Egyptians and other Arab expats are among the most active property buyers in the UAE. A Khaleej Times report from July 2026, citing DXBinteract data, ranked Egyptians third among international buyers in Dubai in early 2026, with 12.6%, after Indian and British buyers. Many buy for two reasons: family stability and residency, and an investment held in a stable currency. Here is the process step by step.
Can Egyptians and Arab expats own property?
Dubai
Yes. All nationalities can buy freehold in Dubai's designated freehold areas, including Dubai Creek Harbour and Emaar South.
Sharjah
Under Sharjah Law No. 2 of 2022 and Executive Council Decision No. 30 of 2022, non-GCC foreigners can own property inside areas and projects approved by the Executive Council. Outside them, foreign ownership is usually a usufruct right of up to 100 years. Approved projects we cover include Maryam Island and Al Mamsha, which starts from AED 629,000 according to our project page.
Step-by-step buying process
- Set your goal: a home, rental income, residency, or all three. Your goal decides your budget and area.
- Arrange funding: cash, a developer payment plan, or a mortgage if you are a resident and qualify. If you are sending money from Egypt or another country, check your bank's procedures and any rules that apply before you commit to a payment plan.
- Verify the project: it must be registered with Dubai Land Department or Sharjah's Real Estate Registration Department, with an escrow account.
- Reserve and sign the SPA. Read the handover, delay and service charge clauses.
- Pay only into escrow or the developer's official account, never into a personal account.
- Register: Oqood in Dubai at 4%. Khaleej Times reported a standard 4% registration fee in Sharjah.
- Receive your title deed and apply for residency if you are eligible.
Documents
- Valid passport
- Emirates ID and residence visa (if you live in the UAE)
- Proof of funds and bank statements
- Reservation form and SPA
Residency options through property
1) Dubai 2-year property investor visa
According to Khaleej Times (April 2026):
- The AED 750,000 minimum has been removed for sole owners.
- For joint ownership, each owner's share must be worth at least AED 400,000.
- For mortgaged or instalment properties, you need an NOC from the bank or developer and proof that at least 50% of the value, or AED 375,000, has been paid.
GDRFA Dubai also lists a monthly income of at least AED 10,000 (or equivalent) or proof of financial solvency, and the property must be complete and habitable.
2) Golden Visa (10 years)
According to ICP:
- One or more properties with a total value of at least AED 2 million
- Off-plan units of the same value qualify if bought from an approved company
- Financing from an approved local bank is allowed
- Valid health insurance for the investor and family
DLD lists total fees of about AED 9,884.75 for its investor Golden Visa service, with processing in 7 to 10 working days.
What about Sharjah?
The Golden Visa is a federal programme and can be based on a qualifying Sharjah property. Confirm the procedure with the relevant Sharjah authorities when you apply.
Tips for Egyptian and Arab buyers
- Don't buy 'just for the visa'. The property itself should be a sound investment.
- Compare Sharjah with Dubai. The same budget often buys more space in Sharjah.
- Ask about service charges before you buy, because they cut into net rent.
- Talk to an adviser at home about tax obligations or rules on moving money.
Frequently asked questions
Can an Egyptian buy property in Dubai?
Yes, in freehold areas, following the same process as other nationalities.
Can I get residency with an apartment under AED 750,000?
According to Khaleej Times (April 2026), Dubai removed the minimum value for sole owners on the 2-year visa. Other conditions, such as a completed property and income proof, still apply. Confirm when you apply.
Does an off-plan purchase qualify for the Golden Visa?
Yes, if the total value is AED 2 million or more and you bought from an approved company, according to ICP.
Can I own property in Sharjah?
Yes, inside projects and areas approved for non-citizen ownership under Sharjah Law No. 2 of 2022.
Whether you already live in the UAE or are buying from Egypt or elsewhere in the Arab world, Alroya Almomayaza Real Estate Brokers in Sharjah speaks your language and handles everything from shortlisting to registration. WhatsApp us at +971 58 558 9894.
