How to Buy Property in Dubai from Hong Kong

Aug 11, 2025, 4:20:17 PM | Guide

How to Buy Property in Dubai from Hong Kong The Complete Guide

Hong Kong investors are increasingly turning to Dubai property market, attracted by tax-free returns, golden visas, and prices 40-60% lower than Hong Kong's. With direct flights under 8 hours and a straightforward buying process, purchasing Dubai real estate from Hong Kong has never been more accessible. This guide covers every step – from money transfers to visa benefits for HK buyers.

Why Hong Kong Investors Are Choosing Dubai

Market Advantages

  • Price difference: AED 2,100/sqft (Dubai) vs HK$28,000/sqft (Hong Kong)
  • Rental yields: 6-8% in Dubai vs 2-3% in Hong Kong
  • Tax benefits: No property, income, or capital gains taxes
  • Currency advantage: HKD pegged to USD like AED

Step 1: Understanding Ownership Rules

Freehold Areas for HK Buyers

  1. Downtown Dubai (Burj Khalifa area)
  2. Dubai Marina (waterfront towers)
  3. Palm Jumeirah (luxury villas)
  4. Business Bay (commercial/residential)
  5. Dubai South (Expo City area)

Step 2: Financing Options from Hong Kong

Payment Methods Compared

Option

Requirements

Pros

Cons

Cash

Proof of funds

Best discounts

Large capital outlay

HK Bank Mortgage

40-50% down

Lower rates

Limited options

Developer Plan

20-30% down

Flexible terms

Higher overall cost

Remittance

FCPA compliant

Full control

Exchange rate risk

Step 3: Money Transfer Process

Legal Transfer Options
1. Bank Transfers (most common)
  • Max HKD 8M/day under HKMA rules
  • Requires sale agreement
2. Exchange Houses
  • Better rates than banks
  • Must declare source
3. Cryptocurrency
  • Select developers now accept BTC/ETH
  • Verify tax implications
Documents Needed:
  • Passport copy
  • Purchase agreement
  • Source of funds proof

Step 4: Choosing the Right Property

Best Areas for HK Investors

Area

Price Range

Yield

HK Buyer Popularity

Downtown

AED 1.8M+

6.5%

38% of HK purchases

Dubai Marina

AED 1.5M+

7.1%

29%

Palm Jumeirah

AED 3M+

5.8%

18%

Business Bay

AED 1.2M+

7.4%

15%

Step 5: The Buying Process

From Hong Kong to Handover

  1. Virtual viewings (standard in 2025)
  2. Reserve unit (5-10% deposit)
  3. Sign MoU (digitally notarized)
  4. Transfer funds (14-day window)
  5. Receive title deed (electronic registration)

Step 6: After Purchase Considerations

Managing Your Investment

  • Property management: 5-8% of rent
  • Tax filing: Only if remitting to HK
  • Visa application: AED 2M+ qualifies

Hong Kong-Specific Advantages

Unique Benefits

  • No restrictions on outward remittance
  • HSBC Dubai accounts for HK residents
  • Direct flights: 7+ daily (Emirates/Cathay)
  • Time zone: Only 4 hours difference