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Off-Plan Investments UAE

We specialise in sourcing and securing high-quality off-plan opportunities across Dubai and the wider UAE, supporting investors seeking capital growth and long-term value in tax-efficient markets.

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What does it mean to buy off-plan property?

Buying off-plan means purchasing a property before construction is complete. 

In the UAE, off-plan purchases are common and typically provide early access to new developments, including preferred units, layouts and locations. Investors often benefit from staged payment plans during construction and exposure to potential price growth before completion.

Off-plan property is widely used by investors seeking modern, well-specified homes with strong rental appeal and relatively hands-off ownership once completed.

Our current off-plan developments in the UAE & Dubai

Siniya Island, Umm Al Quwain

A private island community with beachfront living and integrated amenities.

Available now, completing 2028
From AED 1.4m

Discover Siniya Island

Sobha Central, Dubai

A centrally positioned development with direct access on and off the Sheikh Zayed Road.

Available now, completing 2029
From AED 1.4m

Discover Sobha Centre

Sobha Elwood, Dubai

A nature-first, low-density villa community with stunning open space

Available now, completing 2027/28
From AED 9.9m

Discover Sobha Elwood

Binghatti Ghost, Dubai

A regeneration-led development in a well-connected location close to Downtown Dubai.

Available now, completing Q1 2026
From AED 800,000

Discover Binghatti Ghost

Binghatti Vintage, Dubai

Modern apartments in one of Dubai's most in-demand, growth locations

Available now, completing Q1 2027
From AED 675,000

Discover Binghatti Vintage

Several exciting UAE developments not listed here

We're working with UAE developers on a number of properties not listed here - get in touch to find a project aligned to your goals.

Get in touch

Why is buying off-plan in the UAE so attractive for investors?

The UAE, and Dubai in particular, has established itself as a global property market supported by population growth, international demand and ongoing investment in infrastructure and lifestyle-led development.

Price certainty with potential for early capital growth
Securing a property at reservation allows investors to fix the purchase price. In a rising market, values may increase during the construction period.

Strong rental demand
Dubai’s rental market benefits from a large expatriate population, limited long-term housing supply in key areas, and demand for high-quality, modern homes.

Tax-efficient ownership
The UAE offers a favourable tax environment, with no income tax on rental income, no capital gains tax, no stamp duty equivalent, and no inheritance tax.

High-quality new-build stock
Off-plan developments in the UAE are typically delivered to a high specification, often within integrated communities offering amenities that support rental demand and long-term value.

Residency incentives
Property investment of AED 2 million or more qualifies investors for a 10-year UAE Golden Visa, adding a residency benefit alongside the investment case.

7–10%

Net yield

Typical of UAE properties

20%

Low deposits

And flexible payment plans

AED 2m

Golden Visa

Applicable for ten years to investors

Book a Call Now

Tell us about your UAE investment goals and we can source you the perfect off-plan property

Book a Call
Tom Jewell, Founder of Source Investments

Tom Jewell

Founder

Ollie Smith, Managing Director at Source Investments

Ollie Smith

Managing Director

Key off-plan developers in Dubai and the UAE

We work closely with established UAE developers and maintain direct relationships that provide early visibility of launches, cancellations and preferred units.

Sobha Realty
Known for build quality and finish, Sobha focuses on master-planned communities and premium residential developments, particularly in well-connected locations.

Emaar
One of the UAE’s most established developers, responsible for major districts including Downtown Dubai, with a track record of integrated community delivery.

DAMAC
A volume developer delivering large-scale lifestyle communities, often at more accessible price points, with a strong focus on amenities and investor demand.

Binghatti
A high-output developer recognised for distinctive architecture and large residential schemes, often positioned in emerging growth areas.

How do you buy an off-plan property in the UAE?

Reservation. A 2% fee is paid to reserve the property and begin legals. Deposits are typically 20%, the remaining 18% should be sent shortly after to secure the property.

Sales Purchase Agreement.
 The SPA is issued for the buyer to sign to fully secure the property. In Dubai, a 4% DLD fee applies.

Staged Payments.
 Payments are made throughout the construction period in line with the agreed payment plan, which is confirmed at the outset.

Financing.
 Mortgage applications are submitted a few months prior to completion. Working with an experienced broker can help identify suitable options.

Completion.
 On handover, the property can be prepared for rental or personal use.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Buying Eligibility & Basics

Can UK residents buy property in the UAE?

Yes. UK residents can buy property in designated foreign-ownership areas in the UAE, including Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

Do I need a UAE visa to buy property?

No. A UAE visa is not required to purchase off-plan property.

Can I buy off-plan even if I never plan to live in the UAE?

Yes. This is very common. Most off-plan buyers are overseas investors.

2. Golden Visa - What to Know

What is the UAE Golden Visa?

The Golden Visa is a long-term UAE residency visa (typically 10 years). For property buyers, it is linked to property value, not rental income.

What is the property threshold?

Currently AED 2 million.

Key points:
• The AED 2m relates to the property value, not how much cash has been paid
• You do not need to have paid AED 2m upfront
• Eligibility is assessed when you apply, not at reservation
• The AED 2m threshold can be met across one or more properties, provided the
total qualifying value reaches the required amount

Do off-plan purchases qualify?

It depends on the emirate.

• Dubai: Off-plan properties may qualify, usually assessed later in the build once a significant proportion has been paid (50%+).
• Abu Dhabi: The approach is more conservative. In most cases, the property needs to be completed and registered before eligibility is considered.

Should I plan my purchase around the Golden Visa?

For most buyers, no. It is best viewed as a potential upside, not a reason to structure or choose a purchase upfront.

Where we can assist: We introduce specialist advisors if and when residency becomes relevant.

3. Off-Plan Purchases

What does “off-plan” mean?

Off-plan means buying a property before it is completed, directly from a developer, with payments made in stages during construction.

How do off-plan payment plans usually work?

Off-plan properties are sold with staged payment plans linked to construction.

Most developers require around 40–70% to be paid during construction, with the remaining balance due on completion. The exact structure varies by developer and is confirmed before reservation.

How are my payments protected?

Payments are made into a regulated developer escrow account, with funds released in line with construction progress.

What happens if a project is delayed?

Delays can occur. Contract terms set out timelines and rights, which is why developer track record matters.

Can I sell before completion?

Often yes, subject to developer rules, how much has been paid, and market conditions.

4. Payments, Banking & Moving Money

Do I need a UAE bank account?

Usually no. Most off-plan purchases are completed without a UAE bank account.

When can I open a UAE bank account and what do I need?

In most cases, UK buyers cannot open a UAE personal bank account unless they are UAE residents. Buying a property alone does not entitle a buyer to a UAE bank account.

In practice:

  • Most non-resident buyers do not need a UAE bank account
  • Rental income can be paid to an overseas account or handled via a property manager
  • Accounts are typically opened only if a buyer later becomes a resident or sets up a UAE company

Where we can assist: We introduce specialist advisors for residency, company setup and banking where appropriate.

How do UK buyers usually pay?

Typically via international bank transfer from the UK. Banks may request source-of-funds information.

Can I pay using physical cash?

In limited cases, yes. Some developers accept physical cash, subject to their own checks. Payments must still go to official developer or escrow accounts.

Can cryptocurrency be used?

In limited cases, yes, subject to developer criteria and conversion to fiat.

Can I move money back to the UK later?

Yes. Rental income and sale proceeds can usually be transferred overseas, subject to standard banking checks.

How do I avoid payment fraud?

Only send funds to official developer or escrow accounts shown on formal payment instructions.

Who should I use for foreign exchange (FX)?

Your bank can handle international transfers and currency exchange. Some buyers choose a specialist FX provider, which may offer more competitive rates and support with larger transfers.

Where we can assist: We can introduce a trusted FX partner if preferred.

5. Ownership and Structure

Should I buy personally or through a company?

Most first-time off-plan buyers purchase in their personal name, as it is usually the simplest option.

When does company ownership become relevant?

Typically when buyers plan to:

  • buy multiple properties
  • operate more actively
  • retain income within a UAE structure

Do I need to decide this upfront?

No. Most buyers keep the initial purchase simple and review structure later.

Can ownership structure be changed later?

Sometimes, but this can involve additional cost and planning.

Important note: If buying through a company, it must be a UAE-registered company. Foreign (non-UAE) companies cannot hold UAE residential property.

Can I buy jointly?

Yes. Joint ownership with a spouse, family member or business partner is common.

6. Mortgages & Finance

Can UK buyers get a mortgage on UAE property?

Yes, in many cases.

Watch: How to Finance Property in the UAE as a UK Buyer, with mortgage specialist Gareth Humes.

How much can a non-resident usually borrow?

As a general guide, up to around 65% loan-to-value for non-residents. This can vary by lender and property.

When should I think about mortgages?

Mortgages are usually completed later in the build or near handover. However, it is sensible to have an early conversation to understand how lenders may view your position, even if borrowing is not needed for some time.

How do UAE mortgages typically work for UK buyers?

UAE mortgages are typically repayment mortgages, not interest-only. Lenders assess the buyer’s personal financial position (income, liabilities, credit profile).

 

Where we can assist: We introduce specialist mortgage advisors experienced with UK buyers.

7. Buying Fees & One-Off Costs

Are there any additional costs when purchasing?

Yes, buyers should budget for the following one-off fees, in addition to the purchase price:

Government registration:
• Dubai: 4% DLD - paid at SPA / early contract stage
• Abu Dhabi: 2% registration - paid at SPA / early contract stage
• Umm Al Quwain (UAQ): 4% registration - typically paid on completion

Developer paperwork:
• SPA fee: usually AED 1,000-5,000 (developer dependent)

8. Renting, Management & Completion

Can I rent the property once completed?

Yes, once handover is complete.

Who manages the property if I live in the UK?

Most overseas owners use a local managing agent.

Where we can assist: We introduce trusted property managers and help set this up.

What ongoing costs should I expect?

Typically service charges, utilities and management fees.

Do I need to be in the UAE to buy or sell?

Not usually. Purchases and resales can be handled remotely using authorised representatives.

Our Key Contacts

Please contact the team for a personal introduction.

Virtuzone, Nadia Simonenko
UAE company formation, residency visas, tax and banking support.

Interlife, Gareth Hume
UAE mortgage specialist for UK and international buyers.

UK Landlord Tax, Simon Thandi
UK tax specialist advising on UK tax considerations for overseas property ownership.

Why trust Source Investments for buying off-plan in the UAE?

House icon

Specialist expertise

We focus on off-plan property and understand the nuances of UAE developments, payment plans and regulatory requirements.

End-to-end support

From sourcing and negotiation through to financing and completion, we manage the entire process.

Trusted network of contacts

We work only with established developers and vetted legal, finance and operational partners on the ground.

Supporting global investors

We regularly advise overseas clients navigating UAE property, finance and ownership structures.

Join 5,000 investors who partner with Source Investments to buy off-plan property with confidence

★★★★★

The entire team turned what could have been a stressful experience into an incredibly smooth and positive journey.

I. Shaikh

★★★★★

Time and again, their professionalism and attentiveness have blown us away.

M. Messolonghitis

★★★★★

Source’s under-promise and over-deliver mentality was a breath of fresh air when speaking to other investment companies to help me grow my portfolio.

G. Strang

Ready to invest in an off-plan property in Dubai / UAE?

020 8895 6128 [email protected]

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