Commercial
Properties in Dubai

DIFC remains the premier address for financial and professional services, with rents of AED 2,000-3,500 per sqft annually. Business Bay offers mid-tier offices at AED 1,200-2,000 per sqft. JLT clusters provide value at AED 800-1,500 per sqft. Downtown Dubai and City Walk command retail premiums. Industrial buyers look at Dubai Investment Park, Jebel Ali Free Zone, and Ras Al Khor.

Yes, foreigners can buy freehold commercial property in designated zones across Dubai, including DIFC, Business Bay, JLT, Downtown, and many free zones. Foreign ownership of 100% of a mainland company has been allowed since 2021 under the amended Commercial Companies Law. ZARIN advises on the right structure based on your business activity and trade license requirements.

As of 2026, prime DIFC office rents are AED 2,200-3,500 per sqft per year. Business Bay offices trade at AED 1,400-2,200 per sqft. JLT and Barsha Heights range AED 800-1,500 per sqft. Retail in Downtown and Marina commands AED 3,500-7,000 per sqft annually. Industrial spaces range AED 60-150 per sqft depending on location and fit-out.

Generally yes. Commercial property in Dubai offers net yields of 7-10% (after service charges), compared to 5-7% gross for residential. The higher yield compensates for higher risk — longer void periods, tenant credit risk, and more complex management. Premium DIFC and Downtown commercial assets have lower yields (5-7%) but stronger capital preservation.

Commercial leases typically run 1-3 years, sometimes up to 5 years for larger spaces. Multi-year leases often include escalation clauses (3-5% annual). Most commercial leases are 'triple net' — the tenant pays service charges, utilities, and maintenance. Registration with Ejari is required for all commercial tenancies.

For corporate buyers: trade license copy, MOA, board resolution authorizing the purchase, and KYC documents for shareholders. For individual buyers: passport copy, Emirates ID, and proof of funds. Free zone property requires a free zone company registration. ZARIN guides you through the exact structure based on your business activity.

Yes. ZARIN provides tenant representation services — finding suitable commercial spaces, negotiating leases, and coordinating fit-out. We represent both landlords and tenants, always disclosing our role. Tenant rep is typically free to the tenant as the landlord pays the commission. We also handle lease renewals and disposals for existing tenants.

Free zone commercial property (DIFC, DMCC, JLT) offers benefits like 100% foreign ownership, potential qualifying income tax benefits under UAE Corporate Tax Law 2023, and 100% capital repatriation. However, you typically cannot operate a mainland business from a free zone office. The investment case depends on your business structure and activity.