Why Invest In Dubai?
Property Investment
Dubai is a lucrative destination for investment for a number of reasons. Its world-class infrastructure coupled with a safe living and a facilitated business environment makes it an ideal place to live and work. Dubai is ranked first in global population and employment growth [National Statistics Office] with an annual GDP growth in Dubai averaging 14% per year over the last 30 years [IMP], making the demand for Dubai real estate even more viable.
The fact is that Dubai has witnessed 13% growth year-on-year since 2000. That makes for a higher growth rate than both India and China, presently the two most powerful developing countries in the world. Overseas property investment in Dubai has skyrocketed since May 2002, when it was made legal for foreign nationals to own property within the emirate. Since this time, over 100, 000 British nationals have purchased property in Dubai, and this investment property boom is helping to fuel Dubai's rapid financial and economic growth. If you're hoping to create or expand your investment property portfolio in Dubai, you'll find that the range of property on offer is vast. When you buy property in Dubai, there are no legal fees required (although advice is recommended) and you won't incur any capital gains tax or income tax on your investment property.
Since the freehold in Dubai was relaxed allowing foreigners to purchase property in Dubai there has been an unprecedented real estate explosion. Dubai is rapidly becoming the obvious choice for overseas investors, especially as in most cases purchasing a property in Dubai enables you to apply for a residency visa. Huge growth in the residential freehold market and rental yields that are over treble what can be expected in Europe have propelled Dubai as the number one emerging city in the world today. Record breaking developments such as The Burj Dubai and The Burj Al Arab have captured the imagination of the press and public alike all around the world.
Although Dubai properties have attracted investment from an astounding number of overseas property buyers over the last few years with some making stunning short term gains, most of the major attractions are still under construction, meaning this property hot spot still offers a sound investment opportunity in the medium term and longer term. And, according to Moneycorp, exchange rates make property in Dubai more affordable than ever before. The UAE dirham (the Dubai currency) is pegged against the US dollar and so it follows the same movements against sterling. With sterling still trading at more than $2 to the pound and property prices expected to rise 15% per year, it may never have been a better time for UK investors to invest in Dubai. Dubai and the UAE's future are focused upon creating a financial, commercial and tourism environment second to none and foreign investment is encouraged. UK nationals buying property in Dubai can also apply for residency there and residents do not have to pay capital gains, inheritance or income tax. These are just some of the reasons why Dubai property is still a great investment.
All this coupled with zero property and income tax and an unmatched standard of living, it is no surprise that Dubai is the labeled as The City Of The 21st Century. The lack of available housing has caused the rents to rise on completed projects and has also led to increasing prices of new and off plan projects. As more expatriates come to Dubai the pressure will remain on the prices to keep rising, which is great for investors.
Background on Dubai’s Development
Dubai’s property market, for years has been controlled by three master developers. Emaar, Nakheel and Dubai Properties who are all owned to some degree by the Government, will provide around 50% of all completed projects over the next 4 years.
Over the last few years a large number on non Government investors have moved into the Dubai Property market. This is mainly as a result of the Master Developers selling or leasing land for third-party development. One of the largest foreign investors is Damac, they have been responsible for developing iconic projects such as Damac Heights, Ocean Heights and XL Tower. This new breed of developer is targeting the luxury segment of the market in Dubai.
With the costs of constructing rising in Dubai and much larger supply, developers now have a much higher focus on quality as buyers are now more demanding and expect very high standards. Buyers can also now be swayed with more sophisticated financial options and the facilities to arrange up to 70% mortgages. Developers can no longer afford to risk a build now – sell later strategy, this means there has to be far more emphasis on market studies, cost analysis and aggressive marketing campaigns to ensure that a development is a success.
Here at Vista Dubai we specialize in maximizing your properties exposure to the buying market, and with our risk analysis team we will help you through every stage of your development.
Huge Growth in Dubai’s Freehold Market
The massive increase in expatriate residents has fuelled an unprecedented demand for freehold property in Dubai. The annual population increase has been around 10% for the last 5 years and it has been estimated that around 900,000 new jobs are likely to be created under the Dubai Strategic Plan 2015, so there is little sign of this slowing. Dubai’s population is estimated to be 2m by 2010.
This enormous demand for freehold housing is far outweighing the amount of new residential properties that are being completed. This is ensuring that the real estate market in Dubai is flourishing. You can expect up to 20% growth annually on the right project.
Market experts estimate that that the demand for freehold residential housing will increase up to ten-fold by 2010. However purchasing a property in Dubai for investment purposes can be a risky business, there are a multitude of different projects available, different areas and different styles, Vista Dubai will help you carefully analyze your options. We will help you to make the right decision for you by utilizing the knowledge of our in-house experts.
Rental Property Market in Dubai
Demand for property in Dubai is far exceeding supply at present, this has seen a knock on effect on the rental market with rents for residential homes increasing year by year. In 2005 the average rent on a home increased by 40% and by 30% in 2006. This has given property buyers a yield of anywhere between 7 and 12%, far outstripping Europe where the average is around 3%.
These increases however are slowing. In 2006 the Dubai Government introduced a rent rise cap of 15%, and in 2007 lowered this to 7%. This cap is due for review in December 2007 and many expect it to be relaxed. At this time of high yield rentals you need to make sure that you a partner that understands the market in Dubai. We have a residential leasing team that will help to advise you in this potentially rocky area. Now is the time to get in contact if you are either looking to buy-to-let in Dubai or need a partner to help you lease out your current properties. |