Dubai is one of the seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates and is home to more than 200 nationalities. Once a small fishing village, Dubai now shares the spotlight with some of the world’s most cosmopolitan cities.
Downtown Dubai holds much of the city’s most luxurious real estate and is a prime location for those who love to be in the heart of things. Big-name hotels and luxury boutiques are mixed among green spaces with fountains, lakes, and pedestrian boulevards that weave through it all. Whether you’re by the banks of the Creek or at the top of the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, Dubai breathes innovation and possibilities. The unparalleled beauty of the Dubai coast, desert, and cityscapes make this a unique location with tons of appeal.
If you want to invest in Dubai luxury real estate, you’ll want to do plenty of research. Here’s everything you need to know about how to buy a luxury home in Dubai.
Ask your personal connections for property recommendations
There is a big learning curve when buying luxury homes, regardless of your location. While you want to learn as much as possible and do your own research, having someone by your side is always helpful. Whether this means a trusted real estate agent showing you new properties or contacting family and friends, the connections are hugely beneficial in the search process. Not only will it make things easier for you, but it will help streamline your real estate journey.
Research different neighborhoods
Dubai is home to some of the most luxurious and stunning neighborhoods you’ll ever see. Palm Jumeirah, the city’s iconic palm-shaped island, features urban island residences, five-star resorts, and decadent dining. Bur Dubai is one of the oldest neighborhoods in the city and is a continuous hub of residential and economic activity. Al Barsha is a suburb full of surprises. This popular residential spot features the Mall of the Emirates, food from around the world, and fun for people of all ages. No matter what neighborhood you choose, Dubai has something for everyone.
Work EXCLUSIVELY with a buyer’s agent who knows the area
The key to any successful home-buying experience is your real estate agent. Work exclusively with one agent for the best results always. It takes time and trust in them and work loyally and you will find that perfect home.
When considering luxury real estate in Dubai, you want someone who knows the market and the various lifestyle options offered. An experienced Dubai real estate agent will inform you of ideal properties and help you find a home that checks all the boxes. You want to feel confident in your agent and trust that they’ll guarantee an enjoyable experience. Not all real estate agents are created equal, and not all companies work with luxury properties, so take the time to find one with all the necessary tools and expertise. This will ease your mind and help you find your dream home much faster.
When researching a luxury company, it’s essential to take your time. This means interviewing potential agents and finding one that fits your needs. You’ll want an agent specializing in luxury homes with a proven track record of success.
Here are a few ways to find an agent who will work well for you:
When considering luxury real estate in Dubai, you want someone who knows the market and the various lifestyle options offered. An experienced Dubai real estate agent will inform you of ideal properties and help you find a home that checks all the boxes. You want to feel confident in your agent and trust that they’ll guarantee an enjoyable experience. Not all real estate agents are created equal, and not all companies work with luxury properties, so take the time to find one with all the necessary tools and expertise. This will ease your mind and help you find your dream home much faster.
When researching a luxury company, it’s essential to take your time. This means interviewing potential agents and finding one that fits your needs. You’ll want an agent specializing in luxury homes with a proven track record of success.
Here are a few ways to find an agent who will work well for you:
- Ask friends and relatives if they’ve recently worked with anyone in the area
- Look for online reviews and luxury agent websites
- Ensure you meet with the agent and bring a list of questions
- Your first impression is often the most honest and will help you know whether they are a good fit
Prioritize what you want in a home
Finding a home that’s right for your needs is critical to any home search. You’ll want something with ample space, whether you need entertaining areas or have a larger family. This means considering the number of bedrooms and bathrooms and any additional entertainment spaces.
Many buyers have a preset number of bedrooms and bathrooms in mind but don’t think about the future. If you only need one bedroom now but intend to grow your family, you’ll want to consider additional bedrooms. Don’t forget a home office or guest room, either. The same applies to bathrooms. Often, the number of bathrooms will make or break a home for buyers. Some prefer having at least two full baths, including an ensuite in the main bedroom. Others want plenty of additional baths or half baths for every situation.
In addition to the size and layout of the home, you’ll want to think about what luxury means to you. Luxury means different things to different people. To some, it may mean excess space in the home, while to others, it may mean plenty of land. Defining what luxury means to you is critical when you start searching because it allows you to focus on the factors you care about the most. You may want a small home but plenty of high-end materials and finishes, which can cost the same as a house three times the size, depending on the location. The key is that everyone involved knows what you are looking for and what you mean by “luxury.”
Many buyers have a preset number of bedrooms and bathrooms in mind but don’t think about the future. If you only need one bedroom now but intend to grow your family, you’ll want to consider additional bedrooms. Don’t forget a home office or guest room, either. The same applies to bathrooms. Often, the number of bathrooms will make or break a home for buyers. Some prefer having at least two full baths, including an ensuite in the main bedroom. Others want plenty of additional baths or half baths for every situation.
In addition to the size and layout of the home, you’ll want to think about what luxury means to you. Luxury means different things to different people. To some, it may mean excess space in the home, while to others, it may mean plenty of land. Defining what luxury means to you is critical when you start searching because it allows you to focus on the factors you care about the most. You may want a small home but plenty of high-end materials and finishes, which can cost the same as a house three times the size, depending on the location. The key is that everyone involved knows what you are looking for and what you mean by “luxury.”
Choose a financial planner you can trust
Looking for houses is fun, but first, you’ll need to understand your financial options. Do you know what price range you’re looking into or how much you’ll be able to use as a down payment? Will you be paying cash for the home? Do you have any idea of the loan options available to you? Doing the work to understand your options first and choosing a trustworthy financial planner will go a long way in how much money you spend in the long run.
When looking at luxury real estate, most often, you’re looking at homes you won’t be able to pay for in full. Since you’re likely to have to finance, you’ll want to know which options are best for your situation and how they affect your finances as a whole. Finding a financial planner who knows luxury real estate will help you make the best decisions for your financial future and is critical to this journey.
When looking at luxury real estate, most often, you’re looking at homes you won’t be able to pay for in full. Since you’re likely to have to finance, you’ll want to know which options are best for your situation and how they affect your finances as a whole. Finding a financial planner who knows luxury real estate will help you make the best decisions for your financial future and is critical to this journey.
See the property in person
Professional photos can make a significant difference in a home's appearance, especially when comparing it online versus in person. Photographs can sometimes make the house look more extensive or with more natural lighting than it truly has. Walking through the home in person is much more beneficial and will give you a complete picture of the home’s amenities, space, and architectural details.
Connect with an expert agent today
If you’re interested in luxury real estate in Dubai, contact trusted agent Leigh Williamson today. With more than 17 years of experience and a proven track record in the upscale market, you’ll be in excellent hands as you begin your journey to luxury.
*Header photo courtesy of Leigh Williamson
*Header photo courtesy of Leigh Williamson