Business Bay

Yes. Since 2002, non-UAE nationals can buy 100% freehold property in designated zones across Dubai, with full ownership rights, no nationality restrictions, and no requirement to be physically present in the UAE for the purchase.

Yes, when bought from a RERA-licensed developer through proper channels. All off-plan funds in Dubai must be held in escrow accounts supervised by the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA); developers can only draw against verified construction milestones. Combined with the major developers' track records since 2002, this makes Dubai one of the most regulated off-plan markets globally.

Freehold means perpetual, inheritable, transferable ownership of both the unit and a share of the land, the standard for premium Dubai property and the only structure available to foreign buyers. Leasehold means a long-term lease (typically 30–99 years) of an asset whose underlying ownership remains with the original developer or the government. Foreigners can only buy freehold in designated zones.

In Dubai, there is no annual property tax, no capital gains tax, no inheritance tax, and no personal income tax on rental yield. The only direct property-related taxes are a one-time 4% Dubai Land Department transfer fee at purchase and a 5% VAT on commercial property (residential is VAT-exempt). However, residents of other countries remain liable for their home tax regime on Dubai-derived income.

Without a registered will, Dubai courts default to UAE Sharia succession rules even for non-Muslim foreigners, which rarely matches a Western estate plan. A DIFC Wills Service Centre will (AED 10,000–15,000) lets you elect your home-country distribution and name guardians for minors, with the Dubai courts enforcing it directly.