NRI Guide to Buying Property in Dubai
Documents Required for NRIs
The documentation process for NRI buyers in Dubai is simple and fast. Most developers accept soft copies for booking.
Required Documents List :
-
Passport copy (front & back)
-
PAN card
-
Latest address proof (Aadhaar, Driving License, Utility Bill)
-
Recent passport-size photo
-
Tax Residency Certificate (optional but helpful for investment buyers)
-
If buying on mortgage → 6-month bank statements
Step-by-Step Buying Process for NRIs
-
Shortlist the project
Based on budget, community, lifestyle, ROI and developer reliability. -
Reserve the unit
Pay an initial booking amount (5 to 20%) to block the unit. -
KYC & document submission
Send passport + PAN + address proof digitally. -
Sign the SPA (Sales Purchase Agreement)
Developer shares the contract; you sign digitally. -
Make payments as per schedule
Payment plans vary—standard is 60/40, 70/30 or 80/20 for off-plan. -
Receive Oqood registration
This legally registers the property under your name. -
Handover
Final inspection + completion of remaining payment.
How NRIs Can Send Money to Dubai Legally
-
Bank wire transfer (SWIFT)
-
International remittance via your Indian bank
-
NRE/NRO account transfer
-
Forex card (rarely used but allowed)
-
INR payment options for selected developers (Sobha, Danube, Damac – case by case)
Costs, Fees & Taxes for NRIs Buying in Dubai
-
DLD Fee: 4%
-
Admin Fee: AED 3,000 – 5,000
-
Oqood Fee: AED 3,000
-
Brokerage: 0% (Developer pays the brokerage)
-
Property Tax: 0%
-
Capital Gains Tax: 0%
Why NRIs Prefer Investing in Dubai
Dubai delivers some of the highest rental yields globally. Areas like Business Bay, Downtown, Marina, Dubai Hills and JVC consistently attract both tenants and investors, making them preferred choices for NRIs.