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Can foreigners buy property in Dubai?

Last updated: May 2026
Dubai Practical Editorial Team· Collaborative authorship

Signed by: Sarah Al Qasimi (Lead Editor). Fact-checked by the full editorial team.

Yes — since 2002, non-UAE nationals can purchase freehold property in designated areas. These cover most of modern Dubai including Downtown, Marina, Palm Jumeirah, Business Bay, Dubai Hills, JVC, and hundreds of other communities. Outside freehold zones, foreigners can only lease for 99 years. Freehold ownership includes the right to apply for a property investor visa.

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