Foreign Buyer’s Guide to Investing in Abu Dhabi in 2025

Let’s now break down the process into easy steps.

Step 1: Understand Where You Can Buy

As a foreign buyer, you can only buy in designated areas. These are called freehold or investment zones.

Here are some popular areas:

• Yas Island – Close to theme parks, beach clubs, and malls.
• Saadiyat Island – Known for luxury villas, museums, and private beaches.
• Al Reem Island – A favorite for high-rise apartments and city views.
• Al Raha Beach – Great for waterfront living.
• Masdar City – Eco-friendly and modern.

These zones allow full ownership, meaning you can sell, rent, or live in the property as you wish.

Step 2: Decide Your Purpose

Ask yourself:
Are you buying to live in or as an investment?

• To Live: Choose a home that fits your lifestyle. Look for nearby schools, transport, shops.
• To Invest: Focus on high-demand areas with good rental income.    

Also decide your budget. Prices vary depending on the area, size, and type of property.

Step 3: Choose a Trusted Real Estate Agent

Don’t go solo. A licensed real estate agent will help you:

• Find the best property
• Explain legal steps
• Negotiate prices
• Avoid scams

Make sure the agent is approved by the Department of Municipalities and Transport (ADREC). You can check their license online.

Step 4: Explore Properties

Now comes the fun part – house hunting!

• Visit show villas or model apartments
• Take virtual tours (many developers offer this online)
• Ask about payment plans, service charges, and community features

Tip: If it’s an off-plan property (not built yet), check the developer’s reputation. Choose well-known developers like Aldar, Bloom, Modon or Imkan.

Step 5: Check All Documents

Before you buy anything, review the important papers:

• Title deed (if ready property)
• Sales and Purchase Agreement (SPA)
• Project registration (for off-plan)
• Floor plan and specifications

Your agent or legal advisor can help you understand these documents.

Step 6: Make an Offer and Pay the Fees

Once you choose your property:

1. Make an official offer
2. Sign the Sales and Purchase Agreement
3. Pay the required fees

Typical costs include:

• Deposit: Usually 5% to 10%
• Registration Fee: 2% of the property value
• Agency Fee: Around 2%
• NOC Fee (if secondary market): Between AED 500–5,000

Note: Off-plan properties may offer flexible payment plans. For example, 60% during construction and 40% on handover.

Step 7: Finalize the Sale

If you’re buying a ready property, here’s what happens:

• Transfer of ownership happens at TAMM (Abu Dhabi government service center)
• You pay the remaining amount
• You get the title deed in your name

If it’s off-plan, you’ll receive a contract from the developer. The title deed will be given once the project is completed.

Step 8: What Happens After Purchase?

Once the property is yours, you can:

• Move in (if ready)
• Rent it out (through an agent or short-term rental apps)
• Sell it later for profit

Also, you’ll need to:

• Pay community fees (for maintenance)
• Set up utilities (water, electricity, internet)

If you’re not living in Abu Dhabi, you can hire a property manager to handle everything.