Buying off-plan property in the UAE as a foreigner
Yes, you can. Foreigners can own property outright in the freehold areas of the UAE, in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and the other emirates that have them.
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Where you can buy
Across the UAE, in the areas designated as freehold.
You do not need to live in the UAE
In Dubai, foreigners who do not live in the UAE, and expatriate residents, may own freehold property. In Abu Dhabi, investors from 116 nationalities who do not live in the UAE bought property in the first half of 2026, according to the Abu Dhabi Real Estate Centre (ADREC).
How your purchase is registered
The developer registers your contract with the government. In Dubai this is the Dubai Land Department (DLD), within 90 days of signing. In Abu Dhabi it is DARI, within 21 days. In Ras Al Khaimah it is within 5 working days. In Dubai you provide your Emirates ID, or your passport if you live abroad.
Where your money goes
In Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah, off-plan payments go into an escrow account opened in the project's name, and the money is released to the developer as construction progresses.
Residency
Across the UAE, a property worth AED 2 million or more, off-plan included, lets you apply for the ten-year Golden Visa. In Abu Dhabi, an off-plan buyer can apply once at least AED 2 million has been paid to the developer.
Buying as a foreigner
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