Buying Property in Dubai as a Foreigner (2025 Guide)

Buying Property in Dubai as a Foreigner (2025 Guide)

Dubai remains one of the world’s most attractive real-estate markets, and its freehold zones allow non-residents to purchase villas and apartments outright. If you’re exploring investment opportunities—or a second home—in Sobha Hartland II or any other prime community, this guide answers the most-asked questions, covers legal requirements, and outlines the costs you should expect in 2025.

1. Can foreigners really buy property in Dubai?

Yes. Since 2002, Dubai’s freehold law has permitted expatriates to purchase, sell, or lease property in designated areas. Sobha Hartland II is one of these zones, meaning buyers obtain 100 % ownership and full title deeds registered with the Dubai Land Department (DLD).

2. Key legal requirements in 2025

• Passport copy (and UAE visa if applicable)

• Signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between buyer and seller/developer

• Payment of the 4 % DLD transfer fee plus AED 540 admin fee

• Final registration of the title deed via Oqood (off-plan) or Ejari (ready unit)

3. What are the total fees?

Typical closing costs range from 6 % to 7 % of the purchase price in 2025:

DLD Transfer Fee 4 %

Trustee/Registration Fee AED 4,000 – 8,000

Agent Commission (if resale)2 %

Mortgage Registration (if applicable)0.25 % of loan + AED 290

4. Off-plan vs. ready property—Which is right for you?

Off-plan advantages

• Lower entry price and staggered payment plans

• Potential capital appreciation during construction

Ready property advantages

• Immediate handover & rental income

• Transparent service-charge history

Sobha Hartland II offers both off-plan towers and completed waterfront villas, letting buyers choose the strategy that fits their goals.

5. Why Sobha Hartland II is a prime choice in 2025

• Freehold waterfront community 15 minutes from Downtown Dubai

• Prices from 1.7 M AED, with flexible post-handover payment plans

• High build quality backed by Sobha Realty’s in-house construction model

• Projected rental yields of 7 – 9 %, above the Dubai average

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to complete a property transfer in Dubai?
Once all paperwork is ready, transfers at the DLD usually finish in under an hour. Off-plan units are registered via Oqood during construction.

Is Sobha Hartland II a freehold area?
Yes. Foreign buyers receive full ownership and title deeds issued by the Dubai Land Department.

Can I get a residence visa if I buy property in Dubai?
Purchasing real estate valued at AED 750k+ qualifies you for a renewable two-year investor visa; AED 2 M+ may qualify you for a 10-year Golden Visa.

What rental yields can I expect at Sobha Hartland II?
Depending on unit type, projected gross yields range between 7 % and 9 %.

Ready to explore villas and apartments with strong investment potential?

Contact our team for a free consultation or to book a viewing tour of Sobha Hartland II and secure your 2025 investment in Dubai’s premier waterfront community.