Dubai, the largest city in the UAE, is a global hub of innovation. In 2025, it remains the leader in real estate transactions thanks to its tax-free environment. Investors most often choose to buy apartments in Dubai directly from developers for real estate investment, as local rental yields range from 6-10%.
Benefits of Buying an Apartment in Dubai from a Developer
Apartments in Dubai from the developer are available for purchase with several types of installment plans, most commonly 60/40 or 70/30, where the first installment is a down payment. The second installment can be paid no later than three years after completion.
Other advantages of real estate in Dubai:
- Investment return. Apartments in skyscrapers Dubai bring in 6-10% per annum from rent and pay for themselves in 6-8 years.
- Legal transparency. Developers register transactions through the Dubai Land Department (DLD), ensuring there are no hidden risks.
- Premium infrastructure. Modern complexes in Dubai include swimming pools, smart systems, coworking spaces and parks.
Prices for Apartments in New Residential Complexes in Dubai
The local market offers a wide range of properties, from luxury apartments in Downtown Dubai to budget options in Jumeirah Village Circle. Buying an apartment in Dubai during the construction phase offers the best value: discounts of up to 25% are available at the start of sales.
Average prices for new apartments for sale in Dubai:
| District | Price per m² (USD) |
| Downtown Dubai | 3800–6000 |
| Dubai Marina | 3200–4800 |
| Jumeirah Village Circle | 1900–2700 |
| Dubai Hills Estate | 2800–4500 |
| Business Bay | 3100–4300 |
Popular Areas for Buying an Apartment in Dubai under Construction
Downtown Dubai is the emirate's most popular and expensive district. The most popular apartments here are in the Emaar Dubai skyscraper, priced at $490,000, with rental yields an 8% ROI.
Other popular areas:
- Dubai Marina. A waterfront district with over 200 towers and yacht clubs. Projects like LIV Marina offer apartments with bay views starting from $330,000; prices are expected to grow 22% in 2024–2025.
- Palm Jumeirah. An artificial island with luxury properties starting from $545,000.
- Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC). An affordable area with prices starting at $163,000 for a studio.
- Dubai Creek Harbour. A new eco-hub with canals and views of the Burj Al Arab. Average listing prices start at $380,000.
Frequently Asked Questions about Buying New Apartments in Dubai
Is it possible to buy an apartment in Dubai and own it forever?
Foreigners receive housing in perpetual ownership with the right of resale and inheritance in special freehold zones.
How much does it cost to maintain an apartment in Dubai?
Service charges for apartments in Dubai residential complexes range from $3.80 to $15.80 per year. For an 80 sq m apartment in Dubai Marina, the annual fee is $3,000 to $3,500.
Which area of Dubai is best for investment?
Downtown Dubai leads with an ROI of 8-10%. Dubai Creek Harbor is promising for capital growth: prices increased by 18% in 2024. JVC is suitable for budget investments (ROI 7-8%).
Will I get UAE residency after purchasing an apartment from a developer?
Purchasing an apartment in a new building in Dubai for AED 750,000 or more grants a 2-year residence visa, while purchasing an apartment for AED 2 million or more grants a 10-year Golden Visa.
What are the steps involved in purchasing an apartment from a developer in Dubai?
- Reservation: deposit 5-10% (20,000-50,000 AED).
- Signing the SPA at the developer's office or at a notary's office.
- Payment according to a schedule (for example, 10% every 3 months).
- Registration in DLD (4% of the cost + 580 AED fee).
- Receiving keys (1–2 years for off-plan).
What is the average price of a new off-plan apartment in Dubai?
An off-plan apartment in Dubai can be purchased for $163,000–327,000 (a 40 sq m studio), while a two-bedroom apartment will cost almost twice as much.
Is it possible to buy a new apartment in Dubai remotely?
Developer platforms (Emaar, DAMAC) or agents (Emirates.Estate) allow you to complete the transaction remotely.
