Can expats buy property in Abu Dhabi? Yes, expats and overseas nationals can buy property in many of the best areas of Abu Dhabi.
This guide will walk you through everything you must learn about buying property in Abu Dhabi, from eligibility and legalities through to choosing and financing your new home.
As a leading developer in Abu Dhabi, we’ve helped hundreds of expats make the UAE their home - here’s what you need to know.
1. Can Expats Buy Property in Abu Dhabi?
Foreigners can buy property in Abu Dhabi and need not be a resident to do so, 2019’s changes to the law opened up freehold property purchases to expats and foreign investors in Abu Dhabi’s designated investment zones.
Expats and foreign investors from non-GCC countries can select from a range of property types within these zones including villas, townhouses and apartments. You’ll see that there are many excellent purchase options to suit different lifestyles, budgets and investment goals.
The key eligibility criteria for non-GCC foreigners buying property in Abu Dhabi are:
- Purchasing in the designated freehold zones
- Presenting a valid passport
- Being able to supply the required down payment
UAE nationals and GCC passport holders can purchase property anywhere in Abu Dhabi. Only non-GCC nationals are restricted to the designated freehold zones.
2. Abu Dhabi Property Ownership Laws for Expats
There are four ways to buy property in Abu Dhabi’s freehold zones as a non-GCC national:
- Freehold Ownership
- Musataha Contracts
- Long-term Lease
- Usufruct Rights
A Comparison
Ownership Type |
Length of Ownership |
Rights |
Benefits |
|
Freehold |
99 years |
Full ownership rights to property, but not the land it stands on |
|
|
Musataha |
50 years (renewable by mutual agreement) |
To use, construct or alter the property |
|
|
Long-term Lease |
25-99 years (as agreed) |
As per individual agreement |
|
|
Usufruct |
99 years |
Ownership and use of property only, with no alterations permitted |
|
According to UAE law, the land or apartment building that your property is within or on is held by a trust. Property owners are automatically a member of this trust.
So, what happens at the end of the ownership period? The property simply reverts to the trust. As per law, the trust will grant each member a new 99-year lease, guaranteeing them continued ownership.
- Pro Tip: Not sure which type of ownership suits you? Our team can advise based on your goals and lifestyle.
3. Where Can Expats Buy Property in Abu Dhabi?
Popular investment zones for overseas buyers include:
- Saadiyat Island, combining unspoilt beaches and Saadiyat Cultural District
- Mariya, home of the world’s newest financial center and abundant luxury retail
- Yas Island, with Yas Marina, beaches, Yas Mall and theme parks
- Zayed City, a fantastic family-friendly community and one of the most affordable freehold areas
Leading Abu Dhabi Property for Expats
All these Bloom Holding developments and more are currently open to expats and foreign investors.
Bloom Development |
Features and Amenities |
Types of Units |
|
|
Mediterranean-inspired studios to six-bedroom villas |
|
|
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Studios to three-bedroom apartments, both residential and hotel apartments. |
|
|
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Various apartments, including studios and penthouses, plus three-bedroom townhouses. |
The Practicalities of Your Abu Dhabi Property Purchase: Expat FAQs
Here, your visa, mortgage and financing, and other key questions are answered.
Can Expats Get a Residency Visa by Buying Property in Abu Dhabi?
Yes, residence visas are available to Abu Dhabi property owners. Visa options for foreigners include the 10-year Golden Visa, available to property investors making purchases valued at AED 2,000,000 or more outside a mortgage.
- Many of our buyers secure visas through our properties - ask our legal advisors how.
Can Non-UAE Nationals Apply for a Mortgage in Abu Dhabi?
Yes, expats can access local bank mortgage financing. Banks will usually finance around 75-80% of the property value for expats. There are various fixed-rate and variable interest options available. You will need proof of salary.
Can I Buy Off Plan as an Expat?
Yes, expats can buy off-plan property in Abu Dhabi. Prices for off plan residential homes are competitive in the city. Developers also offer safe and flexible payment plans, making off plan property an attractive and accessible option.
Can I sell the property before my visa ends?
Yes, resale before or when your visa ends is legal. There is a strong demand for resale properties in the area.
Can Expats Rent Out Their Property in Abu Dhabi?
Yes, freehold owners can lease their properties out on the rental market. Abu Dhabi property offers high rental yields. With many high income professionals and a large expat community, Abu Dhabi is a strong and stable market.
Ready to Own a Home in Abu Dhabi?
Buying in Abu Dhabi as an expat is simple. A strong market and new laws make the process easy and keep your investment safe. With a range of amazing communities, each with incredible properties to choose from, your next property purchase is out there waiting for you.
Whether you're looking for your dream home or your next investment, our team is here to help. Why not start the search by browsing our available Bloom properties or request a call from a property advisor for bespoke recommendations?
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