Can foreigners own property in Abu Dhabi?

Since 2019, Abu Dhabi law (Law No. 13 of 2019) allows non-UAE nationals to own freehold property inside designated investment zones. Outside these zones, foreigners can usually hold long-term rights instead of full ownership, such as usufruct or musataha (long-lease and development rights), so always check which type of title a property has.

Property in Abu Dhabi is registered through the Abu Dhabi Real Estate Centre (ADREC), part of the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT), which also licenses developers, brokers and off-plan projects.

Where can foreigners buy in Abu Dhabi?

Main investment zones include:

Area Profile
Saadiyat Island Beachfront villas, branded residences and premium apartments; home to the Saadiyat Cultural District
Yas Island Entertainment island (theme parks, Yas Marina Circuit), apartments, townhouses and villas
Al Reem Island High-rise apartments next to the city centre; established rental market
Al Raha Beach Waterfront community between the city and Yas
Al Maryah Island Financial district (ADGM) with premium apartments
Al Hudayriyat Island, Ramhan Island, Jubail Island Newer island communities, mainly villas and off-plan
Masdar City, Al Reef, Lulu Island, designated parts of Khalifa City Other investment zones

See all areas of Abu Dhabi on our site.

Step by step

Ready (resale) property

  1. Choose the property and check the title type (freehold in an investment zone) and service charges.
  2. Agree the price and sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with a deposit, commonly around 10%.
  3. Developer NOC confirming there are no outstanding charges.
  4. Transfer through ADREC/DMT: you pay the price and fees, and the title deed is issued in your name.

Off-plan property

  1. Choose an ADREC-registered project and reserve the unit with a booking deposit (often 5–10%).
  2. Sign the SPA and pay according to the payment plan. Payments go into the project's escrow account and are released as construction progresses.
  3. Registration of your purchase with ADREC by the developer.
  4. Handover at completion, after the final payment, and issue of the title deed.

You can buy remotely through a power of attorney; many international buyers never visit before handover.

How much does it cost to buy in Abu Dhabi?

Cost Typical amount
Registration fee (DMT/ADREC) 2% of the price (often split between buyer and seller; check your agreement)
Title deed issuance About AED 1,000
Agency fee (resale) Usually about 2% + 5% VAT; usually none when buying directly from a developer
Mortgage registration (if any) Fee based on the loan amount, plus bank valuation and arrangement fees
Developer NOC (resale) Varies by developer

There is no annual property tax and no capital gains tax for individuals. Owners pay annual service charges to the community. Full UAE tax picture: property taxes and buying costs.

Abu Dhabi vs Dubai: key differences

Abu Dhabi Dubai
Registration fee 2% 4%
Regulator ADREC (DMT) DLD / RERA
Foreign ownership Freehold in investment zones Freehold in designated areas
Market Smaller, more selective, many family-oriented communities Larger, more transactions, wider choice
Golden Visa via property From AED 2 million From AED 2 million

Read more in our Dubai and Abu Dhabi area guide.

Before you buy: checklist

  • The project and developer are registered with ADREC.
  • The property is in an investment zone with freehold title (or you understand the alternative right you are buying).
  • The escrow account is named in the SPA, and all off-plan payments go there.
  • You know the service charges and community fees.
  • For resale: the seller has the title deed and the developer will issue an NOC.

Buy in Abu Dhabi with SPI Dubai

SPI Dubai advises investors on projects in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi and helps you compare the two markets for your budget. Get a consultation — we usually reply within 10 minutes.

This article is for general information only and is not legal or financial advice. Fees and rules can change; confirm with ADREC/DMT, the developer or a qualified advisor.

Sources: Abu Dhabi Law No. 13 of 2019; Abu Dhabi Real Estate Centre (ADREC) / Department of Municipalities and Transport; INOVO Real Estate Abu Dhabi buyer guide (2026); Bloom Holding, Abu Dhabi property fees (2026).