Apartment for Sale in Dubai : Buyer’s Guide

Buying an apartment in Dubai can be a great investment. It has the potential to create value and become an important asset in your portfolio. You should ensure that you have all the necessary information before making such an investment, as it could significantly impact your financial future if done right. There is a large choice of Apartment for Sale in Dubai, but read this article to discover great tips and smart advice.

Dubai is well known for its unique addresses, providing investors and renters alike with a flourishing property market. This mighty city has rightfully earned its status as one of the most coveted places to live in, thanks to reasonably priced accommodations, access to top-notch amenities, and a quality lifestyle that promotes personal and financial security. Aside from these perks, investing in Dubai presents a high return on investment (ROI) from housing units for sale. These are just some of the reasons why millions of people visit the city each year, with inhabitants hailing from over 200 countries, in order to visit the large choice of Apartment for Sale in Dubai. Those looking to capitalize on its real estate industry need not look further than its bevy of record-breaking skyscrapers!

What are Freehold and Leasehold Properties in Dubai ?

When it comes to real estate in Dubai, buyers have the option of investing in freehold or leasehold property. They can either become the outright owner of the property, or rent it out for a predetermined duration. Freehold means permanent ownership, whereas leasehold conveys temporary rights for use and occupancy. Depending on individual needs and preferences, one can make a choice between these two options.

Dubai's freehold market is separated into two groups: those that are open to UAE and GCC Nationals only, and those accessible to expats and foreign investors. The law allowing freehold ownership was accepted in 2002, granting non-nationals the right to buy properties in specified freehold areas. This kind of purchase agreement includes both the property as well as the land underneath.

Apartment for Sale in Dubai usually present themselves as commonhold properties. This means that multiple investors own separate flats in a single building, and all contribute towards the upkeep of shared areas. This payment is known as service charges, which are collected by the building owner/developer. Commonhold apartments in Dubai have much the same appeal of freehold properties, allowing you to rent, sell and bequeath them without issue.

For those searching for Apartment for Sale in Dubai, the top freehold destinations are Palm Jumeirah, Downtown Dubai, and Dubai Marina. If you're seeking something more economical, try Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC), Town Square, International City or Liwan. Deira, Al Qusais, Al Nahda, and Dubai Silicon Oasis are beloved amongst UAE Nationals and GCC citizens, and for sure you will find great Apartment for Sale in Dubai.

Leasehold properties, sometimes known as long-term leases or usufructs, are sold under lease terms that can last from 10 to 99 years. These properties cannot be acquired outright and must be leased from either a UAE or GCC national. When the lease expires, ownership of the purchased property is returned to the freeholder. These types of deals are generally available in areas such as Deira and Dubai Silicon Oasis which have been set up specifically for GCC and UAE nationals but are also open to foreign purchasers.

The government sets the boundaries between leasehold and freehold areas, which can be altered at any given time. In resume, Apartment for Sale in Dubai need to be deeply explored regarding all aspects before investing your capital.

Which are all types of Apartment for Sale in Dubai ?

The city is an amazing place with a wide range of Apartment for Sale in Dubai. From luxury penthouse apartments with stunning views, to more modest studio apartments, there's something for everyone in this magnificent metropolis.

When it comes to buying property in Dubai, tenants and investors alike have a wealth of possibilities to pick from. There are the conventional flats for renters, as well as more ambitious alternatives such as duplexes, lofts, and posh penthouse units for those investing.

If you're looking for something more affordable, check out off-plan flats in Dubai. These units are sold from the developer before they're even built, on a flexible payment plan with a lower down payment than what you'd usually pay for secondary market properties. Popular areas for this type of investment include Downtown Dubai, Akoya Oxygen, Meydan City and Mohammed Bin Rashid City. So consider these Apartment for Sale in Dubai seriously.

If you're considering investing in Dubai's residential properties, there are a variety of options to pick from. The apartments on offer range from studio size to five-bedroom apartments, with prices ranging between AED 160k and AED 58M. Each apartment has amenities including a maid's room, laundry room, terrace or balcony, and storeroom; while apartment buildings boast facilities like shared gyms, pools, kid's play zones and covered parking. Luxury buildings come complete with additional features such as rooftop gardens, jogging tracks, sports courts, and event spaces.

Apart from single-floor apartments, there are unique duplex and triplex units across two and three floors of an apartment building. For those craving the luxury lifestyle, hotel apartments provide access to excellent amenities, while for those seeking the ultimate in indulgence, penthouses can be purchased. Moreover, some apartments in Dubai have been furnished with designer furniture from renowned brands like Versace, Fendi and Armani Casa.

Most popular areas of Apartment for Sale in Dubai ?

When looking for Apartment for Sale in Dubai, areas such as Downtown Dubai and Palm Jumeirah are some of the most sought-after locations. These neighborhoods provide a plethora of options for those searching to buy a home in this vibrant city.

The most sought-after locations for Apartment for Sale in Dubai are varied, ranging from lavish and luxurious abodes like

Palm Jumeirah

Downtown Dubai

Dubai Marina

The World Islands

Jumeirah Bay Island

JBR - Jumeirah Beach Residence

to budget-friendly neighborhoods like Al Mamzar, Dubailand, International City and Liwan. Town Square is also a highly affordable area to find flats.

Diverse Types of Apartments in Dubai

Contrary to common belief, there isn't just one type of apartment for sale in Dubai; instead, there are various luxury options catering to different needs, preferences, and budgets. This assortment of choices provides flexibility for individuals seeking an apartment that aligns with their unique requirements. Let's delve into the details of these apartment types:

Studios

Size doesn't compromise luxury in Dubai. Studios offer a perfect blend of a lavish lifestyle in a cozy setting. Ideal for individuals living alone, frequent visitors, or budget-conscious newlyweds, studios provide an affordable residential option with minimal furnishing requirements. Available across different areas of the city, studios are a practical choice for those seeking a compact living space.

Perks:

Affordable residential option
Minimal furnishing required
Available across different areas of the city

Apartments

The most commonly chosen type, apartments offer a multitude of benefits. Whether you desire a small, luxurious flat or a spacious one or a simple apartment for sale in Dubai, the city provides endless choices regarding the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, unit size, and location. For those seeking breathtaking views, luxury waterfront apartments are available in communities like Palm Jumeirah, Bluewaters Island, and Dubai Marina.

Perks:

Varying number of bedrooms and bathrooms
Floor-to-ceiling glass windows
Available in gated communities and towers

Hotel Apartments

The epitome of luxury, hotel apartments offer unparalleled comfort and independence. Combining the opulence of hotels with complete privacy, these serviced apartments provide amenities such as housekeeping and room service. Found in top hotels across Dubai, luxury hotel apartments for sale are available in areas like Downtown Dubai, Jumeirah Beach Residence, and City Walk.

Perks:

Comfortable residency
Access to hotel amenities and services
Shared building gyms, pools, and kids' playing areas

Top Luxury Apartment Communities in Dubai:

1. Palm Jumeirah

A community synonymous with a flawless residential experience, Palm Jumeirah boasts premium towers and buildings. Positioned by the Arabian Gulf, it offers waterfront apartments with easy access to entertainment options like Nakheel Mall and Atlantis, the Palm. Find an apartment for sale in Dubai Palm Jumeirah is smart investment.

Location: Off King Salman Bin Abd Al Aziz Al Saud, Dubai.

Top Residences in Palm Jumeirah:

Muraba Residences
Marina Residences
Shoreline Apartments
Six Senses Residences

Sizes:

Studios starting at 30 sqm
Apartments: Starting 78 sqm
Hotel Apartments: Starting 30 sqm

Prices:

Studios averaging AED 1,400,000.
1-bedroom apartments: Avg. AED 2,800,000
2-bedroom apartments: Avg. AED 4,400,000
3-bedroom apartments: Avg. AED 7,900,000
4-bedroom apartments: Avg. AED 30,000,000
5-bedroom apartments: Avg. AED 84,000,000
6-bedroom apartments: Avg. AED 55,000,000

2. Downtown Dubai

Situated in the heart of the city with Burj Khalifa gracing its skyline, Downtown Dubai is a vibrant community with premium towers and skyscrapers. Offering a range of services and amenities, it is home to iconic attractions like The Dubai Mall and The Dubai Fountain. Select one apartment for sale in Dubai Downtown Dubai could be the best option if you spend your time in this area.

Location: Financial Center Road, Dubai.

Top Residences in Downtown Dubai:

Burj Khalifa, Burj Views
The Address Residence
The Address Boulevard
The Lofts

Sizes:

Studios starting at 40 sqm
Apartments: Starting 62 sqm
Hotel Apartments: Starting 42 sqm

Prices:

Studios averaging AED 1,400,000.
1-bedroom apartments: Avg. AED 1,800,000
2-bedroom apartments: Avg. AED 3,400,000
3-bedroom apartments: Avg. AED 4,900,000
4-bedroom apartments: Avg. AED 17,000,000
5-bedroom apartments: Avg. AED 32,000,000
6-bedroom apartments: Avg. AED 110,000,000

3. Dubai Marina

Finding an apartment for sale in Dubai Marina is an easy exercise. Known for its captivating towers and marina views, Dubai Marina offers lavish homes with stunning waterfront views. A perfect blend of services, leisure destinations, and luxury apartments make this community a sought-after choice.

Location: Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai.

Top Towers in Dubai Marina:

Damac Heights
Princess Tower
Marina Gate

Sizes:

Studios starting at 32 sqm
Apartments: Starting 62 sqm
Hotel Apartments: Starting 35 sqm

Prices:

Studios averaging AED 1,400,000.
1-bedroom apartments: Avg. AED 1,400,000
2-bedroom apartments: Avg. AED 2,400,000
3-bedroom apartments: Avg. AED 3,500,000
4-bedroom apartments: Avg. AED 8,000,000
5-bedroom apartments: Avg. AED 21,000,000
6-bedroom apartments: Avg. AED 85,000,000

4. Dubai Harbour

A world-class community by Meraas Developments, Dubai Harbour offers seafront luxury and is home to the largest marina in the region. Nestled between Palm Jumeirah and Dubai Marina, it provides various luxurious residences with top amenities. Don’t hesitate to select an apartment for sale in Dubai Harbour if you are looking for a great ROI on your investment.

Location: Off King Salman Bin Abd Al Aziz Al Saud, Dubai.

Top Residences in Dubai Harbour:

Harbour Gate
Creek Rise
The Cove
Creek Palace

Sizes:

Studios starting at 32 sqm
Apartments: Starting 62 sqm
Hotel Apartments: Starting 35 sqm

Prices:

Studios averaging AED 1,400,000.
1-bedroom apartments: Avg. AED 2,400,000
2-bedroom apartments: Avg. AED 4,400,000
3-bedroom apartments: Avg. AED 7,500,000
4-bedroom apartments: Avg. AED 12,000,000
5-bedroom apartments: Avg. AED 28,000,000
6-bedroom apartments: Avg. AED 120,000,000

5. Business Bay

Neighboring Downtown and offering quick access to its services, Business Bay is an ideal choice for those working in the area. Abundant luxury apartments in Business Bay come in various sizes and interiors, providing multiple options for potential buyers. More than easy to find a great apartment for sale in Dubai in this area.

Location: Al Khail Road, Dubai.

Top Towers in Business Bay:

Merano Tower
Executive Towers
Damac Maison Prive

Sizes:

Studios starting at 35 sqm
Apartments: Starting 70 sqm
Hotel Apartments: Starting 42 sqm

Prices:

Studios averaging AED 900,000
1-bedroom apartments: Avg. AED 1,400,000
2-bedroom apartments: Avg. AED 2,400,000
3-bedroom apartments: Avg. AED 3,600,000
4-bedroom apartments: Avg. AED 14,000,000
5-bedroom apartments: Avg. AED 47,000,000
6-bedroom apartments: Avg. AED 105,000,000

Purchasing an apartment in Dubai is a significant step, and this guide simplifies the process. For first-time homebuyers, an additional article provides specific tips, ensuring a smooth experience. Whether opting for an apartment or considering a luxury villa, comprehensive information is available to guide prospective buyers.

Dubai Real Estate Market Trends for Apartments and flats

It seems that the sales trends for flats in Dubai are changing rapidly. The demand for flats is increasing and prices are rising.

Studios in Dubai go for prices ranging from AED 160k to AED 2.1M, with the pricier ones situated in areas like Palm Jumeirah and The World Islands, while 1-bedroom flats cost an upwards of AED 239k in Dubailand which can reach up to 6M in The World Islands. With regard to 2 BHKs, these are available for more than AED 440k in Liwan and above AED 720k in Dubai Marina. Furthermore, the price of a 3-bed apartment starts at around AED 680k in Dubai Silicon Oasis and can soar as high as AED 58M in Palm Jumeirah. When it comes to 4-bedroom apartments, Business Bay is home to the most expensive one that's priced at AED 37M. Lastly, 5-bedroom flats for sale range between AED 2.1M and AED 45M with the majority located at Downtown Dubai.

The return on investment for an apartment for sale in Dubai can be very rewarding. Purchases of properties here often result in high returns. Investing in Apartment for Sale in Dubai because this area can be a very lucrative choice.

Dubai is renowned for providing strong rental yields to those looking to invest in the emirate. Among the areas offering the most attractive returns are International City (with a ROI of 9%), Dubai Silicon Oasis (8.2%) and Jumeirah Lake Towers (7.9%). Property buyers can also obtain decent rates of return in Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina and Palm Jumeirah with all areas having an ROI of more than 5.4%.

Apartment for Sale in Dubai, how to do?

Buying an apartment in Dubai entails a few steps. Firstly, you should research the properties available on the market and narrow down your choices to the ones that fit your criteria. Next, you should arrange for viewing appointments to gain a more detailed insight into the apartments you are interested in. Finally, when making an offer on your chosen property, it's best to be aware of the procedures involved in making a purchase.

Investing in an apartment in Dubai starts with finding the property that suits your needs and budget. Zeekeez has a range of filter options to help you narrow down your search, just select Apartment for Sale in Dubai and browse thousands of listings. Expats can purchase apartments in freehold locations regardless of nationality. Following selection, it is essential for both parties to draft, sign, and agree on terms for the sale via a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). An initial deposit will be expected from the buyer, usually amounting to 5-25% of the value. After receiving a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the developer, the Dubai Land Department (DLD) then carries out an ownership transfer. If an investor is applying for financing through a mortgage, they must approach relevant banks.

Apartment for Sale in Dubai : What are the additional costs?

Finding an apartment for sale in Dubai involves a number of expenses one needs to consider, Zeekeez advised you by sharing some tips. These costs may include the purchase price, registration charges, agents' fees, plus utility deposits, and maintenance fees.

According to the DLD regulations, all buyers of property must pay a 4% registration fee of the property's value, regardless if it is ready or off-plan. In addition to the 4%, administrative fees may be charged and can reach up to AED 5k. The customary commission for a broker/real estate agent is 2%, however, this can be discussed with your agent. If conveyancing services are employed, that fee applies as well and is generally 1% of the property value. Additionally, since the implementation of VAT in 2018, all charges previously mentioned are subject to a 5% VAT charge.

If you are thinking of buying a flat in Dubai, remember to take into account annual service charges. Prorated by the year, these fees are payable to the developer, who is regulated by the DLD in order to ensure both parties rights are protected. Depending on the building's features and location, service charges vary between AED 10-45 per square foot.

Those looking for Apartment for Sale in Dubai are likely to face a separate charge for the air-conditioning and cooling of the unit, which is typically handled by the owner and payable on a month-to-month basis. Emicool and Empower are the two main suppliers of district cooling in the city. You can also think to rent an apartment in Dubai.

Invest in a DXB Apartment

Dubai's real estate market boasts a variety of apartments, thanks to numerous new developments. Apartments present a sound investment opportunity, offering an affordable entry point for first-time investors with limited risks. Additionally, cashed-up investors can leverage the opportunity to buy multiple apartments, creating a diversified portfolio. Buying-to-let remains a lucrative investment, with rentals remaining popular among buyers.

Choose from a wide selection of luxury and budget apartments for sale in Dubai, including lofts, studios, 1 BHK, 2 BHK, or larger flats. Beyond traditional single-floor units, speciality duplexes, triplexes, and luxury penthouses with private pools are also available in DXB. Now you are well informed to find an apartment for sale in Dubai. Yallah!

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