5 Residential Real Estate Opportunities for Foreign Investors in Dubai

5 Residential Real Estate Opportunities for Foreign Investors in DubaiBY EHSAN BAYAT

A business hub and tourist destination in the Middle East, Dubai is the United Arab Emirates’ most populous city, comprised of residents and professionals from around the world. The city is known for its iconic architecture, high-end shopping, and luxurious atmosphere.

For many, the unique experiences and explosive growth in Dubai make it a desirable place to own property. In 2002, a decree was issued to allow foreign nationals to purchase freehold properties in Dubai, triggering a residential real estate boom in the city. Citizens from other countries around the world continue to buy residential properties in Dubai as second homes and investment properties.

With numerous freehold developments across the city, investors have access to different types of homes, various amenities, and prime locations. Here is more information about five residential real estate opportunities for investors and foreign nationals in Dubai:

1. Discovery Gardens Dubai

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Centrally located in the new Dubai area, the freehold residential community Discovery Gardens Dubai features 26,000 studios and one- and two-bedroom apartments in a garden living environment.

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The 26 million-square-foot development offers six themed communities, including the Zen and Mediterranean developments, which focus on the diversity of nature.

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In a development that is 30 percent landscaping, residents are surrounded by carefully manicured lawns, desert flowers, and lush foliage. Residents also enjoy luxurious interiors with marble tiles, warm lighting, and maple finishes.

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For many investors, Discovery Gardens Dubai also represents a sound investment opportunity due to its proximity to major destinations in the city.

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The residential development is located near the expansive Gardens Shopping Mall, Dubai Marina, Dubai Internet City, and Dubai Media City.

2. Dubai Marina Towers

Situated alongside the world’s largest human-constructed marina, the Dubai Marina Towers complex offers luxurious waterfront living, while providing residents with convenient access to nearby shopping, entertainment, and business sites.

Residents of Dubai Marina Towers can enjoy the renowned Dubai Marina Mall and the Dubai Marina Yacht club within the community, or they can make a short trip to nearby locations, such as Dubai Internet City and Emirates Golf Club. In the Dubai Marina community, residents can also find dining options, spas, a supermarket, and family-friendly spaces along the water.

The Dubai Marina Towers complex includes six towers named after Arab fragrances and precious stones, including the 37-story Mesk, 28-story Al Mass, and the 16-story Anbar.

Ranging from 1,025 to 6,982 square-feet, the homes in the Dubai Marina Towers are available in villas ranging from three to four bedrooms, or in apartments with one to five bedrooms. The homes all feature luxury finishes, and residents have access to an on-site pool, gym, and lounge.

3. Arabian Ranches

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Spanning across more than 1,500 acres, Arabian Ranches is a desert-themed residential community with 4,000 luxury villas surrounded by a wide range of amenities. The tranquil development includes townhomes and villas in different sizes and styles, including the Portuguese-style Alvorada villas.

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With decorative turrets and terracotta roofs, the two-story Alvorada villas offer three to five bedrooms and range from 3,566 to 4,844 square feet. The homes in the Arabian Ranches neighborhoods also include modern kitchens, built-in closets, and balconies and terraces.

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In addition to spacious and modern homes, the Arabian Ranches development attracts residents by providing a championship golf course, equestrian club, and retail centers. The integrated community offers residents easy access to supermarkets and restaurants, as well as health care facilities and schools.

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As a gated community in new Dubai, Arabian Ranches is removed from Dubai’s busiest areas, but is still close to many of the city’s main attractions.

4. Emirates Living

Emirates Living

A freehold villa community, Emirates Living is often described as a family-friendly development with enclosed yards, lakes, parks, and swimming pools.

The community also includes the world-class Montgomery Championship Golf Course and numerous communal facilities, such as nurseries and shopping centers.

Within minutes, residents can access the nearby Dubai Internet City, Dubai Marina, and The Mall of the Emirates.

Emirates Living

The Emirates Living community allows residents and investors to choose from single-family townhomes or attached and semi-attached homes with luxurious features.

Among the many high-end features are 9-foot ceilings, marble staircases, ensuite bathrooms, and digital hookups.

The community also maintains 24-hour security for greater privacy and safety.

5. Jumeirah Beach Residence

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Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) is an expansive freehold community that consists of 35 waterfront towers in the Arabic and Mediterranean style.

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Located along the Arabian Gulf, JBR features luxury apartments in various sizes, the smallest being a studio and the largest a four-bedroom unit. Many of the properties have views of Dubai Marina’s artificial canal or the sea.

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Along with residential units for sale and rent, the JBR development includes five luxury hotel towers surrounded by restaurants, cafes, and shops.

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The development offers more than a mile of retail outlets, called The Walk, on the lower levels of the buildings. Offering both beach access and urban amenities, JBR is one of the most popular communities in Dubai.