Home Buyer Guide
Your Complete Guide to Buying Property in the UAE
Purchasing property in the United Arab Emirates is one of the most significant financial decisions you will make. This guide covers everything you need to know before buying, and how RateAgent helps you find the right agent for your journey.
Understanding the UAE Property Market
Freehold vs Leasehold
The UAE offers two main ownership types.
Freehold Ownership
Grants full ownership rights in designated areas and is available to all nationalities in specific zones.
Leasehold Ownership
Provides long-term lease rights, typically 99 years, and is available in areas outside freehold zones.
Key Emirates for Property Investment
What to Consider Before Buying
Legal Requirements
• Valid passport and UAE visa (for residents) or tourist visa (for non-residents)
• No criminal record certificate may be required
• Understanding of transfer fees and registration costs
• Awareness of service charges and maintenance fees
Financial Considerations
• Budget: Include transfer fees (typically 4% in Dubai), agent fees, and registration costs
• Mortgage: Non-residents can obtain mortgages but typically require 25-50% deposit
• Service Charges: Annual fees for building maintenance vary significantly
• Rental Potential: Research market rates if buying for investment
Location Factors
• Proximity to work, schools, and essential amenities
• Public transport accessibility
• Community facilities and lifestyle offerings
• Future development plans in the area
• Historical price appreciation trends
Property Type Considerations
Off-Plan Properties
Lower initial prices and payment plans but carry completion risk.
Ready Properties
Immediate availability with known quality but higher upfront costs.
Resale Properties
Established communities with potential for negotiation.
Red Flags to Watch For
Agent Warning Signs
• Pressure to make quick decisions without adequate time for due diligence
• Reluctance to provide RERA licence or registration details
• Unwillingness to arrange property inspections
• Vague answers about service charges or community fees
• Pushing properties that do not match your stated requirements
Property Warning Signs
• Prices significantly below market rate without clear explanation
• Developers without track record of completed projects
• Missing or incomplete documentation
• Restrictive contract terms or unusual payment structures
• Properties with unresolved disputes or liens
The Buying Process
Define your requirements, budget, and preferred locations.
Find a qualified agent using RateAgent to compare performance.
View properties and conduct thorough due diligence.
Make an offer and negotiate terms.
Sign the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and pay deposit.
Complete the transfer at the relevant land department.
Register the property and receive title deed.
How RateAgent Helps
Find Verified Agents
Every agent on RateAgent is verified against Dubai Land Department records. You can see their RERA licence status, agency affiliation, and years of active registration.
Compare Performance
Our platform aggregates transaction data from DLD, giving you objective performance metrics. Compare agents based on transaction volume, experience, and client reviews.
Read Authentic Reviews
Reviews on RateAgent come from verified clients. Read about real experiences from buyers who have worked with the agent you are considering.
Make Informed Decisions
Use our comparison tools to evaluate multiple agents side by side. Filter by specialisation, location expertise, languages spoken, and performance metrics.
Questions to Ask Your Agent
• How long have you been licensed in the UAE?
• What is your experience with properties in my target area?
• Can you provide references from recent clients?
• What is your fee structure and what services are included?
• How will you help me with due diligence and documentation?
• What is your availability for viewings and communication?