacco and sugary drinks, to discourage consumption.
• Real Estate Transfer Fees: Typically 4%-5% when buying or selling property.

Overall, Dubai offers a tax-friendly environment, especially for salaried individuals and families. Keep more of what you earn, and that is why everyone from all over the world are moving to Dubai.

I am not in HR, and not a consultant. If you are in Construction, a lawyer, investment banker, family offices, just come to Dubai. Its perfect for you.

Finding a job in Dubai as a new expat can be challenging, depending heavily on your skills, experience, and the sector you're targeting. The market is dynamic but also competitive.

Here's a snapshot based on current realities:

• Strong Demand in Key Sectors (as of early-mid 2025): Dubai's job market shows robust growth, particularly in areas like:
• • Technology (AI, data science, cybersecurity, software development)
  • Real Estate & Construction (especially for specialized roles and consultants). Every other person in Dubai is a real estate agent, so its very competitive. But if you are good in sales, its the perfect role for you. 
  • Healthcare
  • Sales, E-commerce, and Digital Marketing
  • Finance & Fintech
  • Sustainability & Renewable Energy
  • Tourism & Hospitality (though can be competitive)
• Growing Economy: Dubai's GDP is projected to grow, and the non-oil economy is seeing increased hiring to meet growing workloads. The population is also expanding, fueling demand for various services.
• Competitive Landscape: While there's demand, you'll be competing with a global talent pool. LinkedIn data from early 2025 indicated that while many professionals are seeking new roles, a significant percentage also find the job search challenging. Employers report difficulty finding qualified talent, meaning a strong skills match is crucial.
• In-Demand Skills: Beyond specific industry knowledge, skills like project management, AI and data literacy, digital marketing, and strong communication are highly valued. Adaptability is also key, with a notable surge in hybrid job postings.
• Challenges:
• • Competition: As mentioned, many expats are attracted to Dubai.
  • ATS Systems: CVs often need to be optimized to pass through Applicant Tracking Systems before a human sees them. Always hire a CV maker who is experienced in Dubai jobs.
  • Networking: A significant number of job placements occur through referrals and networking.

In short: The overall unemployment rate in the UAE has been relatively low (around 2.95% in 2023, with projections for 2.61% by end of 2025), but this covers the entire population, including nationals.

Yes, Dubai is made for you! The luxury life, amazing restaurants, world-class shopping – you will absolutely have the time of your life here. And the great news is, you totally can live here just by owning property without needing a job.

Basically, if you invest in property above a certain amount, you can get a residency visa. Think options like the Golden Visa for a larger investment giving you a long-term stay, a 2-year investor visa for a bit less, or even a Retirement Visa if you're 55+. So yeah, buy your dream place, get your visa, and enjoy everything Dubai has to offer!

Here's the friendly lowdown:

• Super International Vibe: First off, it's incredibly cosmopolitan. You've got people from literally everywhere – like over 200 nationalities! So, English is spoken everywhere, and you'll find all sorts of food, music, and experiences. It's easy to find your own crowd.
• Respect is Key: While it's modern, it's still an Islamic country. This means being respectful of local customs is a big deal. Things like dressing modestly in public places, especially in malls or older parts of town, not being overly affectionate in public, and being mindful during religious times like Ramadan are important. It's not super strict for everyday life, but that respect goes a long way. Go straight home, and not to the beach after the amazing unlimited alcohol brunches in Dubai.
• Modern & Ambitious: Dubai is all about the "new" and the "next big thing." The culture is very forward-looking, with a huge focus on innovation, luxury, amazing service, and just generally being impressive. Think incredible buildings, top-notch restaurants, and a can-do attitude.
• Safe & Orderly: One of the best things is how safe it feels. Seriously, it's one of the safest cities in the world, and it's incredibly clean. People are generally polite and law-abiding.
• Social Scene: There's always something to do – amazing restaurants (you know I love those!), cafes, brunches, shopping (obviously!), beaches, and cool events. The social life can be whatever you want it to be, from chill to super glam. But if you dont have friends or family. Connect with work colleagues, or other parents. Work remotely or get a gym membership in DIFC, I find DIFC the best to connect.

So yeah, it's a unique mix: very international and modern on the surface, with a respectful nod to its traditional roots. As long as you're mindful and respectful of the local ways, you'll find it a really easy and exciting place to be!

Uber and Careem are not really expensive. Taxis are slightly cheaper, but I would always prefer Uber and Careem. Metro is great if you are living walking distance to the Metro station, and travelling during non rush hours. Because when its rush hours, you will not find it confortable to ride, no place to sit, sometimes no place to stand as well. Download the Careem app for taxis. You can also rent a car in Dubai on a monthly basis, but the fines are so crazy that driving here might make you cry. So it's better to catch an uber or a taxi.