Here’s a breakdown of the typical purchase process for a non-resident buyer:
Step 1: Define Your Investment Goal
Are you looking for capital appreciation, rental yield, a vacation home, or a future relocation plan? Your goal will guide your decision on:
- Property type (apartment, villa, townhouse)
- Location
- Off-plan vs ready
- Developer reputation
- Expected ROI
At Zenara Real Estate, we help clients define clear investment goals and shortlist properties accordingly.
Step 2: Select the Property
Once you’ve set your investment goals, your broker will help you explore available options.
For off-plan properties, your broker will arrange virtual presentations, brochures, floor plans, and payment schedules from top developers like:
- Emaar
- Sobha
- Nakheel
- DAMAC
- Danube
- Azizi
For ready properties, you can browse available units via video walkthroughs, photos, and location reports.
Step 3: Reservation and Initial Payment
Once you select the property:
- You’ll sign a reservation form with the developer.
- You’ll pay a booking deposit, usually 5% to 20% of the property price.
- You’ll submit passport copy and proof of address.
- You’ll not need visa or UAE residency for this.
This secures the unit in your name.
Step 4: Sign Sale and Purchase Agreement (SPA)
The SPA is a legal agreement that outlines:
- Property details
- Payment plan
- Delivery timelines
- Terms of cancellation and penalties
At this point, your broker ensures that you understand all contract terms clearly and get full transparency.
Step 5: Make Payments as per the Plan
Most off-plan projects have milestone-based payment plans, such as:
- 10% on booking
- 10% in 6 months
- 10% at 20% construction
- 20% at 80% construction
- 50% on handover
Some developers offer post-handover payment plans, spreading payments over 2-5 years even after delivery.
Step 6: Final Payment & Title Deed Registration
Upon final payment or handover:
- The property is registered in your name with the Dubai Land Department (DLD).
- You receive an official Title Deed, either digitally or physically.
- You become the legal owner.
Dubai. UAE
Can Foreigners Get a Mortgage in Dubai?
Yes, non-residents can obtain mortgages in Dubai — though with slightly stricter requirements compared to residents.
Typical Mortgage Terms for Foreign Buyers
- Loan-to-Value (LTV): 50% – 65%
- Interest Rates: 4.5% – 6% (variable and fixed options)
- Term: Up to 25 years
- Required Documents:
- Passport
- Proof of income (salary slips, tax returns)
- Bank statements
- Credit report (if available)
Zenara Real Estate works with mortgage specialists and banks that cater to international clients and can help you assess eligibility before you commit to a property.
Property Management and Rental Income for Non-Residents
Owning property is just the beginning. If you plan to rent it out, especially as a short-term (Airbnb-style) or long-term rental, you’ll need a property manager.
At Zenara, we offer partnerships with licensed property management firms who will:
- Find tenants
- Collect rent
- Handle maintenance
- Ensure compliance with Dubai regulations
Rental yields in Dubai can range from 6% to 10% annually, especially in popular investment zones. A licensed property management firm will charge you 5% of the annual rent.
