Dubai Property for French Buyers
0% tax. 6.5-hour direct flights. Escape IFI wealth tax. Here's why French investors are increasingly turning to Dubai property.
Why French Buyers Choose Dubai
Escape high marginal rates and IFI wealth tax. Earn tax-free rental income. Dubai offers French investors a compelling alternative to the domestic property market.
France vs Dubai: Tax Comparison
The numbers that make French property investors reconsider.
| Tax Type | France | Dubai |
|---|---|---|
| Rental Income Tax | Up to 45% + 17.2% | 0% |
| Capital Gains Tax | 19% + 17.2% | 0% |
| Purchase Tax (Frais de notaire) | 7-8% | 4% |
| Wealth Tax (IFI) | 0.5-1.5% | None |
| Inheritance Tax (UAE) | 5-60% | 0%* |
French Tax Obligations
French tax residents may still owe French tax on worldwide income depending on residency status and the France-UAE tax treaty. Dubai property is excluded from IFI (impôt sur la fortune immobilière) calculation. *French inheritance tax may still apply to worldwide assets. Consult a fiscaliste with cross-border expertise. This is not tax advice.
5-Step Buying Process
From Paris 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 French 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 French citizens buy property in Dubai?
Yes. French 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 France?
Dubai has 0% income tax on rental and 0% CGT. France taxes rental at marginal rates (up to 45%) plus 17.2% social charges, and CGT at 19% plus social charges. Dubai property is also excluded from IFI.
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 France to Dubai?
Direct flights: ~6.5 hours from Paris CDG. Emirates and Air France operate multiple daily services. Nice and Lyon also have direct connections.
Can I get a mortgage as a French resident?
Yes. UAE banks lend to non-residents: 50-60% LTV, 25-year terms, ~4-5% rates. Need French bank statements, avis d'imposition, 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. French tax residents should consult a qualified fiscaliste or expert-comptable regarding their obligations under French tax law and the France-UAE tax treaty. MyCurrencyTransfer is a comparison service and does not provide property purchasing services.