Top 3 Off-Plan Projects in Dubai That Grant Residency for Arab Expats in Europe (2025)

If you’re an Arab living in Europe—Syrian, Palestinian, Iraqi, or otherwise—and you're dreaming of owning a home in Dubai and securing your family's future, you're not alone.

Real estate investment in Dubai is becoming a top choice among Arab expats across Europe. Why? Because it offers two unmatched advantages: high returns and legal residency. This honest, data-backed guide takes you through the best off-plan projects in Dubai that qualify you for residency, with full transparency on costs, returns, risks, and official legal procedures—so you can make your decision with total confidence.

Why Dubai Is the Ideal Place for Real Estate Investment

Dubai combines financial opportunity with legal security. It's politically stable, socially safe, and offers global-standard infrastructure. For Arab investors abroad, Dubai also feels culturally familiar and geographically accessible. Here's why thousands are choosing to buy property in Dubai:

1. One of the Highest Rental Yields in the World

Dubai properties offer annual rental yields between 6% and 9.5%, especially for apartments in high-demand areas
(Source: Al Etihad).
These numbers are significantly higher than in most European cities.
Reports show Dubai’s average ROI is around 8%—among the highest globally—especially thanks to the tax-free environment.

2. Zero Property Taxes

In Dubai, there are no annual property taxes, no capital gains taxes, and no income tax on rental income
(Source: Al Etihad).
You only pay a one-time registration fee when buying, and that's it. No yearly taxes like in Europe.

3. Residency for You and Your Family

When you buy a property that meets certain criteria, you become eligible for a residency visa in the UAE—either a renewable 2-year investor visa or a 10-year Golden Visa.
We'll break down all the requirements and steps in a section below. This means you and your family can live, study, and move freely in a safe, modern, and opportunity-rich city.

4. Strong Legal Protection for Investors

Dubai protects investors through strong laws and government oversight.
Every off-plan project must have an Escrow Account, supervised by the Dubai Land Department, where your payments are safely held until construction milestones are reached.
Also, every sale must be registered within 60 days in the official property registry—otherwise it is considered void
(Source: Chambers.com).

5. Global Lifestyle & Long-Term Growth

Dubai offers luxury living, international schools, top healthcare, and a multicultural society.
It is also planning to double its population by 2040, which will significantly boost demand—and property values.
Off-plan projects in developing areas offer high potential for capital appreciation in the coming years.

Top Off-Plan Projects in Dubai That Grant Residency (2025)

Below are some of the best current off-plan real estate projects in Dubai. These options cater to different budgets and allow investors to qualify for UAE residency upon purchase.

1. Skyz Tower by Danube in Arjan – Apartments Starting from AED 399,000

Located in the vibrant Arjan area near Arabian Ranches and attractions like Dubai Miracle Garden, Skyz Tower is a great choice for first-time investors on a limited budget. Developed by Danube Properties, this project offers:

• Studios from AED 399,000

• 1-bedroom apartments from AED 599,000

• 2-bedroom apartments from around AED 799,000
  Source: danubeproperties.com

With a low down payment and flexible plans (such as 1% monthly installments), owning a property becomes accessible to many Arab expats.

A 2-bedroom apartment here exceeds AED 750,000, which qualifies the buyer for a 2-year UAE investor visa
Source: dubailand.gov.ae.

The tower features modern architecture and family-friendly amenities like a swimming pool, gym, and landscaped gardens—ideal for living or renting out for passive income.

2. DAMAC Lagoons – Family Townhouses from AED 1.5 Million

DAMAC Lagoons offers a unique lifestyle concept inspired by Mediterranean cities. The community features artificial lagoons, sandy beaches, and lush surroundings. Highlights include:

• 3-bedroom townhouses starting from AED 1.5 million

• 4 and 5-bedroom units from ~AED 1.7 million and above
  Source: offplan-dubai.com

Most units exceed AED 750,000, which makes you eligible for a 2-year investor visa.
If you invest AED 2 million or more—either in one large unit or multiple—you can apply for the 10-year Golden Visa as well.
Source: dubailand.gov.ae

DAMAC is a well-known developer in Dubai, and the project is being delivered in phases starting in 2024. Living in DAMAC Lagoons means your family can enjoy a secure gated community with schools, shops, and full resort-style amenities.

3. Dubai Creek Harbour by Emaar – Waterfront Apartments from AED 1.7 Million

Dubai Creek Harbour, developed by Emaar, is a futuristic city-within-a-city along Dubai’s waterfront opposite Downtown. It features:

• Modern residential towers with iconic views of the skyline and Dubai Creek

• 1-bedroom apartments starting from AED 1.7–1.8 million
  Source: propertyfinder.ae

Apartments at this price point automatically qualify for a 2-year residency visa.
For buyers investing AED 2 million or more, you're eligible to apply for the Golden Visa as well.
Source: dubailand.gov.ae

Creek Harbour includes luxury amenities like swimming pools, gyms, parks, and access to the future Dubai Creek Tower—expected to be the tallest tower in the world. With Emaar, Dubai’s top developer, you're assured of top-tier quality and strong appreciation potential in a high-demand zone.

Note:

These are not the only options. Dubai has dozens of active off-plan projects across all price points. For example:

• Town Square by Nshama, Al Furjan, or Dubai South offer more budget-friendly units under AED 1 million.

• Premium projects in Downtown Dubai or Palm Jumeirah cater to luxury investors.

The key is to choose a project that matches your goals and budget, with guidance from a trusted advisor who knows the legal and market landscape.

Residency Through Property Ownership in Dubai: What You Need to Know (2025)

One of the most valuable benefits of investing in real estate in Dubai as an Arab expat is the opportunity to obtain legal residency for you and your family. The UAE Government and the Dubai Land Department have laid out clear conditions for investor visas. Here's what you need to know:

1) 2-Year Renewable Investor Visa

You become eligible for a 2-year renewable residency visa when purchasing a property or multiple properties in Dubai worth AED 750,000 or more at the time of purchase
(Source – Dubai Land Department).

This visa is often referred to as the “TASKEEN” investor visa. It allows you to legally reside in Dubai for two years, renewable as long as you retain ownership of the property.

Key conditions include:

• The property must be fully paid (not mortgaged),
  OR
  if mortgaged, at least 50% of the value or AED 750,000 (whichever is higher) must be paid, with a No Objection Certificate from the financing bank
  (Source – Dubai Land Department).

• Joint ownership by a married couple is allowed, and their combined ownership can meet the AED 750K requirement. A notarized marriage certificate must be provided
  (Source – Dubai Land Department).

• The visa holder can sponsor their spouse and children under the same residency.

This visa is ideal for mid-range investors who want the flexibility of living or traveling freely to Dubai with their family.

2) 10-Year Golden Visa (Long-Term Residency)

The Golden Visa is a long-term residence permit granted to real estate investors who own property worth AED 2,000,000 or more
(Source – Dubai Land Department).

Main benefits:

• No local sponsor (kafeel) required

• 10-year validity, renewable

• Ability to sponsor your spouse, children (no age limit), and even parents

• No exit-entry restrictions during the visa period

• Right to employ unlimited domestic help (maids, drivers, etc.)
  (Source – Dubai Land Department)

If the property is financed with a mortgage, you must submit proof (e.g., a bank letter) showing that at least AED 2 million has already been paid
(Source – Dubai Land Department).

Note: The applicant must be inside the UAE at the time of application, which means you should enter on a visit or tourist visa first, then apply for the Golden Visa through status adjustment.

Required Documents and Application Process

Once you’ve purchased the property and meet the financial threshold (AED 750K or AED 2M), you can apply for residency through the Dubai Land Department platform:

• For 2-year visa → via the TASKEEN Investor Visa Service

• For 10-year visa → via the Golden Visa Service
  (Source – Dubai Land Department)

You will need:

• Valid passport

• Personal photo

• Electronic title deed or signed sale contract

• Valid UAE health insurance policy

• Police clearance certificate (Good Conduct) from Dubai Police

• Marriage certificate and birth certificates for dependents (if sponsoring family)

Once submitted, DLD will coordinate with the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) to process your visa. The entire process typically takes 7 to 10 business days
(Source – Dubai Land Department).

After approval, you’ll receive your residency e-visa and can apply for your Emirates ID, open bank accounts, and access full resident services.

Visa Costs

• 2-Year Investor Visa (TASKEEN):
  Approx. AED 10,212, which includes medical tests, Emirates ID for 2 years, visa stamping, and administrative fees
  (Source – Dubai Land Department)

• 10-Year Golden Visa:
  Approx. AED 9,885, inclusive of all government fees, medical tests, ID issuance, and admin charges
  (Source – Dubai Land Department)

These fees are one-time, with no annual renewal fees unless the visa is extended.

Summary

Dubai law gives real estate investors two clear paths to UAE residency:

• 2-Year Visa: Ideal for those investing around AED 750,000+ in ready or off-plan property

• 10-Year Golden Visa: Best for those investing AED 2 million or more and seeking long-term stability

In both cases, the property becomes your sponsor. As long as you maintain ownership and meet the conditions, your residency remains valid—no employer or external sponsor needed.

This makes real estate one of the most reliable and secure ways to live, work, and grow your future in the UAE.

Expected Rental Yields and Financial Advantages

As a serious investor, one of your top questions is: Is Dubai real estate financially worth it? Fortunately, Dubai offers a rare combination of high annual rental income and long-term capital appreciation, outperforming many Western cities. Here are the key financial points:

High Rental Yields

Dubai consistently ranks among the top cities globally for rental yields. In 2023, average net returns on residential properties reached around 8% per year
(Source – Aletihad).

• Apartments: Between 6% and 9.5% annually depending on location and building type

• Villas: Between 4.5% and 8% annually
  (Source – Aletihad)

Compare this to cities in Europe or North America, where typical returns range between 3% and 5%. This makes Dubai a top performer for steady passive income, in addition to potential price growth over time.

Tax-Free Income Increases Your Net Profit

The UAE offers a tax-free environment for real estate investors:

• No annual property taxes

• No tax on rental income

• No capital gains tax on property resale
  (Source – Aletihad)

This significantly increases your net yield compared to Europe, where rental income is often taxed at rates between 20% and 30%.

Example:
If your Dubai apartment generates an 8% return, most of that is net income (minus service charges). In contrast, in Europe, the same income could be reduced to 5.5% or lower after tax deductions.

Long-Term Capital Growth Potential

Beyond rental income, property prices in Dubai are rising—fueled by strong demand and mega-projects:

• 2023 and 2024 saw record-breaking real estate transactions

• Prices are on an upward trend

• Major infrastructure expansions (Dubai Metro expansion, airport upgrades, Expo legacy, new tourism zones) continue to add value to key areas

• Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan aims to double the population, which means housing demand will stay strong

If you invest today in an off-plan project in a promising location, your asset value may significantly increase within a few years.

Turn Your Investment into a Long-Term Family Asset

From a personal finance perspective, owning a home in Dubai is also a smart long-term savings strategy.

Instead of spending high rent in Europe with no return, you can allocate your savings into an owned property:

• Use it when visiting Dubai

• Relocate later and live rent-free

• Rent it out and earn income in UAE dirhams (pegged to USD)

• Resell it later for profit

Many Arab expats now see Dubai real estate as a "Plan B"—a secure investment in an uncertain world.

Risks and Challenges of Off-Plan Investment — and How to Avoid Them

While Dubai offers exceptional real estate opportunities, no investment is risk-free. The key is awareness and preparation. Below are the real risks involved in buying off-plan properties in Dubai — and practical ways to manage them:

1. Risk of Project Delays or Cancellation

Some developers may face construction or financial delays. Rarely, a project may even be canceled. To reduce this risk:

• Always verify the developer's reputation and delivery history.

• Most importantly, Dubai law mandates that all off-plan projects use a secure Escrow Account
  (Source – Dubai Land Department).

This account holds all buyer payments and is only released in stages according to construction progress, monitored by RERA. If the project is delayed, most of your funds remain untouched. If the project is canceled by official decree, the Escrow funds are refunded to investors within 60 days
(Source – DLD).

If the developer fails to refund, the matter is referred to court.
Pro Tip: Always ensure your project is officially registered with DLD. Ask for the "Oqood" registration or invest with a well-known, established developer.

2. Risk of Market Fluctuation

Like any real estate market, Dubai experiences price ups and downs. Global events or temporary oversupply may cause short-term value drops.

To minimize this risk:

• Think long-term. Dubai’s past downturns were always followed by stronger recoveries.

• Choose locations with real demand like near Downtown, Business Bay, or Expo City.

• Don’t invest money you may need in the short term.

• Diversifying across different assets or geographies is also smart, but for many Arab expats, Dubai remains a stable and high-growth choice compared to their home countries or parts of Europe.

3. Risk of Missing a Payment

Off-plan properties usually require installments over the construction period. If your financial situation changes — for example, job loss in Europe — you might struggle to keep up.

Missed payments may lead to contract cancellation and partial loss of funds, especially if over 80% of the project is completed
(Source – chambers.com).

To prevent this:

• Build a conservative budget.

• Don’t use all your savings on the first payment. Keep emergency reserves.

• If you can’t continue, resell your contract early to another investor. This is allowed under DLD rules with proper documentation and can help you recover most of your money.

4. Risk of Fraud or Choosing the Wrong Project

Although rare in Dubai, poor choices or unverified developers still pose a risk. Stories exist globally of fake or non-licensed projects.

How to protect yourself:

• Confirm developer registration with DLD.

• Ensure the project has an official Escrow account.

• Request the project registration certificate.

• Only sign contracts that will be registered with DLD within 60 days
  (Source – chambers.com).

Never transfer money outside official channels. Read your sale contract carefully. If unsure, consult a property lawyer.

Good news: Dubai’s legal system is strongly in favor of buyers. Developers cannot charge hidden fees not listed in the DLD-approved contract, and must deliver the unit as specified or face legal liability.

Always work with certified real estate agents when needed and verify every step.

Final Word: Risk Is Real — But Manageable

Dubai's real estate market is one of the most regulated in the region. With smart research and the right partners, your investment is legally protected and financially promising.

Avoid unrealistic expectations. Focus on real, achievable outcomes. You’re not chasing quick riches — you're building a secure future in one of the safest, fastest-growing cities in the world.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for Arab Investors in Europe

If you're an Arab living in Europe and considering buying property in Dubai, here are the most common questions you might have—answered clearly and based on official sources.

Can foreigners (Syrian, Palestinian, Iraqi, etc.) own property in Dubai?

Yes. Dubai laws allow 100% freehold ownership for foreigners in designated areas. Anyone—resident or non-resident—can buy property and register it under their name without the need for a local sponsor.
There are dozens of designated freehold zones such as Dubai Marina, Downtown, Palm Jumeirah, and Dubailand.
You can find the full list on the Dubai Land Department (DLD) website.
Source: chambers.com

Does buying any property in Dubai grant me residency?

No. Residency is only granted if your property value meets the minimum requirement.
Currently, you must invest at least AED 750,000 to qualify for a 2-year investor visa.
For the 10-year Golden Visa, your investment must be AED 2 million or more.
If your property is worth less, you can still own it but won’t be eligible for residency.

Source: dubailand.gov.ae

Can I get a Golden Visa by purchasing multiple properties totaling AED 2 million?

Yes. As long as the combined value of all properties under your name is at least AED 2 million, you’re eligible.
For example, two properties worth AED 1 million each qualify you for the Golden Visa.
You’ll need a letter from DLD confirming total ownership value.

Can I use a mortgage to finance the property and still get a visa?

Yes, with conditions.
Banks usually finance up to 50% of the property value for non-residents.
To qualify for a visa, you must pay at least AED 750,000 (or 50% of the property value—whichever is higher) from your own funds.
You also need a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the bank.

Source: dubailand.gov.ae

What fees are involved when buying a property? Are there annual taxes?

Dubai charges a one-time registration fee of 4% of the property value plus AED 580 admin fee.
For example, a property worth AED 1 million will incur AED 40,580 in total fees.
There are no annual property taxes or rental income taxes in Dubai.
However, you must pay annual service charges for maintenance, cleaning, and security.
These charges vary by project and are calculated per square foot.

Sources: mortgagefinder.ae, aletihad.ae

Is my money safe with the developer before handover?

Yes, Dubai mandates escrow accounts for all off-plan projects.
Every payment you make goes into an escrow account regulated by RERA and held by a licensed bank.
Funds are only released to the developer based on construction progress.
If the project is canceled, funds are refunded within 60 days.

Source: dubailand.gov.ae

Can I resell the property before handover?

Yes. This is known as off-plan resale or contract assignment.
Most developers allow resale after 30–40% of the property price has been paid.
You’ll need an NOC from the developer and pay a small admin fee (around AED 5,000) plus 4% DLD fees on the new contract.
No hidden charges are allowed by law.

Sources: luxfoliorealestate.ae, chambers.com

Can I rent out my property while living abroad?

Absolutely.
Dubai has a strong rental market.
You can appoint a licensed property management company to handle tenants, collect rent, and maintain the unit on your behalf.
Management fees are usually 5%–8% of the annual rent.
You keep almost all of your rental income because the UAE has no rental income tax.

Source: aletihad.ae

Does the investor visa cover my family?

Yes.
The 2-year investor visa allows you to sponsor your spouse and children.
The Golden Visa extends this benefit and includes your spouse, children (of any age), and even your parents.

Source: dubailand.gov.ae

How long does it take to get residency after purchasing a property?

Processing time is around 7–10 business days after submitting all documents via the DLD’s “TASKEEN” service or the Golden Visa portal.
You first get an e-visa (entry permit), then complete the medical check and biometric scan.
After approval, you receive your Emirates ID and official residency.
Note: You must enter the UAE before applying for residency.
Tourist or visit visa is enough to start the process.

Source: dubailand.gov.ae

Final Note

Owning a property in Dubai is more than an investment—it's a pathway to residency, stability, and financial growth for you and your family.
If you’re an Arab living in Europe, now is the perfect time to take action.
We offer free consultation via WhatsApp to help you select the most suitable off-plan project for your goals.

Contact us today to get started. Your new life in Dubai begins here.