Owning property in Dubai is one of the most impactful investment decisions you can make, offering a unique chance to diversify your portfolio with high-quality assets from one of the world's most dynamic markets. Don't miss this remarkable opportunity to capitalize on Dubai's booming real estate sector, but before you dive in, carefully evaluate several key factors. 9 Things You Should Know Before Buying Property in DubaiThe State of the Dubai EconomyDemographics and Future GrowthUnderstanding the Dubai Land Department & Ownership TypesFreehold & Leasehold AreasIdentifying Your Reason for InvestmentChoosing the Right Location for Your Investment GoalsHow to Research Areas and DevelopersMortgages and Capital RequirementsCommon Questions for Property Investors (FAQ) The State of the Dubai Economy Dubai's economy surged by 3.3% in the first nine months of 2023, showcasing robust growth driven by enhanced export performance and revitalized domestic demand. Significant expansions were noted in accommodation and food services (11.1% growth) and transportation and storage (10.9% increase). The real estate sector also grew by 4.0%, highlighting Dubai's evolving infrastructure and its capability to attract international events and tourism. Demographics and Future Growth Dubai carries very high prospects for its residents and investors, with a high pace of growth, doubling, even tripling in comparison to its prior urban size.  The city is currently witnessing the construction of many large-scale infrastructures and real estate projects, and with more world-renowned events to be held in the city, Dubai is bound to see huge developments in the hospitality, commercial, and recreational real estate arenas. Dubai is known for being a melting pot of cultures, with a population of approximately 2.7 million, where about 88% are expats. Major global corporations have set up regional offices in Dubai, which encourages professional executives to work in its sophisticated facilities and business centers. A significant portion of the population comes from Central Asian ethnicities. Understanding the Dubai Land Department & Ownership Types The Dubai Land Department (DLD) is responsible for regulating and monitoring real estate market activity within Dubai. As per law no. 7 issued in 2013 by His Highness Dubai ruler, the department's main roles include the registration, organization, and promotion of investment in Dubai properties. The DLD implements international standards to create a positive and attractive investment environment for the global real estate sector. Freehold & Leasehold Areas Freehold: In 2000, Dubai authorities made it accessible for foreigners to buy properties in designated freehold areas such as Um Hurair, Al Barsha, Emirates Hills, and Jebel Ali. Leasehold: Full ownership isn't permitted in all areas; some properties are only available on lease terms varying between 10 and 99 years. Leasehold areas include Deira, Discovery Garden, and Jumeirah Identifying Your Reason for Investment You need to set your objective before setting off on a property search in Dubai, to define the purpose or reason for your purchase. If you are looking for investment, then you should consult your agent as there are certain areas considered to be perfect for property investment. The good factors of the property can be its high rental value, high capital growth rate per year, and surrounded by many amenities and commercial centres. On the other hand, if you are looking for a house to live and settle in in Dubai, then you ought to look for convenient areas suitable for you and your family's requirements. You should assess locations for the best schools, hospitals, recreational centres, and other prerequisites for the property you want. We at IQI Dubai have a dedicated team of experienced brokers actively servicing client requirements with satisfaction. Choosing the Right Location for Your Investment Goals When considering the purchase of residential buildings, this location is worthwhile considering. Property NameWhy ConsiderKey HighlightsPrice Range (AED)Property URLDowntown DubaiPrestigious location with iconic landmarks like Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall.High-end properties, vibrant lifestyle, excellent connectivity.1.5M - 5M+Official websiteDubai MarinaSought-after waterfront community with a mix of high-rise apartments and villas.Waterfront living, bustling community, modern amenities.1.2M - 4M+Property informationPalm JumeirahIconic man-made island known for luxury villas, beachfront apartments, and five-star resorts.Luxury living, private beach access, world-class amenities.3M - 10M+Property listingBusiness BayRapidly developing area that blends commercial and residential properties. Ideal for professionals.Proximity to Downtown Dubai, modern infrastructure, mixed-use development.1M - 3.5M+Listed on IQI GlobalJumeirah Village CircleAffordable option popular among families and young professionals, offering a mix of apartments, villas, and townhouses.Affordable prices, family-friendly environment, growing community.800K - 2.5M+Listed on IQI GlobalArabian RanchesTranquil suburban environment with spacious villas, lush landscapes, and excellent community facilities.Family-oriented, suburban living, excellent community facilities.2M - 6M+Check it out on EmaarDubai Hills EstateMaster-planned community known for green spaces, golf course, and luxury properties. Ideal for families.Green community, luxury properties, extensive amenities.1.5M - 5M+Listed on EmaarThe Greens and The ViewsMid-range apartments surrounded by greenery, with easy access to Sheikh Zayed Road. Popular among young professionals and small families.Green spaces, central location, affordable options.1M - 2.5M+Official website Each of these locations offers unique benefits depending on your investment goals, whether it's high rental yields, luxury living, or long-term capital appreciation. It's important to consider your priorities and consult with a local real estate expert to find the area that best suits your needs. How to Research Areas and Developers Generally, Dubai is a haven in the Middle East; it provides an efficient police and security system that utilizes extremely advanced techniques in ensuring harmony & order within society. Investors should be very careful about the location and type of property. There are some things you need to check, such as the developer's track record, land department verifications, the site selected etc. Today many investors/end users, dealing with us, tend to acquire top real estate brands in Dubai, since these developers offer the highest credibility, transparency and professionalism in conducting transactions. While Dubai’s property buying process is transparent, the outcome often depends on who you work with. Project selection, pricing, and after-sales support can vary widely without proper local guidance. Buyers looking for verified listings and professional advice can connect directly with IQI agents through IQI Dubai, a global platform that links investors with trusted on-the-ground expertise. Mortgages and Capital Requirements Another important thing you need to know before buying a property in Dubai is the real estate finance system in the Emirates. There are financing services available for property buyers; however it is restricted only to banks and companies authorized by the United Arab Emirates Central Bank. Most home loans in Dubai are offered at a rate ranging from 3 to 4 per cent. To get a mortgage, the creditor must check the investor eligibility to assess his financial capability of paying back the debt. This is determined through several factors like; the minimum salary, the minimum length of service, the company which the buyer works for, and so on. Common Questions for Property Investors (FAQ) Can foreigners truly own property in Dubai?+ Yes, but only in designated Freehold Areas (e.g., Dubai Marina, Downtown, Dubai Hills). In these areas, foreigners have 100% ownership of both the property and the land indefinitely. In "Leasehold" areas, you only own the rights to the property for a fixed term, usually up to 99 years. What are the "hidden" costs of buying?+ Beyond the sticker price, you should budget for: DLD Fee: 4% of the property value (paid to the Dubai Land Department). Agency Fee: Typically 2% of the purchase price. Service Charges: Annual fees for building maintenance, usually calculated per square foot (ranging from AED 10 to AED 30+). Trustee/Registration Fees: Approximately AED 2,000–4,000. What kind of ROI (Return on Investment) can I expect?+ In 2026, average gross rental yields in Dubai are typically between 5% and 8%. Short-term rentals (Airbnb style) in tourist hubs like Palm Jumeirah can push yields higher (up to 10%+), but come with higher management costs. Capital appreciation varies by area, with villas currently seeing higher growth due to limited supply compared to apartments. What happens if a developer doesn't finish a project?+ Dubai has strict protections. Developers must place all buyer payments into a RERA-regulated Escrow Account. Funds are only released as construction milestones are met. If a project is cancelled, the Dubai Land Department has a formal process to liquidate assets and refund investors. Is a residency visa required to buy property?+ No. You can purchase and own property as a non-resident. However, many investors choose to buy specifically to qualify for a residency visa like Golden Visa. Here at IQI, we have a global presence with dedicated teams to assist you with any international inquiries. Ask now and get a free consultation curated just for you! [custom_blog_form] Continue reading: The Beginner’s Guide to Property Investment in Malaysia Leasehold VS Freehold: Which is the better offer of a lifetime? 4 Essential Agent Fees When Selling a House in Malaysia 2026

Version: BM TL;DRBuying property in Malaysia is not just about “can I afford the instalment”. The safest buyers do 6 checks: research, budget, property type and title, developer credibility, location reality, and the risks investors often underestimate (cash flow, rental demand, and doing DLP properly). If you get these right, you reduce expensive surprises and buyer’s regret. Why This Matters Buying a home should feel exciting, not stressful. But the truth is, many people only realise what they missed after they sign the SPA. This guide keeps it simple; just focus on these 6 factors! Key Takeaways The best property decisions are not made by “best deal”, but by the best fundamentals. Your biggest mistake is usually not the house. It is the developer, the location, or the hidden costs. For investors, ROI alone can be misleading if rental demand and cash flow do not support it. Always use DLP (Defect Liability Period) properly. It is your strongest protection after vacant possession. Important Factors Every Homebuyer Must CheckWhy This MattersKey TakeawaysDo Proper Research Before Purchasing a UnitBudget Properly, Not Just the Monthly PaymentUnderstanding Property Types and TitlesDeveloper Credibility is EssentialStudy the Location and Sight ThoroughlyRisks Investors Often Underestimate Do Proper Research Before Purchasing a Unit Most people start by browsing portals. That’s fine, but research must go deeper than photos and price. Checklist Can you see yourself living there daily (commute, safety, noise, parking)? What is nearby (schools, LRT/MRT, shops, hospital)? Is it a new launch, under construction, a subsale, or a completed unit? What is the real selling point: lifestyle, convenience, rental demand, or future growth? Quick tip (BM)Jangan tengok harga sahaja. Tengok juga akses, kemudahan, dan siapa pembeli sebenar di kawasan tu. Budget Properly, Not Just the Monthly Payment The common trap: “instalment ok”, then you get hit by legal fees, stamp duty, insurance, and renovation. Budget items you should prepare (simple view) Cost CategoryWhat it includesWhy it mattersUpfront cashDown payment, SPA legal fees, stamp duty, loan feesDetermines if you can even startMonthly commitmentHome loan instalment, maintenance fee, sinking fundAffects monthly lifestyle and savingsYearly costsCukai pintu (assessment tax), quit rent or parcel rent, insuranceOften forgotten until bills come If you want a safe buying experience, keep an emergency buffer after paying your down payment. Do not finish all your cash just to “secure the unit”. Understanding Property Types and Titles Before you choose based on design, understand what you are buying legally. Property types Condo, serviced apartment, SOHO Terrace, semi-D, bungalow Dual key Title basics Freehold: permanent ownership Leasehold: fixed term (commonly 99 years), renewal terms may apply Strata title: common for high-rise and gated communities, shared facilities Individual title: landed properties This affects: resale appeal maintenance responsibility management quality long-term value perception Developer Credibility is Essential If you buy under construction, you are not only buying a home. You are buying the developer’s ability to deliver. What to check Track record: completed projects and delivery reputation Licensing and approvals (ask for proof) Financial strength and contractor stability How they handle defects and complaints Buyer mindset you should keepA nice showroom is not proof of quality. Track record is. Study the Location and Sight Thoroughly This is where many first-time buyers and investors regret later. You must do a real site check: Morning rush hour and nighttime Flood risk, traffic bottlenecks, nand oise level Surrounding supply (too many similar units can hurt rental) Who actually lives there: families, students, workers, expats? Simple principle:A cheap property in a weak location is not a bargain. It is a long-term headache. Risks Investors Often Underestimate This factor is the difference between “good on paper” and “good in real life”. Q1. What risks do investors underestimate most? Some investors focus too much on ROI percentages, but forget that strong cash flow, good location, and real rental demand are what keep Malaysian property investments stable. ROI alone can be misleading High ROI on paper does not mean the property is easy to rent or sustainable Some projects show “nice numbers” but struggle with vacancyInvestors who ignore fundamentals are the ones who regret it later. Q2. How have market conditions changed the risk level today? Malaysia’s interest rate is actually very friendly nowadays, and this causes the monthly instalment to be lower, and people find it easier to get a loan. Meaning: buyers feel more confident to enter, but investors still need to check fundamentals because cheaper instalment does not guarantee rental demand. Q3. One risk you’ve seen investors regret not considering enough? Many first-time investors chase cheap properties, but ignore the location and don’t take the time to really visit and understand the site. The best correction: stop looking at ONE factor only. Use DLP and the DLP mindset properly Here is the simplest way to stay grounded before you buy: The “DLP” mindset to avoid regretWhat to doDeveloperStudy track record, approvals, delivery historyLocationStudy track record, approvals, and delivery historyPriceVisit, observe real demand, check access, and daily livability And after you get vacant possession, use DLP (Defect Liability Period) seriously: Inspect carefully Record defects with photos Submit in writing within the timelines Follow up until fixed This is how smart buyers protect themselves. Final Thoughts If you remember one thing, let it be this: Buying property in Malaysia is safest when you check the developer, location, price, and you stay realistic about rental demand and cash flow. Promotions come and go. Fundamentals stay. If you want, send me your target audience (first homebuyer, upgrader, investor, foreigner) and preferred angle (more financial, more lifestyle, more legal), and I will tailor the same 6-factor structure to match your exact campaign. Ready to take the next step in your property investment adventures? Enquire here to get in touch with our trained professionals to find the right fit for you! [custom_blog_form] Continue Reading: How to Avoid Buying an Abandoned House Project in Malaysia Earn in SGD With Your Property: Why Investing in the Johor-Singapore SEZ is a Smart Move! 6 Common Home Mistakes That Could Stop You From Owning a Second Property

TL;DRMalaysia is revolutionizing its real estate sector with 5 major property initiatives in 2026 under the "Madani Housing Reforms." The ultimate goal is to achieve zero abandoned projects by 2030. Key reforms include the introduction of the Real Property Development Bill (protecting commercial buyers), the mandatory use of Electronic Sale & Purchase Agreements (e-SPA), and real-time digital tracking via the HIMS and TEDUH systems. With stricter HDA audits of developer funds and continued affordability incentives such as the Housing Credit Guarantee Scheme (SJKP), the market is shifting toward a safer, tech-driven, and more transparent environment for all homebuyers. Have you ever scrolled through property listings, dreaming of your new home, only to have a nagging voice in the back of your head ask, "What if the developer runs away with my money?" It’s a valid fear. For years, the nightmare of "sick" or abandoned projects has haunted Malaysian homebuyers. But here is the good news: 2026 is shaping up to be the turning point. The government has declared an all-out war on abandoned projects with a bold "Zero Abandonment by 2030" goal. With new digital laws, transparent tracking systems, and stricter audits, the days of flying blind are over. In this guide, we will break down the 5 major reforms designed to protect your wallet and your peace of mind. Key Takeaways: Zero Abandonment Goal: The government aims to eliminate abandoned housing projects by 2030 through incentives and strict reforms. Digital Transparency: New systems such as HIMS and e-SPA will digitize contract and tracking processes, making it harder for funds to be misappropriated. Better Protection: Laws are expanding to protect commercial property buyers and to enforce stricter audits of developers' bank accounts. Affordability First: Initiatives such as the Housing Credit Guarantee Scheme (SJKP) and stamp duty exemptions continue to support first-time buyers in 2026. What You Should Know About New Property Reforms in 20261. What Are the 5 New Property Reforms in Malaysia 2026?2. Why Is Malaysia Targeting Zero Abandoned Housing Projects by 2030?3. How Will the Budget 2026 Initiatives Help Your Wallet?4. What Data Technology Is Improving Property Market Transparency?5. Frequently Asked Questions ( FAQs) 1. What Are the 5 New Property Reforms in Malaysia 2026? Source: KPKT Facebook If you think property laws are boring, think again! These changes directly affect your bank account safety. The Ministry of Housing and Local Government (KPKT) is rolling out what they call the Madani Housing Reforms. These aren't just minor tweaks but a massive upgrade to the housing market's software. Let’s look at the 5 big changes arriving to keep you safe. Real Property Development Bill: A proposed new law expected to replace existing acts. The big win here? It finally extends protection to commercial property buyers (such as those buying SoHo or office units), who previously had a narrower legal safety net than residential buyers. Electronic Sale & Purchase Agreement (e-SPA): Say goodbye to stacks of paper. This moves the signing process online, making it secure, traceable, and tamper-proof. Housing Integrated Management System (HIMS): The digital backbone. It allows the government to monitor a project from start to finish in real-time. National Housing Data Bank (TEDUH): A portal where you can check a developer’s track record before you pay a deposit. Housing Development Account (HDA) Audits: Crucial. It gives authorities the power to review and even freeze developer accounts if they suspect your funds aren't being used for construction. Want to sign e-SPA, but don't know what to do? You might want to read this article! >> What is iDsaya? Malaysia Government’s Digital ID & Guide to eSPA Signing << You might think it's not relevant to you. Let me give you an example to explain why this matters: Let’s say Amir bought a house in 2020. He signed a paper contract, paid his deposit, and hoped for the best. When the developer encountered cash-flow issues, Amir didn't learn of them until construction completely stopped. He was left in the dark. Now, meet Sara, who plans to buy in 2026. Sara checks the TEDUH system to see her developer's track record. She signs an e-SPA, which is instantly logged in the HIMS system. If the developer attempts to misuse the construction funds, the new HDA Audits can flag the issue early and freeze the account to protect the remaining funds. Sara has data on her side; Amir only had hope. For navigating these high-tech changes, it helps to have a guide who speaks the language of data. IQI Global is a PropTech leader that blends traditional real estate with advanced technology. With our IQI Atlas SuperApp and a network of 65,000+ agents, we prioritize transparency and data to help you navigate these new digital systems with confidence. If you want a team that is already future-proofed, join IQI Global today! 2. Why Is Malaysia Targeting Zero Abandoned Housing Projects by 2030? The target is ambitious: Zero abandoned projects by 2030. But why now? The reality is that "sick" projects hurt everyone. They trap homebuyers in debt for homes they can't live in and scare away foreign investors. As of late 2025, the "Sick and Abandoned Private Housing Project Task Force" (TFST) had already revived more than 1,200 projects, but prevention is better than cure. a. The New Strategy: Build-Then-Sell (BTS) To hit that zero target, the government is pushing developers toward a Build-Then-Sell 10:90 concept. This means you pay 10% down, and you don't pay the rest until the house is fully completed. This shifts the risk from you to the developer. Developers who adopt this safer model will likely receive special incentives under the 13th Malaysia Plan. It’s a win-win: you get a guaranteed house, and developers get government perks. 3. How Will the Budget 2026 Initiatives Help Your Wallet? Safety is great, but affordability is king. The Budget 2026, tabled by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, aims to keep homes reachable for the rakyat. Here is a simple checklist of the financial perks you can use: ✅ Stamp Duty Waiver: First-time buyers get a full exemption on stamp duty for homes up to RM500,000 (Extended to Dec 2027). ✅ Guaranteed Loans: The Housing Credit Guarantee Scheme (SJKP) has been topped up to RM20 billion. This helps gig workers (such as Grab drivers or freelancers) who lack traditional pay stubs access loans. ✅ Youth Housing: The Youth Housing Financing Scheme is extended to 2026, offering up to RM1 million in financing for young civil servants. a. A Note for Foreign Buyers: If you are a foreign investor, note that the stamp duty on foreign ownership is set to increase from approximately 4% to 8%. While this is a hike, it helps ensure the market remains stable and prioritizes locals, though it may slightly cool high-end speculation. 4. What Data Technology Is Improving Property Market Transparency? Source: KPKT Facebook In the past, determining whether a developer was reliable was like finding a needle in a haystack. You had to rely on word-of-mouth. In 2026, transparency is going digital. The National Housing Data Bank (TEDUH) is being upgraded. It’s essentially a "blacklist checker," and a project tracker rolled into one. You can log on, search for a project, and see if it's delayed ("sick") or abandoned. Combined with HIMS, the entire supply chain, from the moment a developer applies for a license to the moment you get your keys, is recorded online. This significantly reduces the chance of "double-booking" units or developers hiding delays. a. Old Way vs. New Way (2026) FeatureThe Old Way (Pre-2025)The New Way (2026 onwards)AgreementManual paper contracts (hard to track)e-SPA (Digital, secure, instant)Money SafetyHard to verify where money wentHDA Audits (Regulators track funds)Project Status"Wait and see" / Drive by the siteTEDUH Portal (Online real-time status)ProtectionMostly residential onlyIncludes Commercial units too When dealing with such a tech-driven market, you want an agency that moves fast. IQI Global is known for our high-tech approach, using data analytics to match buyers with the right properties across 35+ countries. Whether you are a local buyer or a global investor needing clarity on the Malaysian market, IQI’s tech ecosystem keeps you one step ahead. Contact us to find your safe haven. Source: KPKT Facebook 2026 marks a definitive turning point for Malaysian real estate. The shift toward full transparency through systems such as HIMS, TEDUH, and e-SPA restores vital trust in the market. With the bold goal of zero abandoned projects by 2030 and legal protections finally extending to commercial units, the "Madani Housing Reforms" ensure that homeownership is no longer an unreachable dream. This new ecosystem prioritizes safety and accountability, creating the perfect environment for you to confidently secure your future home. 5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) What is the main goal of the Madani Housing Reforms in 2026? The main goal is to create a more transparent, efficient, and trustworthy housing market, with a specific target of achieving "zero abandoned projects" by 2030. How does the electronic Sale & Purchase Agreement (e-SPA) help me? The e-SPA protects you by digitalizing the contract. This prevents tampering, enables remote signing, and ensures the government has an instant record of your purchase to prevent fraud. Will house prices drop because of these new regulations? Likely not. Prices are expected to remain stable or rise slightly, driven by the "quality" focus. However, the compliance costs for developers might prevent prices from dropping significantly. Can foreign investors still buy property in Malaysia in 2026? Yes, but be aware that the stamp duty for foreign buyers is proposed to increase to 8% to prioritize local ownership and stabilize the market. What should I check on the TEDUH portal? You should use TEDUH to check your developer’s background, see if they have any past abandoned projects, and view the real-time progress of the housing project you are interested in. Is it safe to buy "under construction" property now? It is becoming much safer due to stricter HDA audits and monitoring. However, pursuing "Build-Then-Sell" projects remains the safest option, as you only pay full price upon completion. Who can apply for the SJKP Housing Credit Guarantee Scheme? This scheme is designed for people without fixed-income documents, such as freelancers, gig-economy workers (such as e-hailing drivers), and independent business owners. Continue Reading What Is iDsaya? Malaysia Government’s Digital ID & Guide to eSPA Signing Claim Your Tax Reliefs When Filing Your Taxes! | List of Personal Income Tax Relief 2026 Malaysia How to File Income Tax in Malaysia in 2026? (Full Guide) Reference Bernama. (2025, September 23). TFST Revives Sick, Abandoned Housing Projects Worth RM121.44 Billion. Retrieved fromhttps://www.bernama.com/en/general/news.php?id=2470345 Chew, R. (2025, December 30). Cover Story: Cautious nod for Malaysia’s housing sector overhaul. The Edge Malaysia. Retrieved fromhttps://theedgemalaysia.com/node/786316 Poh, R. (2026, January 13). Prominent land deals on the cards in 2026. The Edge. Retrieved fromhttps://theedgemalaysia.com/node/788166 Raine & Horne. (n.d.). Budget 2026 Malaysia: Impact on real estate & housing. Retrieved fromhttps://raineandhorne.com.my/budget-2026-malaysia-real-estate-housing/ The Sun. (2025, September 12). No more abandoned housing projects by 2030. Retrieved fromhttps://thesun.my/news/malaysia-news/no-more-abandoned-housing-projects-by-2030-bf14885576/