FAQs

Client Experiences

What Buyers Say After Working With Us

We think the most honest thing we can show you is “what our clients say, in their own words.” These are real people who came to us at different stages of their Dubai journey. Some knew exactly what they wanted. Some needed help figuring that out first.

Can foreigners buy property in Dubai?

Yes. Foreigners can fully own property (freehold) in designated areas like Downtown, Marina, DIFC, and Palm Jumeirah. You can sell, rent, or pass it on freely — no residency required.

What is a freehold property?

Freehold means full ownership of the property and land, with no time limit. Leasehold gives rights for a fixed term (up to ~99 years).

Can I buy jointly with someone?

Yes. You can co-own with a partner or spouse. Ownership shares are recorded on the title deed.

Do I need to be a UAE resident to buy?

No. You can buy remotely without a visa or bank account. If your property is worth AED 2M+, you may qualify for a Golden Visa.

Are there restrictions after buying?

Very few. You can rent, sell, or renovate (subject to building rules). Owner association rules may apply.

How does the buying process work?

Choose property Sign MOU + pay ~10% deposit Seller gets NOC Transfer at DLD Usually takes 4–8 weeks (faster for cash deals).

How long does it take?

Cash deal: ~2–4 weeks Mortgage: ~4–8 weeks Off-plan: depends on construction timeline

Can I buy with a mortgage?

Yes. Residents can borrow up to ~80%, non-residents ~50%, depending on the bank.

Do I need to be in Dubai?

No. You can appoint a Power of Attorney to complete the purchase on your behalf.

What is an MOU?

A legally binding agreement (Form F) outlining price, terms, and conditions. Signed with a ~10% deposit.

Is there property tax?

No property, income, capital gains, or inheritance tax. Only ongoing cost is service charges.

Are there ongoing costs?

Yes: Service charges Utilities (DEWA) Insurance (optional) Management fees (if renting)

What are the buying costs?

Expect ~6–7% total, including: 4% DLD fee ~2% agency fee Admin, NOC, and legal costs

What currency is used?

All transactions are in AED, which is pegged to the USD for stability.

What is the UAE Golden Visa?

A 10-year renewable residency through investment. You can sponsor family and don’t need to stay in the UAE full-time.

Can off-plan qualify?

Sometimes, depending on value and payment stage. Ready property is the safest route.

How much do I need to invest?

AED 2M+ in property. Must be registered in your name and usually completed (ready).

Can I work with a Golden Visa?

Yes. You can work, run a business, or be self-employed.

What types can I buy?

Offices, retail units, warehouses, mixed-use spaces, or entire buildings in freehold zones.

Ready vs off-plan — what’s the difference?

Ready: immediate use/rental Off-plan: pay in stages, lower entry price, potential appreciation (with some risk)

What rental yields can I expect?

Around 6–9% gross in prime areas. Net yield is usually 1–2% lower.

Is there a minimum price?

No legal minimum, but most commercial units start around AED 800K–1M. Golden Visa requires AED 2M+.

What does Kensington do?

We represent buyers only, focusing on commercial property. We guide you from search to purchase and beyond.

Can you help if I’m overseas?

Yes. Most clients are international. We handle everything remotely, including virtual viewings.

Is it too early to get in touch?

No. Early advice can save time and help you avoid mistakes.

Do you charge a fee?

Standard 2% agency fee. No extra advisory charges.

How fast do you respond?

Within 1 business day (often faster on WhatsApp).