How To Buy Property in Abu Dhabi (Expats & Non-Residents)

Abu Dhabi’s thriving real estate market attracts expats and non-resident investors for a wide range of opportunities, including high-rental yields, luxury properties, and long-term investment growth. Namely, in 2024, Abu Dhabi’s real estate market had a total of 28,249 mortgage transactions, which is a 10.45 per cent surge totaling AED96.2 billion. This capital city's reliable and secure climate elevates its appeal even more, making it the perfect spot to own a property. 

Knowing what it takes to buy property, like the documents needed, service fees involved, determining eligibility and other aspects is crucial to accomplish a smooth transaction. It is also important to familiarize yourself with the legal requirements so you can meet all necessary conditions and avoid potential delays or complications in the buying process.

We’ll cover everything you need to know about buying property in Abu Dhabi for expats and non-residents in a step-by-step sequence so you can become familiar with the process and make an informed investment decision. 

Step-by-Step Process of Buying Property in Abu Dhabi(Expats & Non-Residents)

A flow chart of the property buying process in Abu Dhabi

To become an owner of a property in Abu Dhabi as an expat and a non-resident, you must follow certain steps. Whether you want to invest in a property or buy a home in Abu Dhabi, becoming familiar with the laws and regulations will help you to understand exactly what it takes to start the process.

Becoming a part of Abu Dhabi’s vibrant community has never been easier. The following steps outline all the important aspects of buying a property so you can make an informed decision.

1. Step: Start By Choosing The Right Property

The first step in buying property in Abu Dhabi is to pick the right type of property that suits your needs, lifestyle, and investment goals. Whether you want to find a home to live in or an investment property, it’s crucial to think about factors such as location, budget, and the type of property you prefer. Let’s say you prefer to have modern amenities, beaches, shopping centers, and cultural hubs nearby, then Saadiyat Island, Yas Island, and Al Reem Island are great options for expats.

On the other hand, non-residents usually choose their property by investment potential, so one of the popular areas for that is Yas Island known for its proximity to entertainment attractions like Yas Marina Circuit and Ferrari World. The properties in this area can be suitable for both short-term and long-term rental income and capital appreciation. Let’s take a closer look at both the properties that can be purchased by expats and non-residents.

Types of Properties You Can Buy as an Expat and a Non-Resident

A while ago, UAE’s real estate law stated that expats living in the Emirates and non-residents were not permitted to buy and own property. Fortunately, some changes were made in real estate law, and expats as well as non-residents were able to, in some conditions, buy properties in Abu Dhabi. You may ask, what are the differences between properties expats can buy and those non-residents can buy? There are some limitations that have to do with the location of the properties, the type and the status of the individual who wants to purchase

Expats can buy properties in nine areas in the Emirate, let’s take a look at those areas:

• Saadiyat

• Mariya

• Yas Island

• Reem

• Al Raha Beach

• Al Reef

• Lulu Island

• Masdar City

• Sayh Al Sedairah

To be able to buy property in these areas, a registration of its sale on TAMM is needed. TAMM is a digital platform in Abu Dhabi that offers streamlined services for foreigners, visitors and businesses. You should opt for “register for first sale” if the property hasn’t been sold before. 

On the other hand, if you are not buying property from the developer directly, choose the “Register sale and purchase of plots or real estate units outside development areas” option. If buying properties that are not yet finished, you should pick the 'register the sale of an off-plan plot or unit.' option on TAMM.

Non-residents do not have legal status in the Emirates, however, they can visit and stay for a short period. When it comes to property ownership, the legal framework allows non-residents to invest with detailed regulations. They can buy property in the freehold areas, some of which include Yas Island, Al Reem Island, Saadiyat Island, and other areas.

2. Step: Engage with a Licensed Real Estate Agent

You want to have the right real estate agent on your side to help you understand the intricacies of buying property in Abu Dhabi. The complex property market can be a bit overwhelming at first, so the expert knowledge of a real estate professional can help expats and non-residents find the right property that aligns with their budget and needs. You do not only need guidance and advice, the market insight and price negotiation can be of great help too.

If you want a stress-free property buying experience in Abu Dhabi, at Kredium, you can get help from real estate agents with extensive knowledge and experience. Make all the steps involved in your next investment a breeze, and realize your goal of a hassle-free buying experience.

3. Step: Gather Documents You Need to Buy Property in Abu Dhabi

One of the most important steps in buying a property in Abu Dhabi as an expat or a non-resident is gathering all the necessary documents for the purchase. These documents are used to ensure that the transaction is legally valid so make sure you collect all the necessary parts for the transaction. 

Different processes require different documents, so for instance you will need the following for the property registration process: 

• Your passport and valid UAE residence visa

• Emirates ID

• Signed sale agreement

• No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the developer

• Proof of payment for fees

Moreover, when working with a real estate agent, you will need to have a Power of Attorney agreement as it allows the representative to complete tasks on your behalf. When it comes to the property, you should request the following documents:

• Original or updated Title Deed available on the Dubai REST app

• Floor plan of the property

• No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the developer

• Completion certificate for completed properties

Of course, a sales agreement together with the Memorandum of Understanding should not be excluded as well. Lastly, you want to get a manager's cheque ready for the purchase price and any other fees, as you'll need it during the final transfer. Let’s take a look at the detailed table with all the documents that would be needed in the process of buying property for both expats and non-residents.

Documents needed to buy property in Abu Dhabi for expats and Non-residents

4. Step: Sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for sale of property in the UAE document is put together by a real estate agent and it serves to outline the terms and conditions of buying a property agreed by both seller and buyer. The document covers important information like the sale price, schedule of the payment and the responsibilities that each party has.

In UAE, the details of the property MoU are valid for 30 days and all documentation must be completed within this period. After 30 days, MoU is not valid anymore so a new agreement is needed. It is important to have a property MoU to ensure transparency and security because this document does the following:

• Defines terms: makes sure all parties understand payment terms, conditions and time frames.

• Minimizes disputes: helps reduce misunderstandings by formalizing the commitments of all parties involved.

• Encourages Prompt Action: The validity of 30 days encourages the parties to quickly go through the necessary steps.

5. Step: Get Mortgage Pre-Approval (If Applicable)

After you decide to buy property and find a mortgage as the best financing option it could be a good idea to apply for a mortgage pre-approval. You should do this step before you find the right property to buy, and the letter will be valid from 60 to 90 days which gives you enough time to look for a property and pick the right one. 

If you’re looking for reliable mortgage brokers or real estate experts to guide you through the process, contact Kredium.ae for professional advice and support tailored to your needs.

6. Step: Complete Property Transfer

A simple and easy process of transferring property is made possible by the government and it is done electronically. To make sure the process goes smoothly, the government came up with an online system, Tawtheeq. This contract registration system guarantees that the rental transactions are legal as it protects the rights of both landlords and tenants. 

Moreover, TAMM, a one-step platform, is used to transfer the title deed and it allows you to track the progress online and waste no time by going directly to government offices.

Determine Your Eligibility Criteria for Expats and Non-Residents

You want to be informed about eligibility criteria before you start the property buying process. Factors like the freehold investment zones, types of contracts you need, registration process and legal requirements are all important to consider. For example, expats and non-residents are only able to purchase property in designated zones or meet investment criteria to qualify for residency mortgages. Understanding the legal framework of Abu Dhabi, the needed documents and other aspects of the buying process will help you go through the process smoothly and make sure your investment is secure.

Freehold investment zones

Non-residents are eligible to purchase property in specific investment zones, including Al Reem Island, Saadiyat Island, Yas Island, and other designated areas. These zones are carefully selected to allow foreign investment and they typically include a combination of commercial, residential and properties of mixed use.

Musataha

With this contract, a Musataha can rent property that is owned by the government for a period of 10 to 50 years. During this time, investing in property, selling, developing buildings and leasing the land is allowed to expats and non-residents. 

Usufruct

This is a legal right to use and derive profit from a property that is owned by another person. For a duration of 10 years, the holders of Usufruct rights can dispose of the property as well as have the right to mortgage without the need to get the landlord’s consent unless this has been agreed upon.

Registration of Property

To have your property ownership formalized, you need to register it with the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT). To do so, you have to submit the necessary documents, pay registration fees(usually it is around 4% of the property price) and get a title deed. The process allows for legal recognition and protection of property rights.

Legal Consultation

Engaging with legal professionals familiar with UAE property laws is advisable to navigate the complexities of Musataha and Usufruct agreements, ensuring compliance and safeguarding investment interests.​

By comprehending these legal frameworks and adhering to registration protocols, non-residents can effectively invest in Abu Dhabi's real estate market while ensuring their property rights are legally protected.

Important Factors to Consider When Buying Property in Abu Dhabi

Buying property in Abu Dhabi is not a decision to be taken lightly since you want to ensure a smooth transaction and protect your investment, it’s essential to carefully assess several key factors. These include verifying the legal ownership and title of the property, researching the market and developer reputation, and more. 

Each of these steps helps minimize risks and ensures you make an informed, confident purchase. Let’s take a look at the important factors and key considerations in the table below.

Factors and key considerations when buying property in Abu Dhabi

Ownership and Title Verification

Expatriates get the ownership deeds of residential properties within 99 years, allowing them to sell, lease or transfer the property they buy. While the land remains under the ownership of the government, this long-term lease provides substantial control over the property, offering significant flexibility for both personal use and investment purposes.

After the payment and all the fees are covered, the buyer gets the title deed transferred to his name. The transfer happens at the Abu Dhabi Land Department and the seller and buyer must be present. After this protocol, you are officially the owner of your property in Abu Dhabi.

Market & Developer Reputation

Getting to know the market and researching the developer’s reputation with past projects can help you assess the reliability and quality of the properties you are looking into. You want to be sure that the developer has a strong track record since this can signal that the property will be completed on time, by following high-quality standards and that the property will be finished in line with your expectations. 

You can also minimize the risk of encountering any legal or construction issues down the line and therefore provide greater peace of mind for your investment. 

Location & Amenities

One of the top factors you want to go over is the location of the property and the amenities available in the near vicinity. Not only does the right location allow a convenient lifestyle and a great community atmosphere, the potential of appreciation plays a big role in deciding where to buy. Some properties could be more appealing to investors because of their proximity to major highways, public transportation as well as schools and entertainment options.

For example, if you are a non-resident looking to invest in the right property, you might want to look into future infrastructure projects and development in the area, as well as urban planning potentials. These can significantly influence how much the property will be worth over time and the lifestyle it can offer for a buyer.

Financial Planning & Payment Terms

Avoid jumping into the process of buying property before you know exactly how you can cover the expenses and whether you’ll be able to follow the payment terms. Make sure you know your financial limits and capacity to budget for the purchase.

Start by creating a realistic budget that can help you understand your limits and then consider the down payment. To come up with an appropriate down payment amount, you want to estimate your savings and consider how much you want to cover for the mortgage later on. The more you pay upfront, the less you’ll have to pay for a mortgage down the road.

No Objection Certificate (NOC)

This legal document is issued to confirm that the property for sale does not have any legal issues and is free from debts. It is a formal written statement that discloses that there are no objections to the information provided in the document. This highly important document can help when dealing with developers as it legitimizes the transfer of property from one party to another. 

If you want to be sure that your property has a “clean title” and that there are no legal disputes associated with it, you get an NOC. It confirms that any outstanding fees related to the property are taken care of. Therefore, the buyer can be sure that there won’t be an issue of inheriting financial burdens after buying the property.

Appreciation Potential & Legal Support

After a while, some properties in Abu Dhabi might be subject to appreciation in value. This is especially true in some highly sought-after areas because of ongoing developments and improved infrastructure. If you want a stable return on investment, pay close attention to the ongoing and future projects as well as property location and proximity to important amenities. For a steady rental income, you can buy a commercial property located in the business district.

Getting legal support by hiring a property lawyer can help you avoid additional fees and some common pitfalls that can further complicate and delay the process. Because of the special jargon used in legal language and plenty of paperwork that needs to be checked and filled in with expert legal help, hiring a conveyancing lawyer is essential. This is a type of lawyer that dabbles in buying property, the paperwork involved, and the buying process as a whole.

Maintenance Costs

Do not overlook maintenance like community fees, repairs, general maintenance as well as bills and property insurance since these are just some of the costs you’ll need to pay. Other fees include property management costs, building management and more.

For example, service costs can range from AED 10 to AED 20 per square foot annually, while maintenance and repairs in general may add an additional AED 1,000 to AED 5,000 per year. It is important for property owners to factor these costs in, so that the property remains in good condition over time.

Service Fees and Costs When Purchasing Property in Abu Dhabi

Aside from the purchase price of the property itself, there are several additional service fees and costs that buyers need to consider when purchasing property in Abu Dhabi. If not taken into consideration, these fees add up quickly and sabotage the buying process. 

Whether it’s the sale transaction fee, land consolidation fees or other, you should have them in mind before you follow with the transaction. When you plan ahead, you can be sure that you will be able to commit financially to owning a property in Abu Dhabi.

General fees that apply to both expats and non-residents

Resolution No. 49 of 2018 is a key regulation of property service fees in Abu Dhabi. It replaced previous laws and established a new fee structure for real estate transactions to make the process a lot more transparent and efficient. The resolution outlines updated fees for various property dealings and includes sales, leases and registrations.

The fees set by Resolution No. 49 are paid to the relevant municipalities based on the property’s location, such as Abu Dhabi City Municipality, Al Ain City Municipality, or AI Dhafra Region Municipality.

The Benefits of Owning a Property in Abu Dhabi

Expats and non-residents can both benefit from buying property in Abu Dhabi because of the strong return on investment, high-quality lifestyle, tax benefits and more. In the past few years, the Abu Dhabi real estate market witnessed major growth and more people became interested in investing in the area. Even more so, properties are continuing to appreciate over time making long-term capital gains a particularly prominent benefit of owning a property in Abu Dhabi.

Rental Yields and ROI

When it comes to popular freehold communities, Yaas Island is one of the places where rental yield has seen a steady increase. It is also a place known for various entertainment options like the Yas Mall, golf courses and theme parks. Even more so, a 7.5% increase in rental prices in 2024 shows that both buyers and tenants prefer a more comfortable lifestyle and are ready to invest in it. Let’s take a look at the villa sales prices and the rental yield in more detail.

Villa Sale Prices and Rental Yield Analysis

Source: Propertyfinder

The Modern Infrastructure

The modern, world-class infrastructure of Abu Dhabi including well-preserved roads, healthcare facilities and educational institutions make it a particularly attractive place for families. If you have children, there are plenty of family-friendly properties to choose from.

Even more so, according to Infrastructure Global major multi-million-dollar projects have been in the making, with the goal to improve community wellbeing and preserve the environment. The constant investment in infrastructure means that you can be sure any area you buy a property from has potential to flourish.

Political Stability

Political stability is another important benefit when it comes to property investment, and the proactive approach of the government fosters sustainable long-term growth. The low crime rates together with robust law enforcement create a secure space for residents and property owners alike. In 2025, diversifying and strengthening the business environment will be a priority, so anyone planning to purchase property in Abu Dhabi should not worry about any political unrest in the near future.

A well-established, stable political system in Abu Dhabi, ruled by the Al Nahyan family has been committed to creating a business-friendly and stable environment since 2022. Also, the country’s low crime levels and high personal safety have been enough a reason to attract expats and non-residents alike. Together with its economic stability that provides a solid economic base, Abu Dhabi’s real estate market is only projected to grow in the current and following years.

Legal Protection

Legal protection for homeowners in the UAE allows for a secure and transparent process of property ownership by safeguarding rights and easily resolving disputes. You can rest assured that your legal rights and investments are protected by the country. Both expats and non-residents who decide to buy a property in Abu Dhabi can be sure that the process will be followed by real estate laws and regulations that fully protect the buyer.

With the property laws specifically put in place to ensure that the rights of property buyers are protected, together with laws that hold developers accountable for their projects, you can be sure that deciding to invest in Abu Dhabi is a good idea. Even in case of disputes related to property transactions, you can seek legal advice via the UAE court system. 

Future Prospects

Future prospects of the real estate sector in Abu Dhabi are promising given in mind the constant increase of property demand. According to the 2025-2030 plan, the government wants to start building new residential communities so that more people are drawn to Abu Dhabi. Some of the projects include the completion of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park which should save over 6.5 million tons of carbon emissions every year.

Moreover, the government is putting in place the plan to reduce Abu Dhabi’s reliance on the oil sector as the main source of their economic growth and put the focus on industries that are knowledge-based. As far as environment is concerned, the Environment Vision 2030 plan was developed to integrate Abu Dhabi in the environmental, social as well as economic vision. The goal is to improve and preserve Abu Dhabi’s natural heritage and therefore contribute to the better overall quality of life for all its citizens.

FAQ Section

For the questions left unanswered, we prepared a frequently asked questions section you can go through. 

1. What is a Golden Visa in UAE for and who is eligible to apply?

With a Golden Visa in UAE, wealthy individuals have the right to get a legal residency by investment status which gives them the right to live, get employed, access healthcare services and get education in the nation of their choice.

2. What is the average price of a house in Abu Dhabi?

For apartments, the average price is AED 1,782/sq ft and the average price for houses on sale is AED 1,432/sq ft.

3. What is a good salary in Abu Dhabi?

In general, an excellent salary in Abu Dhabi would be around 50,000 AED (approx $13,600 USD) per month. On the contrary, 10,000-15,000 AED ($2,700-$4,000) would be thought of as a decent salary.

Your Path to Property Ownership in Abu Dhabi: Final Thoughts

Ready to turn your property dreams into reality? Abu Dhabi’s growing real estate market is waiting for you to seize the opportunity, whether you are an expat looking to settle down or a non-resident exploring investment potential. By following all the steps covered above you will be able to go through the process smoothly, avoiding any delays or financial issues. 

Becoming an owner of an Abu Dhabi property has never been closer. If you want to ensure that all the steps from start to finish are fully covered, you can get help from Kredium’s expert real estate services. Our tailored advice can guide you through each step of the process for a smooth buying experience.

Source | Pexels

Source | Kredium