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Buying vs renting: what is better?

Eynar Ismailov The author of the article, the Broker
#Blog DDA
1 July 3402 view

In the UAE in general and in Dubai in particular, the decision of whether to buy or rent property depends on various factors, including your objectives, ability to finance, and future plans. In this post, we’ll explore the key pros and cons of both options.

Benefits of Investing in UAE Real Estate

There are many benefits to purchasing real estate in the UAE:

  • Right to Own Property: Expatriates enjoy 100% ownership rights of property in Freehold areas like Downtown Dubai, Palm Jumeirah, and Dubai Marina.
  • Rental Return: The average rental return is 5%-8% per year, and for liquid properties, up to 11%.
  • Visa Perks: Investors who buy property worth at least 750,000 AED (about $204,000) can apply for a residency visa.
  • No Taxes: The UAE does not levy property, income, or capital gains taxes on individuals.

However, real estate is expensive to purchase. The down payment and the cost of other initial fees, including registration (about 4% of the property value), can pose a significant obstacle for many buyers. Property owners also have to manage and maintain their properties, which adds additional costs.

Advantages of Renting Real Estate in the UAE

There are also advantages to renting real estate in the UAE:

  • Flexible Lifestyle: Renting is more flexible than buying in terms of where you live and how you move. This can be a significant benefit for anyone planning to stay in the property for a short period or those who move often.
  • Lower Start-up Costs: You do not have to spend a lot of money to get started renting, unlike buying a property.
  • Less Responsibility: Renters are not responsible for maintenance or repairs – it is the landlord’s responsibility.

However, renting has its drawbacks. Rental costs are anything but cheap in the UAE, especially in desirable areas. The cost to rent a flat in Dubai is 70,000 AED per year, a 25% increase from the year before. Additionally, rents in the UAE are generally paid a year in advance, often requiring a very large lump sum payment for many.

Furthermore, renters have no stake in the property because their rent payments do not help build equity.

Rent vs. Buy Real Estate in the UAE: Which is Better?

Buying real estate is beneficial for people looking to settle in the UAE long-term or permanently and who are willing to invest in assets. It’s also ideal for those hoping to generate rental income and for anyone who wants to own property in the long run.

Not too sure if you want to invest a large amount of cash upfront? Don’t have a lot of cash to spend initially? Or maybe you don’t plan to stay long in the country? Then renting is for you. It’s a convenient option for those who don’t want to deal with managing property. But if you still want to buy an apartment in the UAE, contact DDA Real Estate. We will help you profitably purchase real estate in one of the most promising markets in the world.

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