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As Indian investors increasingly diversify beyond domestic assets, the UAE, particularly Dubai, has emerged as a preferred destination for real estate capital. The scale of activity underscores this shift. According to Dubai’s Land Department, the emirate recorded 125,538 real estate transactions worth AED 431 billion in the first half of 2025, along with AED 326 billion in investments from 94,717 investors[1].
For Indian investors, this trend has moved well beyond anecdotal interest. A recent industry report indicates that Indians accounted for roughly 22% of Dubai’s property buyers in 2024, with investments estimated at AED 35 billion[2]. Ankur Aggarwal, the chairman and founder of BNW Developments, one of the largest real-estate developers in the UAE, believes this growing footprint presents a strategic opportunity, provided investors adopt a disciplined approach. “The next phase of growth won’t be driven by hype,” Aggarwal says. “In 2026, successful investors will focus on strong locations, realistic rental income, and long-term value, instead of short-term profits.”
A key factor underpinning this attractiveness is the UAE’s tax-efficient structure. The country does not levy income tax on individuals, and under the current framework, capital gains tax is also not imposed on individual property investors. Aggarwal explains the advantage in simple terms, “When you don’t have to pay income or capital gains tax every year, more of your returns stay invested. Over time, this allows rental income and property value to grow faster through compounding.” That said, he cautions investors to factor in transaction and holding costs, including the 4% Dubai Land Department transfer fee and ongoing service charges[3].
Beyond financial returns, Dubai’s property-linked Golden Visa has added another layer of comfort for long-term investors. “For many Indian families, getting residency is not the main goal,” Aggarwal notes, “but having that option adds security and reduces risk.”
Finally, broader economic fundamentals continue to support the outlook. The UAE recorded FDI inflows of approximately $45.6 billion in 2024, reinforcing job creation, business growth, and housing demand[4]. Against this backdrop, Aggarwal advises for the upcoming year, “Follow end-user infrastructure corridors, choose assets with strong rental depth, and align investments with the UAE’s long-term growth cycle, not just today’s headlines.”
