Buying · Downtown Dubai

How to Buy Property in Downtown Dubai

The step-by-step DLD process for buying in Downtown Dubai, from offer to title deed, with real timelines.

Price per sqft

AED 3,100 per sqft

1-bed rent

AED 140,000/yr

Gross yield

6–7%

Short-let occupancy

82%

The eight steps

Shortlist and view, agree price, sign Form F (MOU) with a 10% deposit, seller applies for the developer NOC, book the trustee office appointment, pay the 4% DLD fee and manager's cheques, receive the title deed, then hand over keys. Cash deals close in 2–4 weeks, mortgaged deals in 4–8.

Budget for Downtown Dubai

At AED 3,100 per sqft, a typical unit here transacts near AED 2,418,000. Add 4% DLD, ~AED 4,200 trustee fee, 2% agency and 0.25% mortgage registration if financed.

Downtown Dubai at a glance

Downtown Dubai is the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall district with the highest tourist footfall in the UAE. Buying sits at AED 3,100 per sqft — roughly AED 2,418,000 for a standard one-bedroom — while long-term tenants pay about AED 140,000 a year. Hosted as a licensed holiday home, the same unit averages AED 805 a night at 82% occupancy, around AED 240,937 gross. Owners on our managed programme average AED 332,492 — a 38% uplift.

Frequently asked questions

Can foreigners buy in Downtown Dubai?

Yes — Downtown Dubai is a designated freehold area, so any nationality can take 100% ownership.

How long does the transfer take in Downtown Dubai?

Two to four weeks for a cash purchase; four to eight weeks with a mortgage.