9 Factors to Consider When Buying a Home in Dubai

Are you thinking about buying a home in Dubai? Whether you are purchasing for personal use or as an investment, making an informed decision is essential. Dubai’s dynamic property market offers exceptional opportunities, but it also requires careful planning and financial awareness.

In this guide, we highlight the key factors you should consider before purchasing a property, from affordability and savings to rental yields, visa eligibility, location, and market conditions. Understanding these elements will help you choose wisely and avoid costly surprises.

• The Ownership Duration
• Affordability
• Savings
• Rental Yields
• Real Estate Residence Visa
• Location
• Property Size
• High Quality
• Market Conditions
• Key Takeaways
• FAQs

1. The Ownership Duration (Tenure)

Before taking real steps in such investment, you should ask yourself some questions to clear your vision; these questions are how long have you been in Dubai? And how long is the period you are planning to spend here? 

The answers to these questions are pretty important when you’re planning to own a property in Dubai; this is as if you’re not sure about your long-term plans or stay in the country, then maybe renting is more suitable for you. 

2. Affordability 

There is a global norm that helps you define affordability which is your monthly housing expenses should not exceed 30% of your salary. It’s also crucial to budget for upfront fees, which can be estimated at approximately 7 to 8% of the purchase price. 

As an owner, you will also have to plan for the ongoing maintenance fees as well as pay the annual service fees. 

You can find below some of the needed fees for buying a property in Dubai for a cost overview.

• Dubai Land Department fees: 4% of the total property price
• Administration fee: AED 580 
• Property registration fee:
  • AED 2000 + 5% VAT: For properties valued below AED 500,000
  • AED 4,000 + 5% VAT: For properties valued above AED 500,000 
• Real Estate Agent fee: 2% of the purchase price + 5% VAT
• Bank Mortgage Arrangement fee: 1% of the loan amount + 5% VAT
• Dubai Land Department Mortgage Registration fee: 0.25% of the loan amount + AED 290
• Property Valuation fee: Between AED 2,500 – AED 3,500 + 5% VAT

Moreover, you will have to pay the annual maintenance charges to the Dubai Land Department based on the RERA Service Charge and Maintenance Index. 

This index determines a specific charge per sq. ft and varies by community. You can also find up-to-date fees directly from the DLD’s website.

There’s no better time to begin exploring mortgage options than now, and Mortgage Finder is your perfect starting place.

3. Savings

The down payment is one of the most important factors that you should consider while planning to buy a new home in Dubai. In line with UAE Central Bank Regulations, the minimum deposit required for properties valued at less than AED 5 million is:

• Expats: 25% of the purchase price
• UAE Nationals: 20% of the purchase price

Moreover, it’s not allowed to use a personal loan obtained from a local bank to finance your down payment, as it must come from your own savings. 

However, the above-mentioned upfront transaction costs, agent fees, and bank fees may be financed through a personal loan. This is according to the procedure for buying property in Dubai.

4. Rental Yields

You might have future plans for using your home as an investment; accordingly, it’s important to assess whether the projected rental income will be sufficient to cover your monthly mortgage repayment and maintenance expenses.

Investing in Dubai is surely a good step to consider but it should be well planned. 

5. Real Estate Residence Visa 

Buying property in Dubai may make you eligible for UAE residency, depending on the property’s value and the visa route you apply for.

2-Year Property Investor Visa (Dubai):
Property owners may apply for a renewable 2-year residence visa through Dubai Land Department channels, subject to eligibility requirements.

10-Year UAE Golden Visa:
If you own property valued at AED 2 million or more, you may qualify for the 10-year Golden Visa under the real estate investor category.

Visa criteria and requirements can change, so always check the official government portals before applying.

6. Location

While searching for a home to buy in Dubai, there are different factors that you should keep in mind; the location is one of the crucial ones. You should pick a location that is in close proximity to work, schools, and daily services. 

Moreover, the daily commute time to reach your regular destinations, attractions, and facilities is also important when deciding if this location is suitable for you.

7. Property Size

Undoubtedly, the size of your home is among the main points you look after when choosing a new house. It’s always better to think and plan ahead. 

So, for example, if you’re planning to get married soon, have babies, or some of your family members are going to join you, then a spacious home is a great option. 

On the other hand, in case you have a small family or living on your own, then you can go for smaller units, so you don’t pay for something you don’t need. 

8. High Quality

When buying a home, you should consider how long have been the building constructed. This is especially if you’re going to buy a secondary property, meaning that you’re not the first owner.  

Bear in mind to check the works of maintenance and renovation as well as the unit’s overall status.

Besides, for those looking for an off-plan option, then double-check the reputation of the developer regarding their work and commitment to delivery dates.

9. Market Conditions 

Before making the final decision, it’s good and important to check the market status and condition of the area you choose. This is so you can know the best timing to buy and ROI in this district in case you offer it for rent later. 

Key Takeaways

Purchasing a home in Dubai is a significant step that should be guided by informed decisions rather than impulse. Understanding costs, regulations, and market dynamics helps you minimise risks and maximise the benefits of ownership.

FAQs

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