Buy vs Rent Calculator
Compare the long-term cost of buying versus renting in Dubai and across the UAE.
Results are estimates only
Actual costs may vary based on property, market conditions, lender, developer and other factors.
1Property & Rent Details
Property Type
Purchase Type
2Buyer Profile
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Your Buy vs Rent Comparison
AEDBuying Cost
over 7 years
AED 1,067,987
Renting Cost
over 7 years
AED 960,000
Renting may save you AED 107,987 over 7 years
Cost Breakdown over 7 Years
| Item | Buying | Renting |
|---|---|---|
| Property Price | AED 2,000,000 | — |
| Down Payment | AED 400,000 | AED 120,000 (Deposit) |
| DLD & Buying Fees | AED 80,000 | — |
| Mortgage Payments (Principal + Interest) | AED 747,039 | — |
| Service Charges | AED 84,000 | — |
| Maintenance Costs | AED 42,000 | — |
| Net Equity Gained | − AED 285,052 | — |
| Total Cost | AED 1,067,987 | AED 960,000 |
Cost Comparison
- Buying Cost (53%)
- Renting Cost (47%)
Breakdown includes all estimated costs and benefits over your selected stay period.
How we compare buying and renting
Upfront Costs
We include down payment, fees and security deposit.
Monthly Costs
Mortgage, rent, service charges and maintenance.
Equity Build-Up
Principal repaid, plus any price change you assume.
Rent Changes
Your assumed annual rent increase, if any.
Maintenance
Own your future costs with maintenance estimates.
Long-Term Flexibility
Compare total cost based on your stay duration.
What decides whether buying or renting wins
- How long you stay. Buying has large one-off costs (the 4% DLD transfer fee, agency and mortgage fees). The longer you stay, the more years they are spread over.
- Your deposit and mortgage rate. In the UAE the Central Bank sets a minimum deposit (20% for an expatriate's first home up to AED 5 million) and caps loan repayments at 50% of income.
- Rent increases. In Dubai, rent increases on renewal are limited by the DLD rental index under Decree No. 43 of 2013, so check the index for your area rather than assuming a rate.
- Price changes. Whether the property gains or loses value is the biggest unknown. The calculator starts at 0%; try a fall as well as a rise.
- Running costs. Owners pay service charges and maintenance; tenants usually don't. Check the building's service charge on the DLD Service Charge Index.
More detail: property buying costs in Dubai, UAE mortgage guide and rent increase rules.
Important Notes
- Mortgage calculations are based on the interest rate and tenure provided.
- DLD fees are calculated at 4% of the property price.
- Rent increases and price changes are your own assumptions.
- Service charges and maintenance costs vary by property.
- This calculator is for informational purposes only.
- Consult a financial advisor or property expert before making decisions.
Need help deciding?Our experts are here to help you make informed decisions.
Talk to an ExpertBuying vs renting in Dubai: FAQ
Is it better to buy or rent in Dubai?
It depends mainly on how long you'll stay, your deposit and mortgage rate, and what happens to rents and prices while you live there. Buying spreads large one-off costs over the years you own, so it tends to suit longer stays. Run the calculator with your own figures, and try a price fall as well as a rise.
What costs does buying add that renting doesn't?
In Dubai, the 4% DLD transfer fee, trustee and title deed fees, agency commission if you use a broker, mortgage registration (0.25% of the loan) and bank fees, plus service charges and maintenance while you own.
How much deposit do I need to buy in the UAE?
Under Central Bank rules, at least 20% for an expatriate's first home up to AED 5 million (15% for UAE nationals), and more above AED 5 million or for a second home.
How much can my rent go up in Dubai?
On renewal, a Dubai landlord can raise the rent only if it's below the DLD rental index for similar homes, and by a set amount depending on the gap (Decree No. 43 of 2013). Check the rental index before you renew.
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