UAE: What First-Time Property Investors Should Know Before Buying

Monday, 14 July 2025

Young professionals in the UAE earning between AED 10,000 and AED 15,000 are being encouraged to adopt smart savings habits and explore new real estate investment options such as tokenisation and fractional ownership. Experts say real estate is now accessible to moderate-income earners, with achievable down payments and simplified entry barriers.

Key Highlights:

Saving for a Down Payment

Target property price range: AED 600,000–900,000
Recommended down payment: 15–20% (approx. AED 90,000–180,000)
Monthly savings goal: AED 2,000–4,500
Timeframe: 3–5 years with salary growth and disciplined budgeting

Not Just for High-Income Earners

Real estate is accessible to moderate-income professionals
Strategic entry includes:
- Understanding the market
- Selecting the right location
- Timing your purchase wisely

Tokenisation & Fractional Ownership

New investors can now buy property shares from as little as AED 2,000
Tokenisation allows property value to be converted into digital tokens
Tokens can be bought/sold on blockchain platforms, opening up the market to first-time earners

Breaking Traditional Barriers

Banks once required six months salary proof and stable income
With digital platforms and fintech solutions, entry requirements have eased for recent graduates and early-career professionals

Expert Insight

Adriano Vichi (Monopoly Properties AVS): Encourages savings and strategic investing
Ayman Youssef (Coldwell Banker): Emphasizes tokenisation as a game-changer for first-time buyers