Buying Into Utopia: real estate options in Dubai

The rich culture of Dubai draws on both its ancient Arabian heritage and its vast modern technology. For centuries a land devoted mainly to herding, Dubai, a semi-autonomous state of the United Arab Emirates, was rocketed into modern times by the discovery of oil in 1966. Enormous riches funded by oil production have produced a native population which, in the main, is well educated, healthy and highly paid.

Almost any type of sport has found a home in Dubai. Polo fields and golf courses abound. The richest horse racing event in the world, The Dubai World Cup, is run on a Dubai track, and water sports from the most adventurous to the most tranquil are available in the warm waters off of Dubai’s white sand beaches. More traditional sporting events, such as camel racing and falconry, also thrive in Dubai.

Sophistication is one of the hallmarks of Dubai culture. World class cosmopolitan restaurants sit next to local establishments serving the best in local cuisine. Shopping in Dubai is amongst the best in the world. There are no local taxes on purchases, and for those skilled at bartering, the souks (markets) offer vast opportunities for bargains on indigenous goods.

Dubai is served by 90 airlines and London is only seven hours away by plane. Arabic is the spoken language but English is heavily used. Dubai is an Islamic country, and foreign Dubai property owners should show respect for Islamic religious traditions. In return, the Dubai people offer tolerance for differing lifestyles. Alcohol is available within the confines of hotel restaurants and clubs. Unescorted women may travel freely, but modesty in clothing is recommended.

Knowing that its oil reserves are not limitless, Dubai has moved to diversify its economy. Tourism has become an important source of revenue. Development of Palm Island is a major tourist and economic initiative.

Palm Island – Deira is the largest of the three Palm Islands. A unique man-made structure the Palm Islands can be seen from space by the naked eye. A trunk, a 41-frond crown and a water breaking crescent island form Palm Island. Nearly eight thousand villas and apartment homes, private and public beaches, shopping, recreation and sports facilities will be part of this luxury development. Two of its eight communities are already sold out. Many Dubai Palm Island properties are luxurious million-pound playgrounds for the very wealthy. Reasonably priced flats are also available, but will likely go quickly as an aggressive marketing plan is implemented.

Dubai property is held in similar high regard. Demand for property in Dubai has surged driven by the recent ability of foreigners to hold real-estate. Dubai’s safe lifestyle, favourable tax rates (no income or capital gains tax on property rental or sales and no stamp duty on freehold property) and perceived property value have also all contributed to current high interest in buying property in Dubai.

A variety of Dubai property from high-rises with stunning vistas to sparkling marina homes is offered at prices suitable for families and individuals with a range of financial capabilities. From ‘ranches’ to golf- side luxury developments, Dubai offers a wealth of choice. Consult one of the professional estate-agents listed on the site below to further explore the advantages of owning property in Dubai, or to guide you through the best options for foreign ownership.

The worldwide property portal aHome.in has properties from many different estate-agents in Dubai making it easy for you to contact them about property for sale.

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