Can foreigners buy property anywhere in Abu Dhabi?

No. Foreign ownership is restricted to designated freehold areas such as Yas, Saadiyat, and Reem Islands.

What is the main fee when buying?

A 4 percent transfer fee paid to DMT plus possible 2 percent agency commission.

Does buying property give residency?

Yes. Property worth AED 2 million or more qualifies you for a two-year renewable property visa.

Buying Property in Abu Dhabi as Foreigner 2026

Where Foreigners Can Buy in Abu Dhabi

Foreign buyers may purchase freehold property in approved areas such as Yas Island, Saadiyat Island, Al Reem Island, Al Maryah Island, and selected plots on Abu Dhabi Island. Outside these zones, ownership is limited to leasehold structures of up to 99 years.

Key Costs You Need to Budget

Expect a 4 percent DLD transfer fee paid to the Department of Municipalities and Transport, plus a 2 percent agency fee if using a registered broker. Title deed issuance costs AED 5,400 and a standard mortgage registration fee runs at 0.05 percent of the loan amount. Annual service charges vary by community and are published each January by the building management.

Step-by-Step Purchase Process

First, secure pre-approval from a bank licensed by the Central Bank of the UAE. Second, sign a sales purchase agreement and pay the 10 percent reservation deposit held in escrow. Third, complete due diligence with a RERA-registered lawyer who checks the title and service-charge history. Fourth, pay the balance and register the title deed at the DMT office within 30 days of signing.

Financing Options for Expats

Banks typically offer up to 80 percent financing for properties valued under AED 5 million and 70 percent for higher-value units. You must show a minimum salary of AED 15,000 per month and have at least two years of employment history in the UAE. Interest rates in 2026 average 4.25 to 5.25 percent fixed for five years.

Visa and Residency Benefits

Owning property worth AED 2 million or more qualifies you for a renewable two-year property visa issued by ICP. The visa is tied to the asset, so selling the property ends the residency permission unless another qualifying investment is made.

Taxes and Ongoing Ownership

Abu Dhabi currently has no annual property tax. Capital gains are also untaxed for individuals. Owners must keep service fees current to avoid DMT restrictions on future sales or leasing. Always verify the latest service-charge schedule before completing any purchase.

Ask Tovi for more

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Got more UAE questions?

Tovi knows current 2026 UAE rules, fees, and processes. Ask anything — visas, banking, housing, schools. Ask Tovi free →