What’s the Minimum Budget Needed to Buy Property in Dubai?

INSIGHTS & TIPS, Off-Plan Properties

When you think about investing in real estate, Dubai comes at the top of the list as it provides the highest return on investments. Whether you want to buy an exotic apartment or an off-plan property in Dubai, even if you’re in the market for a pocket-friendly studio, there’s something for everyone.

But how much budget must I plan to buy a property in Dubai? With our local Dubai real agents, we have outlined the budget needed to purchase the property in Dubai while covering all the necessary details and aspects you want to know.

Navigating Dubai's Real Estate Market

It is vital to note upfront the numbers, which is why we start with the basics. In Dubai, you can find everything, from inexpensive studios to high-end villas and everything in between. Where you set the funds aside for the property will rely significantly on the following:

  1. Price: Dubai Marina, Downtown Dubai, and Palm Jumeirah are well known for their luxurious living standards, so the price range is far more than in other areas.
  2. Type Of Property: Townhouses or villas are more expensive than apartments. If you are on a budget, studio apartments would be the most suitable choice.
  3. Size: Properties that are large in terms of size are also expensive.
  4. Amenities: Properties with swimming pools, gyms, and high-level security tend to be expensive.
  5. Developer: Well-known developers usually charge more due to their brand value and high quality.
  6. Market Negatives: Real estate prices are subject to change based on the market supply and demand and economic conditions.

What Budget Do You Need to Buy a Studio Apartment?

For someone looking for the bare minimum, a studio apartment in the less expensive parts of Dubai is ideal. Here is why: 

  1. Property Price: Studio apartments in International City, Dubai Land, and Discovery Gardens are between AED 400,000 and AED 500,000. While these areas are not too close to the city center, they are well connected and have all the basic amenities.
  2. Registration Fees (DLD): Dubai charges a registration fee of 4% on the purchase price. This means when a property is registered for AED 400,000, the fee automatically increases to AED 16,000.
  3. Admin Fees (DLD): The admin fee charged by DLD is around AED 2000.
  4. Mortgage Registration Fee (if applicable): For purchasing a house on loan, the charge for mortgage registration is 0.25% plus AED 290. This will be charged to your mortgage.
  5. Agency Fees: An agent dealing with the purchase of AED 400,000 can expect to sell the property for around AED 8,000.
  6. Mortgage Fees (If You Get a Loan): If you’re borrowing money with a mortgage, there are some extra costs to be aware of. Things like a processing fee to set up the loan, a valuation fee to assess the property’s worth, and an arrangement fee can add up. You might expect to pay around 1-2% of the total amount you’re borrowing in these fees.
  7. Legal Fees (Optional): It’s unnecessary, but getting a lawyer to review the paperwork before buying is smart. They can spot anything you might miss. Budget around AED 5,000 to AED 10,000 if you decide to go this route.
Minimum Budget Needed to Buy Property in Dubai

Things That Can Exceed the Budget

The above minimum budget is assumed to cover only the most basic details. The following are some bumps that may get a little too overboard: 

  1. Location: Purchasing property in places such as Dubai Marina, Downtown Dubai, or Palm Jumeirah can increase costs twice or thrice. For a studio in these places, one should expect to spend above AED 1 million (roughly $272,000).
  2. More Significant Properties: Like a studio, one-bedroom apartments are usually sold at a higher price. A two-bedroom apartment will naturally even add some extra. Apartments are modest when compared to the other townhouses and villas. These tend to be pricier.
  3. Location and other additional amenities can significantly affect the cost. However, a one-bedroom apartment can cost you between AED 800,000- AED 1,200,000, and a two-bedroom apartment can cost you between AED 1,500,000 – AED 2,500,000.
  4. Ready Properties Versus Off-Plan: Although off-plan properties tend to come at a low relative starting price and favorable payment plans, there are issues, such as delayed construction, that accompany this risk.

With ready properties, a bigger deposit is required upfront. However, you can move into the property immediately.

For example, purchasing property, like real estate, allows for a partial payment of 20 to 30% and the rest of the payment to be spread over 2-5 years. This is ideal for investment purposes.

Other Costs That Should Be Acknowledged

Service Charges: These are rolling fees every year to the building management for maintenance, security, and cleaning of the general areas of the property. Different buildings and developments will hence charge differently.

Utilities: The costs of electricity, water, and internet can significantly be reduced during summer. There is no annual property tax in Dubai, so there is no need to allocate an amount for that. Some policies cover homes for damage incurred, theft, and loss, so it’s best to get it.

Mortgage Payments (If Applicable): In the case of loans, include the interest, which is paid along with the principal amount every month.

Financing Your Purchase: Mortgages in Dubai

A lot of buyers use a mortgage to purchase a Dubai property. Here are the main points to consider:

Eligibility: A bank’s initial down payment requirement is usually 20% for UAE residents and 25% for non-residents. A bank will also examine your income, credit score, and employment.

Interest Rates: In Dubai, mortgage interest rates are typically based on the bank, the amount of the loan, and the current market situation. There is a lot of competition, so rates can be lower if you look around.

Loan Term: A mortgage is typically provided for 25 years.

Sticking to Your Budget: Suggestions

Research! Ensure you check the different types of properties in various locations.

Mortgage Pre-Approval: It will guide you on how much you can spend, so it is advisable to obtain pre-approval.

Don’t hesitate to bargain the cost. Whatever the seller or developer quotes, convince them of the price you think is equitable.

Know Your Limit: Falling into the extensive debt trap and buying overly priced properties is imprudent, so be sensible.

If you want to purchase property in Dubai, you should keep in mind that at least AED 450,000 to AED 550,000 would be the least needed to buy a small furnished studio within Dubai’s affordable suburbs. This is only a baseline expense because the ultimate amount you must pay will most likely reflect your personal choices, such as area, type of property, and how you intend to finance it. Buying property in Dubai can be achieved with proper budgeting and cost management.

How GRD Off Plan Can Help You Find the Right Off-Plan Property

Dubai’s real estate market can be challenging, especially for first-time investors interested in purchasing Dubai investment properties. GRD Off Plan can assist you in finding the right property under development and streamline the buying process. The website has a selection of off-plan properties across Dubai, and filters used on the website make it simple to look through various developments by location, type, price range, etc. Start browsing today and take the first step towards owning a property in Dubai’s flourishing real estate market.