Question 1

What is the minimum down payment required to purchase a property in Dubai Hills Estate?

Accepted Answer

The minimum down payment required to buy a property in Dubai Hills Estate is typically 20% of the property’s value for expatriates and 15% for UAE nationals, in line with current UAE Central Bank mortgage regulations.
This requirement applies whether you are purchasing an apartment or villa in Dubai Hills Estate, and it ensures that buyers have a clear financial commitment before securing a mortgage. While developers like Emaar sometimes offer special off-plan payment structures, the regulatory minimum remains set by the Central Bank and overseen by the Dubai Land Department (DLD).
Understanding the Down Payment Rules
So what does this mean for you as a buyer? The percentage you need depends on your residency status and the price of the property you are considering:

UAE Nationals: 15% minimum down payment for properties valued under AED 5 million.
Expatriates: 20% minimum down payment for properties valued under AED 5 million.
High-Value Properties (AED 5 million+): Both nationals and expats must provide a 30% down payment.
Off-Plan Purchases: Developers may allow staged installments (e.g., 10/70/20), but buyers must still cover the minimum equity required before mortgage approval at handover.

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Example Breakdown

Property Value
Expatriate Down Payment
UAE National Down Payment

AED 2,000,000
AED 400,000 (20%)
AED 300,000 (15%)

AED 6,000,000
AED 1,800,000 (30%)
AED 1,800,000 (30%)

Risks & Considerations

Mortgage approval is subject to income and credit checks, so actual eligibility may vary.
Additional costs like the 4% DLD registration fee, valuation charges, and agency fees are separate from the down payment.
Off-plan projects may advertise lower initial booking fees (5–10%), but the regulatory minimum equity must be met before bank financing is released at handover.

Key Takeaways

Expect to budget at least 15–20% of the purchase price as down payment in Dubai Hills Estate.
High-value properties require 30% upfront, regardless of residency.
Factor in extra costs beyond the down payment to avoid surprises.
Consulting with a qualified advisor ensures you understand both regulatory and developer-specific payment structures.

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Question 2

What is the difference between freehold and leasehold properties in Dubai?

Accepted Answer

In Dubai, a freehold property gives you complete ownership of both the property and the land it stands on, while a leasehold property grants you the right to use the property for a fixed period, usually 30 to 99 years, after which ownership reverts to the freeholder.
So what does this mean for buyers and investors? Freehold offers greater flexibility, long-term security, and stronger resale potential, while leasehold can be more affordable and may appeal to those with specific short- to medium-term plans.
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Freehold Properties

Ownership: Buyer owns the property and the land outright.
Eligibility: Available to both UAE nationals and foreigners in designated areas.
Rights: Full rights to sell, lease, or pass on the property to heirs.
Popular Areas: Downtown Dubai, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Marina, and Dubai Hills Estate.

Leasehold Properties

Ownership: Buyer leases the property for 30–99 years; land remains with freeholder.
Rights: Can use, rent, or sell the lease within its term.
Expiry: Ownership reverts to the freeholder when lease ends, unless renewed.
Common Uses: Often found in established areas where freehold is restricted.

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Pros & Cons at a Glance

Aspect
Freehold
Leasehold

Ownership
Full ownership of land + property
Right to use property for lease term

Resale Value
Typically higher due to permanent ownership
Lower resale potential as lease term decreases

Cost
Higher entry price
More affordable in many cases

Investor Appeal
Favoured by expats & long-term investors
Useful for medium-term living or business needs

In short, freehold property offers the strongest security and long-term value, while leasehold can be a more accessible option for those who do not require permanent ownership. Choosing the right option depends on your budget, goals, and how long you plan to stay invested in Dubai.
Speak with our consultants about Dubai ownership structures

Question 3

What payment plans are available for purchasing units in Burj Binghatti Jacob & Co?

Accepted Answer

Binghatti Properties provides flexible installment-based payment plans for Burj Binghatti Jacob & Co Residences, typically aligned with construction milestones and final handover. Buyers can expect down payments, staged installments during construction, and a balance due upon completion. For the latest terms, buyers should confirm directly with Binghatti or RERA-authorized agents.
Detailed Explanation
Payment plans are a central part of Dubai’s real estate market, making ultra-luxury projects more accessible to investors. For Burj Binghatti Jacob & Co Residences:

Down Payment: Generally ranges between 10–20% at booking, depending on the unit type.

Construction-Linked Installments: Buyers make payments in phases as the tower progresses through foundation, structural, and finishing stages.

Final Handover Payment: A significant balance (often 30–40%) is due upon completion, expected in 2026–2027.

Post-Handover Options: In some cases, developers offer post-handover installments to spread costs across 1–3 years.

Since this is a high-profile branded residence, the exact structure may vary by unit type (residences, suites, sky mansions, penthouses). For compliance and transparency, all official payment schedules must be registered with Dubai’s Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA).
Practical Implications for Buyers and Investors
For end-users, a flexible payment plan allows time to prepare finances while securing a home in a landmark project. For investors, construction-linked plans reduce upfront costs and align payments with market appreciation  meaning you’re not paying the full amount until the property is closer to delivery. Post-handover plans, if offered, can also make units more attractive for long-term rental strategies.
Expert Insight & Conclusion
Burj Binghatti Jacob & Co Residences follows Dubai’s proven payment plan model: structured installments plus a handover balance, making it appealing to both lifestyle buyers and global investors. The key takeaway: always confirm the current structure with Binghatti or a RERA-authorized agent to ensure accuracy, as pricing and schedules can be updated throughout construction.

Question 4

What are the first steps to buy property in Dubai as a foreigner?

Accepted Answer

For foreigners, the first steps to buy property in Dubai involve selecting a registered real estate agent, ensuring the property is in a freehold zone, and completing the legal process under the Dubai Land Department (DLD). Buyers must sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), pay a 10% deposit, and proceed to transfer ownership at the DLD offices once final payment is made. These steps provide legal protection and ensure the transaction is fully compliant with UAE regulations.
Detailed Explanation
Dubai permits foreigners to own freehold property in designated areas such as Dubai Marina, Downtown Dubai, Palm Jumeirah, and Business Bay. The standard purchase process for expatriates typically includes:

Engage a RERA-Registered Agent: Work only with licensed brokers approved by the Dubai Land Department to ensure transparency and legal compliance.
Select a Freehold Property: Foreign buyers may purchase only in designated freehold zones. Check the property’s legal status with DLD before proceeding.
Sign the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU): This document outlines agreed terms between buyer and seller. A 10% deposit is usually paid at this stage to secure the property.
Obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC): The developer must issue an NOC confirming that the seller has no outstanding service charges or liabilities.
Finalize Transfer at DLD: Both parties meet at the Dubai Land Department to complete the ownership transfer. The buyer pays the balance, along with DLD fees (typically 4% of the purchase price + AED 580 for title deed issuance).

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Practical Implications for Foreign Buyers
Foreign investors benefit from strong property rights in Dubai, but it’s important to budget for additional costs such as DLD fees, agency commission (typically 2%), and mortgage registration fees if financing. Using a registered agent reduces risk of fraud and ensures that all steps — from MoU to NOC to final transfer — are handled correctly.
Expert Insight & Conclusion
The process for foreigners to buy property in Dubai is straightforward but requires due diligence. Key priorities are working with a RERA-approved agent, choosing a freehold area, and following DLD’s structured process. By securing the MoU, paying the 10% deposit, and ensuring all clearances are obtained before final transfer, foreign buyers can confidently invest in Dubai’s real estate market with legal protection and long-term ownership rights.
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What is the minimum down payment required to purchase a property in Dubai Hills Estate?

Understanding the Down Payment Rules

Example Breakdown

Risks & Considerations

Key Takeaways

Related Questions