Dubai’s real estate market is one of the most attractive investment destinations in the world, offering high rental yields, tax-free incentives, and strong capital appreciation. But one of the most common questions potential investors ask is: How much money do I need to invest in property in Dubai?
Whether you’re looking for a luxury apartment, a beachfront villa, or a high-yield investment property, Dubai offers a range of options for different budgets and LIVERIA is here to assist you. Let’s break down the costs involved.
1. Minimum Investment to Buy Property in Dubai
Dubai has no restrictions on foreign ownership in designated freehold areas, making it accessible to global investors. The starting price for property investment in Dubai depends on the type of property and its location:
- Apartments in Prime Areas (Downtown, Dubai Marina, Business Bay): AED 1M+
- Apartments in Emerging Areas (JVC, Dubai South, Dubailand): AED 600K+
- Townhouses & Villas in Premium Locations: AED 2M+
- Luxury Beachfront Villas (Palm Jumeirah, Jumeirah Bay Island): AED 15M+
💡 Key takeaway: The absolute minimum investment for a property in Dubai starts at AED 600,000, but if you want to apply for an investor visa, you’ll need to invest at least AED 750,000 (or AED 1M for a longer-term visa).
2. Additional Costs to Consider
Beyond the purchase price, investors should factor in transactional and ownership costs, including:
✅ Dubai Land Department (DLD) Fees: 4% of the property price
✅ Registration Fees: AED 2,000 – AED 4,000 depending on price
✅ Agency Fees: 2% of the property price
✅ Mortgage Fees (if applicable): 1% of the loan amount
✅ Service Charges: Varies by development (AED 10-50 per sqft annually)
💡 Pro tip: If you buy with LIVERIA during the pre-launch phase, developers often cover some of these fees, making it more cost-effective and we as an agency give you a Agency Fee Waiver!
3. How Much Money Do You Need for a Mortgage in Dubai?
If you’re financing your investment with a mortgage, the UAE Central Bank requires expat investors to make a minimum down payment:
- Property below AED 5M: 20% down payment
- Property above AED 5M: 30% down payment
- Off-plan properties: Typically 40-50% during construction
💡 Example: If you buy a AED 2M apartment, you’ll need at least AED 400K as a down payment if you’re taking a mortgage.
4. Off-Plan vs. Ready Properties – What’s the Cost Difference?
Investing in off-plan properties allows you to enter the market with lower upfront costs:
🔹 Lower down payments (starting at 10%)
🔹 Flexible payment plans (up to 5 years post-handover)
🔹 Higher appreciation potential before completion
In contrast, ready properties require full payment upfront or financing through a mortgage but can generate immediate rental income.
💡 Pro tip: Most new developments sell out before the public launch, so having access to pre-launch projects through an exclusive real estate partner such as LIVERIA is crucial.
5. How Can You Secure the Best Investment Opportunities?
Dubai’s best-priced units and highest-return investments are often reserved before they reach the general market. Through LIVERIA’s direct connections with top developers, we provide exclusive access to pre-launch projects—allowing our clients to:
✔️ Secure units at the lowest prices before price increases
✔️ Access the best payment plans
✔️ Invest in the most in-demand developments
📩 Contact LIVERIA today to receive priority access to Dubai’s top off-plan projects and start building your real estate portfolio with confidence!
