What are the requirements, conditions and risks to be aware of before buying real estate in the UAE?
What are the main requirements and conditions that an investor should consider when deciding to buy real estate in the UAE?
What risks and regulatory aspects should be considered before investing in real estate in the UAE?
You need to be clear in the beginning
When you decide to buy real estate in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), it is critical to first understand the legal requirements and operational conditions that govern the investment. In many parts of the UAE, it is permissible for foreign investors to purchase in "freehold" (full ownership) in designated areas, but it is always necessary to verify that the real estate is properly registered with the appropriate local authority (e.g., in the case of Dubai the Dubai Land Department).
Second, the profile of the investment should be considered: what type of property are you buying? A "ready-to-move" apartment, a villa, an "off-plan" property (still under construction)? The type of property determines timing, risk, and payment methods. For example, many developers in the UAE offer deferred payment plans for "off-plan" properties.
Another important requirement is to check the correct tax and corporate status: although the UAE is known for an advantageous tax regime, it does not mean that the investor in his or her home country (e.g., Italy) does not have to make some fulfillments. For example, an Italian investor will need to assess the domestic tax framework under which rental income, capital gains, and foreign declarations will fall.
An additional aspect relates to the local context-specific and operational risks: regulations can vary between emirate and emirate, real estate market conditions can be cyclical, and attention also needs to be paid to operating costs, rent, and maintenance, especially if the property will be managed remotely.
Why it is critical to assess these elements
Taking into account requirements, conditions, and risks before a purchase in the UAE is not optional: it is the basis for a conscious investment. Every choice (such as geographic area, property type, payment structure, intermediary company) can affect real returns, capital retention, and peace of mind about future management. An investment made "on a hunch" or just based on promised numbers can then lead to surprises if one has not studied the context well.
Practical aspects to check
Make sure the property is registered with the local authority and the real estate agent is licensed (e.g., RERA license in Dubai).
Check the payment plan (especially if "off-plan") and the builder/developer's terms: delivery time, penalties, possibility of deferment.
Consider location: strategic areas, future rental demand, infrastructure, amenities, accessibility. Areas such as Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, Business Bay are more established.
Consider the costs of management, absurdity, possible short or long lease, and assess the sustainability of the rent.
Integrate with your personal/tax situation: if you are a resident of Italy, consider how the investment will be treated on the tax side (e.g., RW panel, foreign income).
Why choose REMA Living Real Estate for this journey
We at REMA Living Real Estate are specialized in UAE-based real estate investments and can take you step-by-step: from property selection to regulatory due diligence, from payment structure to post-purchase management support. Our approach is ethical, transparent and geared toward creating real value, not just numbers. Your peace of mind and effectiveness are at the heart of our service: you don't just want to "buy a property," you want to build a new life, integrate a family project, make sense of an investment. We know the local context, we speak your language, we understand your vision, and we offer you the structure you need to make it all work.
A piece of common sense advice
Before you sign any contract or pay significant sums, take the time to listen, understand, reflect. Although the market seems favorable and the opportunities "within reach," foreign real estate investment is not a quick ride-it requires vision, preparation and patience. Ask questions, compare, evaluate alternatives. Keep a long-term view: real estate may be a tangible asset, but it is the strategy, management, credibility of the interlocutor, and clarity of the path that will make the difference.
