Commercial
Can I buy a property in a company name in the UAE?
Yes, but it's more involved than a personal purchase. UAE banks can finance property held in a company name, including certain offshore and free zone structures, but expect a DLD-approved corporate setup, additional documentation, and generally a higher deposit than for a personal purchase.
Corporate and offshore ownership structures
Property can be registered to onshore UAE companies, and in many cases to offshore or free zone entities such as those registered in JAFZA or RAK ICC, provided the structure is on the Dubai Land Department's approved list. Not every offshore jurisdiction is accepted, and the list of eligible structures can change, so check current DLD approval before assuming a structure will work.
Whether a bank will finance the purchase, rather than just permit ownership, is a separate question from whether the Dubai Land Department will register title in the company's name. Some structures are registerable but harder to get financed, so it's worth confirming both points with your bank and a UAE-qualified lawyer before you commit funds.
What changes when financing through a company
- Banks typically ask for a higher deposit than for personal ownership, often several percentage points above the standard loan-to-value
- You'll need corporate documents: trade licence, memorandum and articles, shareholder resolutions and ultimate beneficial owner details
- Underwriting looks at the company's financials as well as, or instead of, personal income, plus personal guarantees from directors or shareholders
- Approval and process timelines are generally longer than personal purchases, often by several weeks
Company vs personal purchase at a glance
| Factor | Personal purchase | Company-name purchase |
|---|---|---|
| Typical deposit | 20-50% depending on residency | Generally higher, bank-specific |
| Documents needed | Passport, income evidence | Trade licence, financials, UBO details, guarantees |
| Process timeline | Faster, standard underwriting | Longer, structure-dependent review |
| DLD approval | Not applicable | Structure must be on the approved list |
Emirate-specific considerations
Which corporate structures are accepted, and how straightforward financing is, depends heavily on the emirate and the specific free zone or offshore jurisdiction involved. Dubai's approved offshore list differs from arrangements in Abu Dhabi or other emirates, and rules and approved lists can change, so confirm current requirements with the relevant land department and your bank before committing to a structure.
- 1Decide whether personal or corporate ownership better suits your tax, estate-planning or liability goals
- 2Confirm your chosen structure is on the relevant land department's approved list
- 3Gather corporate documents early, since these typically take longer to prepare than personal ones
- 4Compare lenders through commercial mortgage financing, since appetite for corporate deals varies significantly bank to bank
Run the numbers on your own case
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Last reviewed 5 August 2026