Dubai’s real estate market is booming, and the city continues to rank among the world’s most attractive property investment destinations. But the reality is that the buying property in Dubai process involves far more than picking a listing, and many buyers are surprised by the steps, checks, and paperwork involved.

Many expats and first-time buyers feel stuck when it comes to understanding the laws, documents, fees, and what actually happens at the Dubai Land Department.

This guide simplifies the buying property in Dubai process for both residents and non-residents so you can avoid confusion, make confident decisions, and move smoothly toward ownership.

What Is the Process of Buying Property in Dubai?

The process of buying property in Dubai is quite straightforward with smart property platforms like Prosper. Let’s explore how to buy properties with Prosper.

1. Login to Prosper and under categories, tap on ‘buy’.
2. Under ‘Property type’, you can filter your choice of properties from apartments, villas, townhouses, offices and service apartments.
3. You can also filter how many bedrooms and bathrooms you’re looking for in your new property.
4. Prosper’s advanced filters also lets buyers filter their location, price range, property area (sqft), and furnishing status.
5. Under ‘property status’ in the filters, you can also choose whether you’re looking for an under construction property or a readily available one.
6. Browse through all the properties available for sale according to your choice of filters and requirements.
7. After selecting a property, you’ll get a dedicated Property Specialist and Relationship Manager to streamline your documentation, compliance and other formalities.

You can also head over to Prosper’s website for a glimpse of all the properties available for sale if you’re looking to buy or invest in a property.

Buying Off Plan Property in Dubai Process

The process for buying off-plan property in Dubai is quite similar to the process we discussed above.

Here’s how you can buy an off plan property in Dubai on Prosper:

• Login to Prosper and under categories, tap on ‘buy’.
• From the advanced filters, under ‘property status’, click on ‘under construction’. You'll now be able to browse through all off plan properties in Dubai.
• Proceed with filtering your property type, price, location, and other requirements.
• After selecting a property, you’ll get a dedicated Property Specialist and Relationship Manager to streamline your documentation, compliance and other formalities.

Documents Required For Buying Property In Dubai

When purchasing property in Dubai, you’ll need to prepare a few essential documents depending on your residency status. Here are the documents required for buying property in Dubai.

For UAE residents, the required documents include:

• Passport
• Emirates ID
• Valid residence visa

For non-residents, the process is even simpler — only a passport is required to proceed with a property purchase.

In addition to identification documents, buyers must provide a 10% security deposit of the agreed purchase price at the time of signing the sales agreement. This deposit can be submitted in several ways:

Personal cheque – Allowed only for Dubai-based bank accounts. The cheque is held by the broker or seller but not cashed until the property transfer is complete.
Third-party cheque – Suitable for buyers who do not have a personal cheque. In this case, an undertaking letter must accompany the cheque.
Bank transfer – A direct transfer to the real estate agency, offering a convenient alternative to cheques.

Preparing these documents and deposit options in advance helps ensure a smooth, efficient property purchase process in Dubai.

Can You Buy Property in Dubai on Installments?

Yes, you can buy property in Dubai on installments, and it is one of the most flexible ways for expats and first-time buyers to enter the market. Installment options are available for most off-plan projects and even some ready properties, allowing buyers to start with a 10 to 20% down payment, followed by scheduled payments during construction.

Many developers also offer post-handover plans where the remaining 30 to 40% is paid over three to ten years, making ownership more accessible.

My Mortgage supports buyers who want to buy property in Dubai on installments through structured mortgage options. They help expats and non-residents secure quick pre-approvals, competitive interest rates, and mortgage structures suited to their financial profile.

Whether you choose developer installments or bank financing, Prosper ensures you understand every detail clearly and select the payment option that fits your long-term goals.

Can Expats Buy Property in Dubai?

Yes, expats and non-residents can legally buy property in Dubai with full freehold ownership rights, as long as the property is located in one of the designated freehold zones approved for foreign buyers. These areas include Dubai Marina, Downtown Dubai, Palm Jumeirah, JVC, Business Bay, and several new investment communities. Because these are approved zones, the answer to ‘can expats buy property in Dubai?’ is always a clear yes.

Freehold ownership gives expats complete control to live in, rent out, sell, or transfer the property, and rental income can be fully repatriated without restrictions. All ownership is securely registered through the Dubai Land Department, ensuring that foreign buyers hold the same legal rights over their property as UAE nationals in those zones.

Since the regulations are straightforward, the paperwork for expats buying a property in Dubai is also minimal and easy to follow. Here are the documents required for expats:

• Valid passport copy
• Proof of funds or bank statements
• Mortgage pre-approval, if financing the purchase
• Signed Sale Agreement or SPA
• Developer-issued NOC for off-plan resales
• DLD registration forms and payment receipts

Do You Get a Visa If You Buy Property in Dubai?

Yes, buyers can qualify for different types of residency visas in Dubai based on the value of the property they purchase. The UAE offers multiple visa categories designed for investors, long-term residents, and retirees, making property ownership even more attractive for expats and non-residents. Below are the three key visa options available when you invest in Dubai real estate.

1. 10-Year Golden Visa

The 10-year Golden Visa is the most prestigious residency option for property investors in Dubai. If your main question is do you get a visa if you buy property in Dubai above AED 2 million, then yes — this category applies. To qualify, buyers must own property worth at least AED 2 million, and the investment must meet the minimum value through full payment or a mortgage structure that falls within the allowed threshold.

This visa offers long-term stability, allows family sponsorship, and gives investors the freedom to live, work, and study in the UAE. It also provides access to healthcare, banking, and business opportunities, making it ideal for long-term settlers and high-net-worth individuals.

2. 5-Year Retirement Visa

The 5-year Retirement Visa is designed for investors aged 55 and above who want to settle in Dubai for the long term. Eligibility typically requires property ownership with a minimum value of AED 1 million, along with meeting financial criteria set by UAE authorities.
This visa offers a practical pathway for retirees seeking lifestyle stability and high-quality living, while enjoying the benefits of long-term residency tied to their property investment.

3. 2-Year Investor Visa

The 2-year Investor Visa is the most accessible option for property buyers, requiring them to buy residential properties in Dubai valued at AED 750,000 or more. It can be renewed every two years as long as the property remains under the investor’s name.

This visa is suitable for expats, first-time buyers, and non-residents seeking a straightforward residency route. Mortgaged properties also qualify, provided at least 50% of the property value has been paid and supported with a standard NOC from the bank or developer.

Is Buying Property in Dubai a Good Investment?

The process of buying property in Dubai is considered a strong investment because the city consistently offers high rental yields, steady demand from expats, and long-term price growth supported by new developments and global confidence.

With smart property apps like Prosper, you get expert guidance, verified listings, and a relationship manager who manages your entire buying journey. And with My Mortgage, you can secure competitive financing that makes property ownership even more achievable.

Connect with us today to explore and manage verified Dubai properties with expert guidance.