Dubai Property for Belgian Buyers
0% tax. 6.5-hour direct flights. Escape Belgium's high marginal rates. Here's why Belgian investors are turning to Dubai property.
Why Belgian Buyers Choose Dubai
Escape high Belgian marginal rates (up to 50%) and complex taxation. Earn tax-free rental income. Dubai offers Belgian investors a compelling alternative to the domestic and European property market.
Belgium vs Dubai: Tax Comparison
The numbers that make Belgian property investors reconsider.
| Tax Type | Belgium | Dubai |
|---|---|---|
| Rental Income Tax | Up to 50% | 0% |
| Capital Gains Tax | 0-33%* | 0% |
| Purchase Tax (Registratierechten) | 10-12.5% | 4% |
| Wealth Tax | None | None |
| Inheritance Tax (UAE) | 3-80% | 0%* |
Belgian Tax Obligations
Belgian tax residents may still owe Belgian tax on worldwide income depending on residency status and the Belgium-UAE tax treaty. Capital gains on private property are generally tax-free in Belgium if held over 5 years; speculative sales may be taxed. *Belgian inheritance tax may still apply to worldwide assets. Consult a fiscalist with cross-border expertise. This is not tax advice.
5-Step Buying Process
From Brussels to Dubai title deed. Here's how it works.
Research and Budget
Define your budget in EUR. Research areas (Marina, Downtown, JVC). Factor in total costs: property price + 7-8% in fees (4% DLD, 2% agency, 1-2% other).
Lock in Your Exchange Rate
EUR/AED volatility can cost you thousands. Lock a rate with a specialist broker before you commit. Potential savings vs banks: 1-3%.
Reserve the Property
Pay 10% booking deposit to secure. Sign Sales Purchase Agreement (SPA). For off-plan: Oqood registration with DLD.
Complete Payment
Transfer remaining funds per schedule. Ready property: balance on transfer. Off-plan: staged payments over 2-3 years (30/70, 50/50 plans).
Register and Collect Title
Final transfer at Dubai Land Department. Pay 4% DLD fee. Receive title deed. You now own freehold property in Dubai.
Golden Visa for Belgian Buyers
Buy AED 2M+ property, get 10-year UAE residency. No employer needed. Sponsor your family. No strict minimum stay requirement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Belgian citizens buy property in Dubai?
Yes. Belgian citizens can buy freehold property in designated areas with no restrictions. No visa required to own, though Golden Visa available through investment.
How does Dubai property tax compare to Belgium?
Dubai has 0% income tax on rental and 0% CGT. Belgium taxes rental income at marginal rates (up to 50% for the highest bracket). Capital gains on property held over 5 years are generally tax-free in Belgium.
What exchange rate will I get for EUR to AED?
Banks charge 2-4% margin. Specialist brokers offer 1-3% better rates. On an AED 2M purchase, that's potentially EUR 10,000+ saved.
How long is the flight from Belgium to Dubai?
Direct flights: ~6.5 hours from Brussels. Emirates operates daily direct services. Connections via Amsterdam or Frankfurt are also convenient.
Can I get a mortgage as a Belgian resident?
Yes. UAE banks lend to non-residents: 50-60% LTV, 25-year terms, ~4-5% rates. Need Belgian bank statements, tax filings, and proof of income.
Legal Disclaimer
This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, tax, or legal advice. Property investment carries risks including loss of capital. Exchange rates fluctuate and past performance is not indicative of future results. Belgian tax residents should consult a qualified fiscalist regarding their obligations under Belgian tax law and the Belgium-UAE tax treaty. MyCurrencyTransfer is a comparison service and does not provide property purchasing services.