UK buyers
Buying Dubai property from the UK
A general overview of what UK-based buyers tend to ask about. It is a starting point for your own research, not advice.
Draft: tax, legal and immigration information has not been reviewed for your circumstances. Rules can change.
Prices, pounds and dirhams
Developers price homes in UAE dirhams (AED). On this site you can switch to pounds, but those figures are indicative only. We use a rate of 0.2125 from 1 November 2026. Your bank or transfer provider will use its own rate on the day you pay.
Buying without being in Dubai
Parts of an off-plan purchase can often be done remotely, such as reservations and some document signing. What is possible depends on the developer and the paperwork. Ask early so you can plan any trips.
Payment plans
Off-plan homes are usually paid for in stages, from booking to handover. Plot each instalment against a date and a sterling budget, and allow room for fees and exchange-rate movement.
Tax and legal advice
We do not give tax or legal advice. UK residents may have UK tax obligations on property overseas. Speak to a qualified UK tax adviser and an independent lawyer familiar with Dubai property before you commit.
Calls in UK time
Consultations are booked in Europe/London time, so you do not need to work out the time difference. Our form accounts for British Summer Time automatically.
Purchase costs
Budget for registration, trustee, agency, legal and any mortgage charges as well as the purchase price. Dubai Land Department lists a 2% buyer and 2% seller registration fee; the agreement determines who pays. Confirm the actual transaction charges before reserving.
Mortgages for UK buyers
Nonresident eligibility, deposits, income evidence, approved properties and rates depend on the lender. An off-plan payment plan is not a mortgage offer. Obtain a written financing assessment and allow for valuation, arrangement and insurance costs.
Transferring money
Compare the total AED received after exchange-rate margins and transfer fees. Verify the recipient and project escrow instructions independently before sending money. A GBP budget can change between instalments.
Rental income and UK tax
UK tax residents may need to declare overseas rental income through Self Assessment. HMRC treats overseas property profits and losses separately from UK property income. Tax obligations and relief depend on your circumstances; ask a UK tax adviser before buying.
Golden Visa
Dubai Land Department describes an investor route for property with a purchase value of at least AED 2 million. Mortgage documentation and other eligibility requirements apply. Buying a property does not guarantee approval; verify the current terms with the authorities.