Can foreigners buy property in Dubai?

Yes — foreigners can buy freehold property in designated "freehold areas" of Dubai, with full ownership rights including resale and inheritance. There are no restrictions on nationality or residency, and you do not need to live in the UAE to purchase.

Popular freehold areas include: Dubai Marina, Downtown Dubai, Palm Jumeirah, JBR, Business Bay, Jumeirah Lakes Towers, Dubai Hills Estate, Arabian Ranches, JVT/JVC, and Mohammed bin Rashid City.

• The process is fast and digital:
• No property tax (one of the world's only major markets with zero recurring property tax)
• No income tax on rental yields
• 4% DLD (Dubai Land Department) registration fee on purchase — usually split 50/50 with seller, sometimes paid in full by buyer
• Title deed issued within 30 days
• Mortgage available for non-residents up to 50–60% LTV

Property purchase of AED 2M+ (~USD 545k) automatically qualifies you for a 2-year investor residence visa, or AED 750k+ for a property-linked 3-year visa.