How to buy property in Dubai from the Philippines

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How to buy property in Dubai from the Philippines
How to buy property in Dubai from the Philippines
May 12, 2025, 2:14:58 PM | Guide

How to Buy Property in Dubai from the Philippines: A Complete 2025 Guide

Dubai real estate market continues to attract Filipino investors with its tax-free returns, high rental yields, and residency benefits. If you're considering buying property in Dubai from the Philippines, this comprehensive guide covers everything—from legal requirements to money transfers—helping you make a secure investment without unnecessary hurdles.

Why Filipino Investors Choose Dubai Real Estate

  • Strong Peso-to-AED Exchange Rate (1 AED ≈ 15.50 PHP)
  • Tax-Free Investment – No property, capital gains, or rental income taxes
  •  High Rental Yields (6-9% vs 3-5% in Manila)
  • Golden Visa Option – Properties over 750K AED qualify for residency
  • Stable Market – Prices grew by 5.8% in Q1 2025 (DLD Report)

Step 1: Legal Requirements for Filipino Buyers

Can Filipinos Buy Property in Dubai?

Yes! Philippine passport holders can purchase:

Freehold properties in designated areas like:

  • Dubai Marina
  • Downtown Dubai
  • Jumeirah Village Circle

Leasehold properties (up to 99 years)

Required Documents

  • Valid Philippine passport
  • Proof of funds (6 months bank statements)
  • TIN (Tax Identification Number)
  • Power of Attorney (if buying remotely)

2025 Update: New requirement for Notarized Affidavit of Source of Funds

Step 2: Financing Options from the Philippines

Option 1: Cash Purchase

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

Option 2: Dubai Mortgage

Filipinos can get up to 75% financing

Interest rates: 4.75-6.25%

Required documents:

  • Employment certificate
  • 6 months bank statements
  • Philippine credit report

Option 3: Philippine Bank Financing

  • Limited options – BDO and Metrobank offer overseas property loans
  • Typically require 40-50% down payment

2025 Tip: Some developers now accept PHP payments through partner banks

Step 3: Money Transfer Process from the Philippines

Approved Transfer Methods

1. Bank Transfers (Through BSP-approved channels)

  • $10,000/year limit under liberalized rules
  • Higher amounts require special approval

2. Exchange Houses (Better rates than banks)

3. Developer Direct Payments (Installment plans in PHP)

Important: Keep all transfer receipts for DLD registration

Step 4: Choosing the Right Property

Best Areas for Filipino Investors (2025)

Area

Property Type

Price Range

Rental Yield

Jumeirah Village Circle

Affordable Apartments

500K - 1.5M AED

7-9%

Dubai South

Mid-Range Homes

600K - 2M AED

6-8%

International City

Budget Studios

300K - 700K AED

8-10%

2025 Trend: Growing Filipino community in Al Furjan and Discovery Gardens

Step 5: Working With Real Estate Professionals

Finding a Reliable Agent
✔ RERA-certified (Dubai's regulatory body)
✔ Experience with Filipino 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)
Processing Time: 4-6 weeks

Tax Considerations

In Dubai:
  • No property taxes
  • No capital gains tax
In Philippines:
  • Must declare foreign property in SALN
  • Rental income taxable if remitted to PH
Recommendation: Consult a cross-border tax specialist