Dubai, the largest emirate in the UAE, combines Arabian authenticity with global standards. Foreigners often choose to buy a house in Dubai from a developer because the emirate and the UAE as a whole have no income tax.
Benefits of Buying New Homes in Dubai from a Developer
Local construction standards are on par with European standards, and sometimes even exceed them. Buildings in Dubai's residential complexes are equipped with smart home systems (KNX), energy-efficient materials (EIFS), and a structural warranty of up to 10 years.
Key benefits:
- Interest-free installment plan. Payments are spread over 3-7 years with a down payment of 5-10%. For example, the Emaar South project offers installment plans until 2028 with a 10% down payment.
- Capital growth. Local real estate prices are expected to increase by 15-20% between 2024 and 2025, with completion expected.
- Transparency of transactions. Escrow accounts controlled by the Dubai Land Department (DLD) protect buyers' funds and minimize risks.
Prices for Houses in New Residential Complexes in Dubai
On average, a new home in a new residential complex in Dubai costs between 4,100 and 15,000 rubles per square meter. Townhouses in Dubai from the developer can be purchased starting from approximately $626,000, while luxury villas start from $1.36 million. When purchasing off-plan (buildings under construction in Dubai), the price is often locked in, offering protection against inflation and flexible payment options.
Average prices for new homes for sale in Dubai:
|
District |
Property type | Area (m²) |
Price per m² (USD) |
Average property price (USD) |
| Dubai Hills Estate | Townhouse / Villa | 200–350 | $6810–9530 | $1.2–1.9 million |
| DAMAC Hills | Townhouse / Villa | 180–400 | $4900–$7630 | $760,000–$1.3 million |
| The Valley | Townhouse | 150–250 | $4080–5990 | $625–950 thousand |
| Arabian Ranches III | Villa | 250–400 | $5450–$8170 | $1–1.6 million |
| Palm Jumeirah | Villa | 500–1000 | $12,250–$16,340 | $3.2–6.8 million |
You can buy a townhouse in Dubai from a developer for less than the listed prices if you buy during the construction phase. In this case, a preliminary agreement allows you to lock in a price 20-30% below the market price for completed properties, as well as choose custom finishes.
Popular Areas for Buying a House under Construction in Dubai
The most popular area of Dubai for home purchases is Dubai Hills Estate. A new home in the complex here costs between $625,000 and $950,000.
Other popular areas:
- DAMAC Hills. A lagoon with sports areas and Mediterranean-style villas. ROI up to 7%.
- The Valley. An eco-community with Golden Beach and farms.
- Arabian Ranches III. Family-friendly neighborhood with parks and schools (Choueifat). Anya-style villas with a 5.5% ROI.
- Palm Jumeirah. Private beaches and views of the Burj Al Arab.
Frequently Asked Questions about Buying Homes in Dubai under Construction
What are the additional costs associated with purchasing a new villa in Dubai?
- The Dubai Land Department fee (DLD) is 4% of the property's value. For example, if you purchase a house or villa in Dubai from a developer for $816,900, the fee will be approximately $32,700.
- Registration of property rights - from $545 to $1090 (depending on the type of property).
- Service fees (ground maintenance) range from $5.45 to $9.1 m² per year. For a 300 m² villa, this is approximately $245–410 per year.
- NOC (No Objection Certificate) — from $135 to $410.
- Mortgage fees are 1–2% of the loan amount.
Which areas in Dubai are the best for building villas?
Dubai Hills Estate, DAMAC Hills, and Palm Jumeirah lead the way with infrastructure (schools, hospitals, parks) and ROIs of 6-8%. The Valley is suitable for affordable townhouses with green spaces.
What is the average cost to buy a new home in Dubai?
- Overall price range: $820,000 – $1.9 million
- Townhouse (≈ 180 m²) — from $680,000.
- Villa (≈ 350 m²) – from $1.36 million.
- Average price per square meter in family areas: $5450 – 9550 / m².
Will I get UAE residency after purchasing a house from a developer?
Purchasing real estate worth at least $204,200 (equivalent to AED 750,000) grants a two-year UAE residency visa. If the property is priced at least $544,600 (equivalent to AED 2 million), the investor receives a 10-year "golden visa" with the right to sponsor family members and conduct business in the country.
Newly built homes in Dubai are also eligible for these programs, provided they are purchased from an accredited developer and at least 50% of the purchase price is financed. Visa eligibility occurs after the purchase agreement (Oqood) is registered and the deposit is confirmed with the Land Department.
What are the steps involved in purchasing a residential home from a developer in Dubai?
- Selection of property and booking (EOI, 5-10% deposit, refundable).
- Signing of the SPA (Sale Purchase Agreement) with a payment schedule.
- Payment in stages (for example, 10% every 6 months).
- Register with DLD and obtain Title Deed.
- Handover (transfer of keys). Duration: 1-2 months for off-plan.
Is it possible to buy a house in Dubai off-plan remotely?
Remote transaction processing is available through developer platforms (Emaar Online, DAMAC Portal). Required documents include a passport scan, EOI, and a deposit transfer (SWIFT). DLD registers the transaction online, and a notary certifies the signatures.
