Dubai’s real estate market remains one of the most attractive investment destinations globally, attracting buyers from London to Lagos. But if you’re an overseas investor planning to sell property in Dubai, 2025 brings an important update you can’t afford to ignore. A new rule has been implemented, requiring foreign sellers to receive payments directly under their own name, as it appears on the title deed. And not via anyone holding a Power of Attorney (PoA).
Sounds technical? Don’t worry. Let’s break it down and see why it is important and how it affects you.
Why This New Rule Matters to Overseas Sellers
Previously, it was common practice for overseas property owners to authorize a trusted individual (often a family member or a representative) to act on their behalf through a Dubai court-issued Power of Attorney. This person could not only handle paperwork and negotiations but also receive payments via cheque on behalf of the owner.
Well, that door has officially closed. As of this week, Dubai authorities have updated real estate transaction procedures to enhance transparency and ensure that all financial dealings are conducted through the legal property owner. In simpler terms, the cheque must now have your name on it. The name that appears on the title deed. Not your cousin’s. Not your lawyer’s. Just yours.
What Prompted This New Rule in Dubai’s Real Estate?
In a move to tighten security and transparency in property sales, the Dubai Land Department (DLD) and the local banks are working to eliminate loopholes that could result in fraudulent transactions or payment misdirection. According to Mortgage representatives, banks will no longer issue cheques in the name of a Power of Attorney (PoA). Instead, they are instructed to process payments only to the actual seller.
The idea is simple: if you’re selling a property in Dubai, the money goes to you, with no middlemen involved. This initiative not only streamlines the verification process but also reinforces Dubai’s commitment to robust, world-class real estate governance.
What Do You Need to Sell Property as an Overseas Owner in 2025?
Here’s a handy list to keep your transaction smooth and compliant:
- UAE Bank Account: Yes, this is non-negotiable now. You must have a UAE-based bank account in your name to receive payments.
- Verified Title Deed: Ensure your title deed is updated and reflects your full legal name correctly.
- Court-Attested PoA (if applicable): You may still authorize someone to represent you in the sales process, but they cannot receive payments on your behalf.
- Dubai Court Involvement: For any Power of Attorney (PoA) to be valid, it must be issued and attested by Dubai courts. Yes, this can be done remotely, even via Zoom.
- Know Your Buyer: This isn’t new advice, but it’s still golden. Always work with registered agents and qualified buyers.
How Does This Impact Power of Attorney Holders?
If you’re currently a Power of Attorney (PoA) for an overseas investor, you can still manage and represent the property on their behalf. You can arrange viewings, sign contracts, and liaise with agents. However, you can no longer accept payment cheques in your name. The final transfer of funds must be made directly to the seller’s UAE-based account.
Think of yourself as the director of a play. You can manage the stage, cue the actors, and run the show. But when it’s time for the paycheck? That goes straight to the star of the show and the actual property owner.
How Overseas Investors Can Comply Easily
Are you worried this sounds like a logistical nightmare? Relax. Opening a bank account in the UAE has become more straightforward for non-residents in recent years. Many banks now offer streamlined onboarding for property owners, often requiring just a few documents and a video call verification.
Similarly, getting a Power of Attorney verified by Dubai courts remotely (via Zoom) makes the process efficient and hassle-free.
Why Dubai Is Still the Ideal Investment Destination
Yes, the rules are more rigid. But that’s not a bad thing. Regulatory clarity makes Dubai real estate more trustworthy, which continues to draw high-net-worth individuals from across the globe. According to the latest data, sales to overseas investors in Dubai have already surpassed 2024 levels, showing growing confidence in the market.
And when you compare this against rising property values in Jumeirah Bay, Palm Jumeirah, and Dubai Marina, the numbers speak for themselves. Dubai isn’t just a luxurious playground; it’s a real estate powerhouse.
Final Thoughts: Smarter, Safer Real Estate in 2025
These new rules are not intended to make life harder for foreign investors but quite the opposite. They’re about protecting your assets, simplifying payments, and ensuring your investments are handled with integrity and transparency.
If you’re selling property in Dubai from abroad, now is the time to align your affairs with the updated regulations. Get your UAE bank account ready, double-check your title deed, and work with professionals who know the landscape inside out.
Need Help Navigating the New Process?
We’re here for that. At Luxliving, we specialize in helping international property owners manage their investments seamlessly. From setting up bank accounts to organizing court-verified Power of Attorney (PoA) documents and handling every step of the sales process, we make it effortless.
Visit our website and explore our full range of services. Whether you’re looking to sell, buy, or simply stay ahead of regulatory changes, our experienced team ensures you’re always in good hands.
Let us turn your Dubai real estate sale into a smooth, secure, and successful journey exactly how it should be.