A step-by-step guide for Indian investors purchasing Dubai off-plan property — from RERA verification to LRS remittance and Golden Visa application.
Indian investors remain the single largest foreign buyer group in Dubai real estate. Under the RBI Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS), each resident Indian can remit up to USD 250,000 per financial year for property purchase abroad — sufficient for the down payment on most Dubai off-plan units.
Step 1 — Shortlist RERA-registered projects. Every legitimate off-plan project must be registered with Dubai's Real Estate Regulatory Agency and have an Oqood (interim registration) issued.
Step 2 — Verify the escrow account. Funds must flow into a developer-specific escrow account regulated under Law No. 8 of 2007. Never transfer to a personal or developer-operating account.
Step 3 — Sign the Sale & Purchase Agreement (SPA) and pay the booking amount (typically 10–20%). The SPA, Oqood and payment-plan schedule are your primary legal documents.
Step 4 — Remit via LRS. Use Form A2 with your bank, retain the SWIFT confirmations and tax exemption certificates. These are required for both Indian compliance and your future UAE Golden Visa file.
Step 5 — Apply for the Golden Visa post-handover if the property value exceeds AED 2M — granting you and immediate family 10-year UAE residency.
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