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Glidai Properties
Glidai Properties
Resource center

Free knowledge.
Before you decide.

We've gathered the guides, tools, and concepts that turn you into a knowledgeable investor — even if you decide in the end that Dubai isn't for you.

Downloadable guides

Six booklets, free of charge.

Each guide is emailed after you leave your details. No spam — opt out any time.

The Complete Guide to Investing in Dubai Real EstatePDF · 32 p.Beginner

The Complete Guide to Investing in Dubai Real Estate

32 pages covering everything an international investor should know before a first purchase: process, regulation, taxation and choosing the right area.

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Dubai Area Guide: Where to InvestPDF · 24 p.Beginner

Dubai Area Guide: Where to Invest

A comparative overview of Dubai's key investment areas — including Marina, Downtown, Palm Jumeirah and Business Bay — with yields, demand and tenant profiles.

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International Tax Checklist: UAE + Your Home CountryPDF · 18 p.Tax

International Tax Checklist: UAE + Your Home Country

A practical checklist for discussing cross-border ownership, foreign income reporting and tax considerations with your qualified tax advisor.

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Golden Visa Roadmap — Step by StepPDF · 22 p.Visa

Golden Visa Roadmap — Step by Step

Everything you need to understand the 10-year Golden Visa process: eligibility, documents, timelines and practical steps.

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ROI Excel Model — Custom ScenariosExcelLeveraged Investment

ROI Excel Model — Custom Scenarios

An editable spreadsheet with multiple investment scenarios, including cash, leveraged purchase, short-term rental, long-term rental and 3/5/10-year exit scenarios.

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10 Red Flags in an Off-Plan DealPDF · 14 p.Advanced

10 Red Flags in an Off-Plan Deal

What to check before signing: developer track record, escrow structure, cancellation clauses, surrounding supply and other factors investors often miss.

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Tools

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ROI Calculator

Enter your budget, target area and holding period to estimate cash flow and cumulative return.

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Project Comparison

Filter projects by yield, price, developer and area, then compare opportunities side by side.

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Client Stories

Real case studies covering investment size, returns, challenges and outcomes.

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Glossary

Ten terms you'll meet in every deal.

FreeholdFreehold
Full ownership of a property and the land beneath it, with no expiry date. Since 2002, Dubai has allowed this for foreigners in approximately 50 designated areas.
LeaseholdLeasehold
The right to use a property for a fixed period (typically 30–99 years), while ownership remains with the landowner. Less common in foreign investments.
Off-PlanOff-plan
The purchase of a property before construction is complete, typically directly from the developer, with a staged payment plan tied to physical construction milestones.
EscrowEscrow
A trust account in which buyers' funds are held in Off-plan projects until milestones are approved by the regulator (RERA).
RERA
Real Estate Regulatory Agency — the regulatory authority of the Dubai real estate market, responsible for project registration, oversight of developers, and contracts.
DLD
Dubai Land Department — the government authority managing ownership registrations, transfers, and registration fees (4% of the property value).
FAQ

Answers to the most common questions.

Can foreign investors buy real estate in Dubai?+

Yes. Since 2002, foreign investors can purchase full ownership (Freehold) in designated areas of Dubai. Our support includes all required documents, translations, and DLD approvals.

What is the expected return on real estate in Dubai?+

Average gross return of 6%-9% per year from rental income, plus capital appreciation of 5%-12% depending on the area and property type. The market benefits from high rental demand driven by tourism and business relocation.

Do you pay taxes on an investment in Dubai?+

Tax obligations outside the UAE depend on your country of residence and individual circumstances. We recommend consulting a qualified tax advisor in your home jurisdiction.

What is the Golden Visa?+

A 10-year visa granted to investors who have purchased property/properties with a total value of 2 million AED (approximately $545,000). The visa grants residency rights to you and your immediate family members and does not require physical relocation to Dubai.

Are my funds protected in an off-plan transaction?+

Yes. The Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA) requires the developer to deposit all buyer payments into a regulatory escrow account. The funds are released to the developer only according to approved construction milestones.

How do I get started?+

It begins with a complimentary consultation. We learn what you're looking for—from budget to investment horizon—and present 2-3 suitable opportunities. If you choose to proceed, we guide you every step of the way, from selection through handover and ongoing management.

What is the typical timeline for purchasing a property in Dubai as a foreign investor?+

The process takes 2-4 weeks from offer acceptance to title deed transfer. You'll need a passport copy, Emirates ID (if resident), and proof of funds. Payment is typically via bank transfer or manager's cheque, with the DLD transfer completed at a Trustee Office or through an approved conveyancer.

How do payment plans for off-plan properties work and what protections exist?+

Developers offer structured payment plans—typically 20% down payment, 60-70% during construction, 10% on handover. All funds are transferred to an escrow account regulated by RERA, and released only when construction milestones are verified. This protects buyers in case a developer fails or delays.

What are the ongoing costs beyond the purchase price?+

Expect a 4% DLD transfer fee at purchase, plus annual service charges (AED 10-25 per sqm depending on the development and amenities). Chiller fees, DEWA bills, and 5% property management fees apply if you rent out. There is no annual property tax or municipal tax on residential properties.

Is it possible to finance a property purchase in Dubai, and what are the typical terms?+

Foreign buyers can obtain mortgages up to 50-75% LTV (depending on property value and bank). Interest rates currently range between 4.5-6.5% with terms of 15-25 years. Most investors transfer funds directly due to favorable exchange rates and to avoid interest costs.

What are the real rental yields by area and property type?+

Yields vary: JVC and International City yield 7-9%, Dubai Marina and JBR 5-6%, Downtown 4-5%. Studios and one-bedroom apartments typically generate higher yield percentages. Short-term rental (Airbnb) can increase gross yield by 2-3% but requires active management and Airbnb permits.

How are rental income and capital gains taxed for uk residents?+

Tax obligations outside the UAE depend on your country of residence and individual circumstances. We recommend consulting a qualified tax advisor in your home jurisdiction.

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