Dubai continues to be one of the most attractive global real estate markets for Indian buyers. Strong infrastructure, investor-friendly regulations, high rental demand, and long-term residency opportunities have positioned Dubai as a preferred destination for overseas property investment. Whether the objective is rental income, capital appreciation, or lifestyle diversification, Dubai offers a structured and transparent buying process for Indian residents.
Akoaham Holding supports Indian buyers throughout the Dubai property journey with clarity, compliance, and strategic guidance. This step-by-step guide explains how Indians can legally and confidently purchase residential property in Dubai, from planning and remittance to registration and post-purchase management.
Why Indians Prefer Buying Property in Dubai
Dubai allows freehold ownership for foreign nationals in designated areas. There is no personal income tax or capital gains tax on property income in the UAE, making returns more efficient compared to many global markets. In addition, qualifying property investments can support long-term residency options such as the 10-year Golden Visa.
For Indian investors, Dubai also offers currency diversification beyond INR, a stable regulatory environment, escrow-protected off-plan purchases, and strong rental demand driven by professionals, tourists, and long-term residents.
Step-by-Step Guide to Buying Property in Dubai from India
Step 1: Define Your Investment Goal and Budget
The first step is identifying the purpose of the purchase. Buyers should clearly decide whether they are aiming for rental income, long-term appreciation, a second home, or a combination of income and lifestyle benefits.
Ready properties generally provide immediate rental income, while off-plan projects may offer lower entry prices and flexible payment plans. A realistic budget should account not only for the property price but also registration fees, service charges, and long-term holding costs. Evaluating net returns rather than projected headline yields helps build a safer investment strategy.
Step 2: Choose the Right Location and Project
Location directly impacts rental demand, resale value, and long-term growth. Indian buyers often prefer established and high-liquidity communities such as Dubai Marina, Downtown Dubai, Business Bay, Jumeirah Village Circle, Dubai Hills Estate, and emerging master-planned developments with upcoming infrastructure.
Before finalising a property, it is important to study rental trends, occupancy levels, transaction volumes, developer track record, and future development plans. A well-chosen location reduces risk and improves exit flexibility.
Step 3: Work with a Licensed Real Estate Advisor
Purchasing property in Dubai should always be done through a RERA-registered advisor approved by the Dubai Land Department. This ensures legal compliance, verified projects, and transparent pricing.
Akoaham Holding specialises in assisting Indian investors with verified developers, financial structuring, risk evaluation, and end-to-end transaction support. The focus remains on long-term value creation rather than speculative buying, ensuring each purchase aligns with the buyer’s financial objectives.
Step 4: Prepare the Required Documentation
The documentation process for buying property in Dubai is simple and buyer-friendly. Individual Indian buyers generally need a valid passport copy and basic contact details for KYC purposes. A UAE visa is not required to purchase property.
If a mortgage is involved, banks may request additional documents such as income proof, bank statements, and a credit report. Corporate buyers must submit company documents and board resolutions where applicable.
Step 5: Remit Funds from India Legally
Indian residents can remit funds under the Reserve Bank of India’s Liberalised Remittance Scheme, which allows up to USD 250,000 per individual per financial year. Family members can each remit within their individual limits if required.
Funds must be transferred through official banking channels using the correct purpose code for overseas property purchase. Payments for off-plan properties are sent directly to the developer’s escrow account, while ready property transfers follow trustee instructions. Ensuring the remitter name matches the buyer name helps avoid unnecessary delays.
Step 6: Reserve the Property
For off-plan purchases, buyers sign a reservation form and pay the booking amount. The developer then issues the Sales and Purchase Agreement, and the property is registered under Oqood.
For ready properties, buyers sign Form F, pay the agreed deposit, and schedule the transfer through a Dubai Land Department–approved trustee. Proper title verification, escrow validation, and due diligence are essential before proceeding.
Step 7: Transfer and Registration
On the transfer date, buyers pay the Dubai Land Department registration fee, which is 4 percent of the property value, along with trustee and administrative charges. Once registration is completed successfully, the buyer receives a digital title deed issued by the Dubai Land Department.
Step 8: Mortgage Options for Indian Buyers
Several UAE banks offer mortgage facilities to non-resident Indians. Typical loan-to-value ratios range from 50 to 60 percent, with repayment tenures extending up to 25 years, subject to eligibility.
Mortgage pre-approval is strongly recommended before committing to timelines with sellers or developers. Buyers should always assess net rental yields after factoring in mortgage costs and service charges.
Step 9: Post-Purchase Setup and Property Management
After purchase, tenancy contracts must be registered under Ejari. Utilities, service charge accounts, and handover inspections should be arranged promptly. Overseas buyers often appoint professional property managers to handle leasing, rent collection, and maintenance, ensuring the asset remains protected and income flows smoothly.
Step 10: Residency and Golden Visa Opportunities
Property ownership in Dubai can support long-term residency options. Buyers investing AED 2 million or more may qualify for the 10-year Golden Visa, subject to valuation and financing conditions. Both ready and eligible off-plan properties can qualify under current regulations.
Typical Costs When Buying Property in Dubai
Buyers should budget for the Dubai Land Department fee of 4 percent, trustee and registration charges, agency fees on resale transactions, Avoid registration for off-plan purchases, and annual service charges based on the property type and community.
Tax Considerations for Indian Residents
The UAE does not impose income tax or capital gains tax on property income. However, Indian residents must declare overseas assets and rental income in India. Rental income and capital gains are taxable as per Indian laws, and proper records of remittances under LRS must be maintained.
Why Choose Akoaham Holding
Akoaham Holding focuses on verified projects, trusted developers, transparent financial analysis, and risk-managed investment strategies. Indian buyers benefit from structured guidance, compliance-focused execution, and long-term portfolio planning.
For personalised guidance, property selection, or investment consultation, connect with the team through the Akoaham Holding and take the first step toward secure property ownership in Dubai.
