Facts checked on October 18, 2026
Who can buy where
In Dubai, foreigners can buy freehold only in areas designated by the Ruler. That list has been extended several times since 2006.
In Morocco, foreigners can freely buy and sell urban residential property. Agricultural land outside urban areas is reserved for Moroccans and companies.
Buying process and title
In Dubai, the transfer runs through the Dubai Land Department and an approved trustee office. Off-plan sales are first entered in the Oqood interim register.
In Morocco, the transfer must be made by authentic deed before a notary or adoul, or by an approved lawyer. Check the certificat de propriété at the ANCFCC first, and prefer a home with a titre foncier.
How the costs are structured
The amounts differ, but the structure is similar: a transfer duty, registration fees and the fee of the professional who draws up the deed.
- Dubai: 4% DLD fee, fixed title deed and admin fees, a trustee fee, and 0.25% mortgage registration if you borrow
- Morocco: 4% registration duty for a built home, 1.5% plus 100 dirhams land registry fee, and the notary's fee
- Owning in Dubai: no annual property tax found, but RERA-approved service charges
- Owning in Morocco: taxe d'habitation and taxe de services communaux, reduced or exempt for a main residence
- Selling in Morocco: 20% tax on the gain, at least 3% of the price, with exemptions
Off-plan purchases and protection
In Dubai, off-plan payments go into the project's escrow account and can only fund that project. The developer is liable for structural defects for ten years.
In Morocco, off-plan sales (VEFA) follow legal payment stages during construction, with a completion or refund guarantee.
Mortgages in Dubai and Morocco
In Dubai, the Central Bank sets the caps. For expats it is 80% on a first home up to AED 5 million, 60% on a second home and 50% off-plan. The maximum term is 25 years. The regulation also has a separate article on Sharia-compliant finance.
In Morocco, MRE can borrow up to 80% in dirhams since 2026. Participative banks offer Islamic financing through Mourabaha. For other foreigners, each bank sets its own terms.
Residence, distance and use
Property worth at least AED 2 million in Dubai can qualify you for a renewable ten-year Golden Visa. In Morocco, property gives no right of residence. Beyond ninety days you need a residence card, for example as a visitor living on your own means.
Morocco is a short flight from Western Europe and in a nearby time zone. Dubai is further away and more often chosen for relocating, working or investing. In my conversations I first ask what you want to use the home for.
Your home country may tax foreign property; Dutch residents, for example, declare it in box 3. Check your own situation with a tax adviser.
Frequently asked questions
Is it better to buy property in Dubai or Morocco?
It depends on your goal. Dubai suits buyers who want to live there or need residence. Morocco suits buyers who want to be near family or use the home themselves.
Does buying property in Morocco give you residency?
No. Morocco does not link residence to property ownership. To stay longer than ninety days you apply for a residence card, for example as a visitor with your own means.
What are the buying costs in Dubai vs Morocco?
In Dubai you pay a 4% DLD fee plus fixed fees. In Morocco you pay 4% registration duty on a built home, a 1.5% land registry fee and the notary's fee.
Can foreigners get a mortgage in both Dubai and Morocco?
In Dubai, Central Bank caps apply and each bank assesses you. In Morocco, MRE can borrow up to 80%, while other foreigners depend on each bank's own terms.
