How to Buy Property in Dubai from Sri Lanka

How to Buy Property in Dubai from Sri Lanka
How to Buy Property in Dubai from Sri Lanka
May 27, 2025, 1:58:37 PM | Dubai Real Estate

How to Buy Property in Dubai from Sri Lanka: The Complete 2025 Guide

Dubai’s real estate market is attracting Sri Lankan investors with its high returns, tax benefits, and Golden Visa opportunities. If you're considering buying offplan property in Dubai from Sri Lanka, this guide covers everything from legal requirements to money transfers helping you make a secure investment without unnecessary hurdles.

Why Sri Lankans Are Investing in Dubai Real Estate

  • Strong ROI Potential – Rental yields of 6-9% vs. 3-5% in Sri Lanka
  • Tax-Free Investment – No property, capital gains, or rental income taxes
  • Golden Visa Access – Properties over AED 750K qualify for residency
  • Currency Stability – AED pegged to USD (vs. LKR fluctuations)
  • Safe Investment Haven – Stable market amid Sri Lanka’s economic challenges

Step 1: Legal Requirements for Sri Lankan Buyers

Can Sri Lankans Buy Property in Dubai?

Yes! Sri Lankan nationals can purchase:

Freehold properties in designated areas like:

  • Dubai Marina
  • Downtown Dubai
  • Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC)

Leasehold properties (up to 99 years)

Required Documents

  • Valid Sri Lankan passport
  • Proof of funds (6 months bank statements)
  • NID (National Identity Card)
  • Power of Attorney (if buying remotely)

Step 2: Financing Options from Sri Lanka

Option 1: Cash Purchase

  • Best for avoiding interest payments
  • Some developers offer 5-10% discounts for cash buyers

Option 2: Dubai Mortgage

  • Sri Lankans can get up to 70% financing
  • Interest rates: 5.5-7%

Required documents:

  • 6 months bank statements
  • Employment verification
  • Sri Lankan credit report (if available)

Option 3: Sri Lankan Bank Financing

  • Limited options – Some private banks offer foreign property loans
  • Typically require 40-50% down payment

Step 3: Money Transfer Process from Sri Lanka

Approved Transfer Methods

  • Bank Transfers – Through CBSL-approved channels ($50K/year limit)
  • Exchange Houses – Better rates than banks
  • Developer Direct Payments – Installments in LKR/AED

Step 4: Choosing the Right Property

Best Areas for Sri Lankan Investors

Area

Property Type

Price Range

Rental Yield

Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC)

Affordable Apartments

AED 500K - 1.2M

7-9%

International City

Budget Studios

AED 350K - 700K

8-10%

Business Bay

Mid-Range Apartments

AED 900K - 2M

6-7%

Step 5: Working with Real Estate Agents

Finding a Reliable Agent
  • RERA-certified (Dubai’s regulatory body)
  • Experience with Sri Lankan clients
  • Transparent fee structure
Red Flags:
  • Pressure to sign immediately
  • Unverified "too good to be true" deals

Step 6: The Purchase Process

  • Reservation (5-10% deposit)
  • Sales Agreement Review
  • DLD Registration (4% fee)
  • Remote Ownership Transfer (Via Power of Attorney)

Tax Considerations

In Dubai:
  • No property taxes
  • No capital gains tax
In Sri Lanka:
  • Must declare foreign property in tax returns
  • Rental income taxable if remitted to Sri Lanka