Buying property in Dubai as an expat is a straightforward process. Under Law No. 7 of 2006, expats can own property in designated freehold areas such as Downtown Dubai and Palm Jumeirah, enjoying full ownership rights. Alternatively, leasehold ownership offers rights for up to 99 years. To get started, you’ll need essential documents like your passport, proof of income, bank statements, a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the developer, and a sale agreement (Form F). Expats are required to provide a minimum deposit of 25% of the property’s value. The process involves negotiating terms and preparing a contract with the seller, signing the Memorandum of Understanding (Form F) with a 10% deposit paid to the Registration Trustee, securing a NOC to confirm the property has no outstanding fees, and completing the ownership transfer at a Dubai Land Department (DLD) Trustee office. You’ll need to factor in additional costs such as DLD fees at 4% of the property value, a title deed fee of AED 580, and a trustee fee of AED 4,200. With careful planning, Dubai’s real estate market offers lucrative opportunities for expat buyers.