Steps to Buy Property in Dubai from China [2025]

Dubai’s blend of tax-free income, global connectivity, and investor-friendly laws has made it a favorite among global real estate buyers — and Chinese investors are rapidly climbing the ranks. With full local ownership rights and high rental yields, it’s no wonder Dubai is drawing attention from China’s savvy investors. This guide will walk you through how to buy property in Dubai from China, covering everything from legalities and documentation to residency benefits and investment tactics.

Why Dubai Attracts Chinese Property Buyers

Dubai’s real estate market offers several perks that resonate strongly with Chinese investors:

No property, income, or capital gains tax — maximizing ROI Dao Insights
High rental yields, often ranging between 5–10%
Fast and transparent ownership processes through the Dubai Land Department (DLD)
Long-term residency eligibility via Golden Visa for investors spending ≥ AED 2 million
Direct flights and a cosmopolitan lifestyle make Dubai highly accessible for Chinese investors Dao Insights+5Tekce+5houselux.com+5

In 2024, Chinese nationals accounted for the fourth-largest share of property transactions in Dubai, contributing around 8% of total volume

Can Chinese Nationals Legally Buy Property in Dubai?

Yes. Dubai allows 100% foreign ownership in designated freehold areas, including for Chinese nationals — they enjoy equal property ownership rights as UAE citizens

Documents Required to Buy Property in Dubai from China

To complete your purchase, prepare:

A valid Chinese passport, translated into Arabic if needed
Proof of funds (bank statements covering the last six months)
Signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) or Sale Purchase Agreement (SPA)
For mortgages: income statements, credit history, and wealth declaration Wasl
If applicable: DLD mortgage permit

Top Freehold Areas for Chinese Buyers

Popular Dubai neighborhoods known for attractive returns and facilities include:

Downtown Dubai
Dubai Marina
Palm Jumeirah
Business Bay
Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC)
Dubai Sports City South

These zones allow full foreign property ownership and are serviced by robust legal frameworks.

Step-by-Step Buying Process

Choose a property (off-plan or ready-to-move) through trusted portals or agents.
Sign an MoU, and typically pay a 10% deposit
For off-plan purchases, obtain an Oqood certificate to secure your claim
Register the transaction at Dubai Land Department (DLD).
Pay applicable fees — usually 4% DLD transfer fee, plus agency and admin charges
Receive your Title Deed, establishing full legal ownership.

Off‑Plan vs Ready Properties

Off-plan: Usually 15–20% cheaper, payment in installments, higher ROI potential but with completion risk
Ready-to-move: Higher price, but immediate rental income and no uncertainty.

Transferring Funds from China to Dubai

China has strict outbound capital controls. Legal methods include:

Using SAFE-approved bank channels
Remittances through regulated foreign exchange platforms

Always confirm compliance with Chinese and UAE regulations to avoid legal complications

Mortgage Availability for Chinese Nationals

Getting a mortgage in Dubai as a non-resident can be complex. Requirements typically include:

Significant down payment (50–70%)
Proof of income and credit history
DLD permits and notarization
However, many Chinese investors choose to pay in cash to avoid lending constraints

Residency via Golden Visa

Investing AED 2 million or more in property qualifies you for a 10-year Golden Visa, granting residency rights for you and your family

Avoiding Scams & Ensuring Safe Transactions

Always work with RERA-licensed agents and reputable developers
Avoid cash-only transactions — use escrow accounts and DLD-approved trustees
Verify developer track records and official documentation before paying any deposit

Rental Returns and Property Management

Dubai offers rental yields typically between 5–10%, depending on location and property type China BriefingTekce.

Property management firms simplify renting from abroad by handling tenants, maintenance, and lease registration (EJARI) Wikipedia.

Repatriating Sale Proceeds to China

After selling, you can legally repatriate profits to China. Be sure to:

Declare gains per Chinese tax laws
Use official banking channels
Comply with both UAE exit procedures and Chinese importing regulations Tekce.

Market Outlook & Why Invest in 2025

Dubai continues to thrive with foreign real estate activity. In 2024 alone:

180,900 real estate transactions worth over USD 142 billion were recorded
Foreign ownership constitutes about 43% of the residential property value

This robust market, backed by favorable policies and global investor confidence, makes 2025 a great time to invest.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy property without visiting Dubai?
Yes—with power of attorney and digital tools, many investors complete purchases remotely Tekce.

Are there taxes on rental income or resale gains?
No, Dubai imposes no property, rental, or capital gains taxes. However, Chinese tax declarations may apply

Can I own multiple properties?
Yes, there’s no limit on the number of properties foreign nationals, including Chinese, can own.

Dubai’s real estate landscape offers a seamless, high-reward opportunity for Chinese investors: tax-free income, secure legal structures, and residency options via property investment. By following proper channels—using licensed agents, complying with documentation requirements, and safeguarding transactions—Chinese buyers can confidently tap into one of the world’s most dynamic property markets.