How British buyers purchase in Dubai remotely: the process, finance, currency and what to check on the UK side.
UK residents can buy freehold property in Dubai's designated areas remotely, using a power of attorney or digital signing. The UAE charges no annual property tax on ownership, and the main costs are around 4% DLD transfer fee plus commission on resale. UK tax treatment of overseas property is separate, so take UK tax advice.
Most UK buyers never visit before reserving. We send floor plans, payment schedules and the sale agreement digitally, and you can appoint someone under a power of attorney to sign at the Dubai Land Department if you cannot attend. Always check the developer's registration and that the sale will be registered with the DLD.
Prices are in UAE dirhams, which is pegged to the US dollar, so the pound-to-dirham cost moves with GBP/USD. Build a margin into your budget, and compare transfer providers. Typical buyer costs on resale are around 4% DLD transfer fee, a trustee fee, title deed fee and commission.
UAE banks can lend to non-resident buyers, generally at lower loan-to-value ratios than for UAE residents (often in the region of 50 to 60%), and lower again for off-plan. Many UK buyers use a mix of savings and a Dubai mortgage. A mortgage broker can compare lenders.
The UAE does not charge an annual property tax on ownership. Owning overseas property can still have UK tax implications, for example on rental income or on a later sale, depending on your circumstances. We are not tax advisers, so speak to a UK accountant before you buy.
Tell us your budget, goals and timeline. We shortlist off-plan and resale options and confirm current availability.
Pay a reservation deposit to secure the unit. Reservation terms differ by developer and by resale seller.
Sign the sale agreement: the SPA with the developer for off-plan (registered through Oqood), or the Form F for resale. If you cannot attend, a power of attorney lets someone sign for you.
Follow the payment plan, or complete the resale payment at transfer. Fees typically include around 4% DLD transfer fee plus commission on resale; we confirm exact costs upfront.
The sale is registered with the Dubai Land Department and, on completion, title is issued in your name.
Tell us your budget and where you are buying from, and we will explain the practical steps.
Yes. Non-UAE nationals, including UK citizens, can buy freehold property in Dubai's designated freehold areas.
Not necessarily. Many buyers complete remotely with digital documents and a power of attorney, although visiting helps you choose.
On a resale purchase, budget around 4% Dubai Land Department transfer fee, a trustee fee, about AED 580 for the title deed and typically 2% agency commission, so roughly 6 to 7% in total. Off-plan fee structures differ, and we confirm exact figures upfront.
General information, not legal, tax, financial or immigration advice. Prices, availability, payment plans and rules change; we confirm current terms before you commit.
