Dubai’s real estate market is one of the most attractive global investment destinations — and many French citizens are exploring property ownership there. The good news? Yes — French citizens can buy property in Dubai. But there are specific rules, opportunities, and considerations to understand before diving in.
🇦🇪 1. Legal Framework: Foreign Ownership in Dubai
Foreign nationals, including French citizens, are legally permitted to buy and own real estate in Dubai without citizenship or UAE residency. What matters most is that the property is in a designated freehold area — these zones allow 100% ownership rights in your own name.
✔ What This Means
- You can purchase residential or commercial property freehold with full ownership rights.
- In areas not designated as freehold, foreigners can still buy leasehold or usufruct rights (often up to 99 years).
- No requirement to live in the UAE or hold a visa before purchasing.
📍 2. Where Can French Buyers Buy in Dubai?
Freehold ownership is available in Dubai’s most popular communities, including:
- Downtown Dubai
- Palm Jumeirah
- Dubai Marina
- Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR)
- Business Bay
- Arabian Ranches
- Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC)
- Dubai Hills Estate
These areas are not just popular with foreigners — they often offer strong capital appreciation and rental demand.
🏡 3. How the Buying Process Works
📜 1. Find a Property
Partner with a RERA-licensed real estate agent to ensure you’re looking at legal, registered projects.
💼 2. Sign the Sales Contract
Once you’ve identified a property, you’ll sign a Sale & Purchase Agreement and pay a deposit.
📑 3. Register with the Dubai Land Department
The transaction must be officially registered with the Dubai Land Department (DLD) to make it legally binding.
💳 4. Transfer Funds
Funds are typically transferred by bank transfer (sometimes escrow for off-plan developments).
🔑 5. Receive Title Deed
Once registered, the DLD issues the Title Deed in your name — confirming ownership.
💸 4. Costs & Fees to Expect
While Dubai has no property tax or capital gains tax, buyers should budget for:
- Dubai Land Department Transfer Fee – typically around 4% of the purchase price.
- Developer NOC Fees – usually a small service charge.
- Real Estate Agent Commission – often around 2%.
- Mortgage & Trustee Fees – if you take financing, there may be additional charges.
🏠 5. Financing & Visa Benefits
💰 Mortgage Options
French citizens — regardless of residency — can often secure mortgages from UAE banks if financial criteria are met (income, credit history, etc.).
📍 Residency Through Property
Investing in Dubai real estate can also open doors to residency visas:
- 2-year renewable investor visa — for properties above AED 750,000 (~€190,000).
- 10-year Golden Visa — for investments of AED 2 million (~€500,000) and above.
This makes Dubai not only an investment hub but a potential base for long-term living.
📊 6. Tax Considerations for French Buyers
While Dubai itself has no property or capital gains tax, French tax residents may still need to consider local French tax laws like:
- French wealth tax (IFI) — may include foreign real estate holdings.
- French capital gains tax — potentially applicable on sale gains abroad.
Consulting a France-France tax advisor is essential for full compliance.
🧠 7. Tips for French Buyers
✅ Work with a licensed international real estate agent
✅ Confirm freehold status before signing any contract
✅ Plan for currency exchange and transfer logistics
✅ Explore visa opportunities tied to investment
🏁 Final Thoughts
Yes — French citizens can absolutely buy property in Dubai and enjoy full ownership in freehold areas without a residency requirement. Dubai’s transparent regulations, attractive costs, and strong market fundamentals make it a smart choice for both lifestyle and investment.
Whether you’re planning to buy a luxury home, rental investment, or pied-à-terre abroad, knowing the legal framework will help you make a confident decision.
