Selling
June 18, 2025

New Rules for Overseas Investors Selling Dubai Properties

The Dubai property market continues to perform strongly in 2025, with demand from international investors showing no signs of slowing.

A vital update from Dubai Land Department for non-resident property sellers

The Dubai property market continues to perform strongly in 2025, with demand from international investors showing no signs of slowing. But for overseas owners planning to sell property in Dubai, there’s an important new regulation they need to be aware of—especially around Power of Attorney (PoA) usage and how payments are processed.

In this post, we break down what this rule means, why it matters, and how it could impact anyone looking to sell property in Dubai while living abroad.

Project Overview: Reaching New Heights

Downtown Residences stands prominently as Deyaar’s tallest development, rising an impressive 445 meters across more than 110 storeys. This twin-tower landmark, scheduled for completion in Q4 2030, ranks among the world’s tallest residential communities, reinforcing Dubai's reputation as a global hub for ambitious architectural feats.

What Has Changed for Non-Resident Property Sellers?

As of June 2025, the Dubai Land Department (DLD) has introduced a new requirement for non-resident property owners:

All payments from a property sale must now be made directly to the seller listed on the property’s title deed.

Previously, many overseas investors selling properties in Dubai used a Power of Attorney to appoint someone—often a relative or advisor—to handle the sale and receive payments on their behalf. This will no longer be accepted.

UAE Bank Account Now Mandatory

Another critical point:
To receive proceeds from the sale, non-resident owners must maintain a bank account in the UAE. Without one, payments can’t be processed, even if a PoA is in place.

This means that if you’re planning to sell Dubai properties for sale from overseas, setting up a local bank account is now an essential first step.

Why Is This Rule Being Introduced?

The new rule is part of a broader effort by authorities to boost transparency in real estate transactions. With Dubai property for sale attracting a growing share of overseas investors, the government wants to ensure that all transactions are secure and traceable—especially with large volumes of capital involved.

This move also aligns with Dubai’s ongoing drive to become one of the most regulated and investor-friendly real estate markets in the world.

Can You Still Use a Power of Attorney?

Yes, but with limitations.

  • A PoA can still act on behalf of the seller for documentation, representation, and administrative tasks.
  • However, the payment must be made to the seller only, exactly as their name appears on the title deed.
  • The PoA must also be attested by Dubai courts, and this can even be done remotely via Zoom—making it easier for overseas owners to comply without needing to travel.

What Does This Mean for the Dubai Property Market?

This change is unlikely to slow the market, especially considering Dubai’s strong performance so far in 2025. In fact, sales from overseas buyers are already higher than 2024 levels—a testament to the continued global appeal of investing in Dubai real estate.

This update simply formalises a more robust, transparent process for those selling properties in Dubai, ensuring smoother transactions and better legal protections for all parties involved.

EasyAcres Expert Insight:

At EasyAcres, we’ve already helped dozens of international clients navigate Dubai’s updated real estate landscape. Whether you’re looking to buy or sell, our team ensures your transactions remain compliant, smooth, and stress-free.

We also work closely with UAE banks to guide non-resident investors through opening local accounts, a now-essential step for selling properties in Dubai.

If you're an overseas investor with Dubai properties for sale, here’s a quick checklist:

  • Open a UAE bank account in your name
  • Ensure all property title details are accurate and up to date
  • If using a PoA, have it attested by Dubai courts
  • Prepare to receive payments in your name only (PoAs are no longer eligible to receive sale proceeds)

Dubai’s real estate market remains one of the most attractive in the world, offering both short-term gains and long-term stability. But keeping up with evolving regulations is key—especially if you plan to sell property in Dubai while living abroad.

Recent blog

image
More Templates