FREE TOOL · DUBAI 2026
Enter your numbers to find the break-even point between renting and buying in Dubai. See when purchasing beats renting — and by how much.
Cross-check your numbers with the Dubai mortgage calculator, review current properties for sale in Dubai, or compare service charges and yields in our net yield calculator.
The rent vs buy decision in Dubai depends on four key factors:
Renting is financially better when the gross yield exceeds your all-in mortgage cost. Dubai's 6–8% gross yields often favour buying for long-term holders.
Dubai prime property has appreciated 50–80% since 2020. Long-term buyers who hold 5+ years have typically outperformed renters in wealth-building.
Renting offers mobility — ideal if your career or life plans are fluid. Buying suits those committed to Dubai as a long-term base.
Dubai has zero property capital gains tax and zero rental income tax for individuals. This dramatically improves the after-tax return on bought property vs most other cities.
At current mortgage rates (4.5–5.5%), monthly mortgage payments on a purchased property are often similar to or higher than rent. However, buyers build equity and benefit from capital appreciation. The break-even point is typically 4–7 years in most Dubai communities.
Dubai's average gross rental yield of 6–8% means that annual rent equals 6–8% of the purchase price. This implies a rent-to-price ratio of 12–17x annual rent — lower than London (25x) or Singapore (30x), making buying relatively more attractive than in many global cities.
Yes. Non-residents can get UAE mortgages at up to 75% LTV (25% down payment). Resident borrowers can access 80% LTV. Most major UAE banks (Emirates NBD, ADCB, Mashreq, HSBC UAE) offer non-resident mortgage products.
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WhatsApp Our Team NowDubai's average gross rental yield of 6–8% makes buying relatively attractive compared to global cities. The typical break-even point between renting and buying in Dubai is 4–7 years, factoring in upfront costs (DLD fee 4%, agent commission 2%), mortgage rates (4.5–5.5% in 2026), and capital appreciation. Dubai imposes zero capital gains tax and zero personal income tax, significantly improving the after-tax return on owned property. Non-residents can access mortgages at up to 75% LTV with a 25% down payment.
Source: DLD, UAE Central Bank, Astraterra Properties analysis 2026 · View all Dubai market data →