Buying a penthouse in Dubai is one of the major as well as exciting investments in one’s life. Dubai offers the best options of luxury penthouses with world-class architecture, amazing views, and luxurious amenities. This makes them a popular choice for those who are looking to seek comfort, privacy, and status. 

Buying a Dubai penthouse requires careful planning and consideration. Being a buyer, you must understand the market, legal process, and all the costs involved. In this guide, we will help you understand everything about buying a penthouse in Dubai. 

What is a penthouse?

A penthouse is a luxury and large apartment located on the top floor of a building. It offers better views, greater privacy, and more space as compared to other apartments in the building. 

Dubai penthouses often include luxury amenities such as spacious balconies, floor-to-ceiling windows, and modern interiors. 

You may even find private pools or lifts that add to the luxury of that penthouse. The luxury penthouses tend to be popular within the buyers because of their stylish and modern designs. 

Why Invest in a Luxury Penthouse in Dubai?

Dubai is known for its modern infrastructure, strong economy, and tax-free property ownership for foreigners. This makes it a safe and profitable place to invest in luxury penthouses in Dubai.

Moreover, luxury penthouses are located in prime areas offering high-quality finishes, stunning views, and amazing features. This helps to attract high-end buyers and renters, which can lead to long-term value growth. 

Here are some of the reasons you should invest in a luxury penthouse in Dubai:

• Prime Location
• High-Quality features
• Strong Rental Yield
• Long-term Value
• Investor-friendly Policies

Best Locations to Buy the Penthouse in Dubai

There are a variety of penthouses available in Dubai based on different preferences and budgets of buyers. You can have a look at the following locations in Dubai if you are willing to buy a penthouse in Dubai. 

Location	Key Highlights	Ideal For
Downtown Dubai	Burj Khalifa views, luxury towers, near Dubai malls and offices	Professionals, Executives, Investors
Palm Jumeirah	Beachfront living, Private pools, large terraces and Iconic location	Families, high net-worth individuals
Dubai Marina	Modern buildings, waterfront lifestyle, access to shops and nightlife	Young professionals, international buyers
Business Bay	Close to downtown, canal views, and modern infrastructure	Business owners, investors
Jumeirah Beach Residence	Sea views, beachfront access, vibrant dining	Families, beach lovers

Types of Penthouses

Here are some of the penthouses available:

1. Simplex Penthouses

Built on a single level, it usually includes an open-plan layout, large living, spacious bedrooms, dining areas, and big balconies. They are a good choice for those buyers who prefer everything on one floor. 

2. Duplex Penthouses

Unlike simplex penthouses, duplex penthouses are spread over two floors. This is the reason they offer more space and clear separation between living areas and private areas. Moreover, duplex penthouses offer high ceilings, internal staircases, and sometimes private lifts too. 

3. Sky Penthouses

Sky penthouses are situated on the top most floors, offering breathtaking views of the city, sea or both. They are said to come with extra luxury features like private pools, rooftop gardens, and top-quality finishes. 

4. Custom Penthouses

Custom penthouses, also referred to as full-floor penthouses, cover an entire floor of the building. They are custom-designed according to the buyers’ requirements. Moreover, they tend to offer maximum privacy, space and freedom in design. Not only this but they are very rare and are only found in the premium buildings. 

Step-by-Step Buying Process of Buying the Penthouse in Dubai

Buying a penthouse in Dubai is a smooth and well-regulated process. Here is a simple and effective process of buying a penthouse in Dubai. 

1. Decide on your budget and get pre-approval. 

First you need to figure out your budget, including the extra costs and fee etc. If you are thinking of getting a mortgage, getting pre-approved from a bank will help you get a better idea of how much you can easily borrow. 

2. Choose the location.

Then you need to find the best location to buy the penthouse in Dubai. This is the most important step after deciding on a budget. You need to see whether you prefer the beachfront luxury of Palm Jumeirah or an amazing city life in Downtown Dubai. Picking the right area makes the clear difference. 

3. Find a trusted real estate agent. 

After deciding on the budget and location, next you have to decide on a real estate agent. For that, you have to be sure that the agent is authentic and licensed like Nouba Real Estate. They will help you find the best apartments, villas, or penthouses. 

4. Make an offer and sign the agreement. 

After you finalize the perfect penthouse for you, your real estate agent will help you make a formal offer. Once everything is agreed upon, you will sign the Sale and Purchase agreement, which is a document that helps you protect both you and the seller. 

5. Pay your deposit and get the NOC. 

Then you are supposed to pay the 10% deposit to get the hold of your property. Later, you have to get an NOC as well from the developer, making sure that property is clear of any dues. 

6. Final Payment and ownership transfer.

With the NOC ready, you will visit the Dubai Land Department (DLD) to finalize the ownership transfer. After settling the remaining amount and fee, you will receive your Title deed making the penthouse officially yours. 

Working with the Right Real Estate Agency

When choosing a real estate agency in Dubai, it is important to go with the one which has strong knowledge and a proper license. 

Well-established firms like Nouba Real Estate, are known for their dedication and professionalism towards every deal they make. They play a key role in making the buyer process smooth and transparent. 

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Conclusion

Buying a penthouse is an important investment that offers both luxury and lasting value. With careful planning and consideration, you can easily turn your dream into reality. The key is to stay informed and take each step thoughtfully. 

What to do Next?

• If you have any questions or you want to get in touch with us, contact us immediately. 
• Book a consultation with Nouba Real Estate and let us help you with the real estate buying and selling.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Ejari renewal process is very important because it ensures that the Dubai Land Department has your rental agreement on record, giving you access to the DEWA and some other services. 

The Ejari Renewal process is not that complicated in 2025 because it can be done through the Dubai REST app. 

In this blog, we will walk you through the details of Ejari Renewal Process 2025, along with the required paperwork, expenses, and the entire cost of the process. 

What is Ejari?

The Dubai Land Department developed the Ejari system which allows all rental agreements established in Dubai to be registered on a single platform.

This approach guarantees that tenancy agreements are formally documented and accepted by the state.

When your rental agreement is registered with Ejari, it becomes lawful and contributes to the safety of both landlords and tenants.

In addition, it helps in conflict resolution and is necessary for the installation of utilities like internet, water, and power. 

How to Renew Ejari Online in 2025: Step-by-Step Ejari Renewal Process

In 2025, renewing Ejari will be very easy. The method is fairly simple, but you don’t have to go through any difficult stages to renew your Ejari. You can visit an authorised service centre or finish the Ejari renewal online. 

Here’s a breakdown of both methods:

1. Online Ejari Renewal via Dubai REST or DLD Website

The online procedure is quick and easy if you want to renew Ejari using digital platforms. Here are a few easy methods for online Ejari renewal:

Step 1: You must first sign in to the official DLD website or the Dubai REST app.

Step 2: Choose the “Register Ejari Contract” option and then the renewal option after logging in.

Step 3: After that, you must upload all of the Ejari renewal paperwork (described in the following section) and complete the necessary information.

Step 4: Next, use a debit/credit card or Noqodi wallet to pay the Ejari renewal fees.

Step 5: You will receive an email with your renewed Ejari certificate after it has been accepted.

Please be aware that the Ejari renewal process can only be completed online by landlords, their certified agents, or property management companies.

2. Offline Ejari Renewal via Real Estate Services Trustee Centers

To renew your Ejari, take the following actions if you would rather receive help in person:

Step 1: You must first go to an authorised Ejari typing centre or Real Estate Services Trustee.

Step 2: Next, submit all the paperwork needed for the Ejari renewal.

Step 3: Your data will be entered into the Ejari system by the staff.

Step 4: Pay the necessary renewal and service fees.

Step 5: Your updated Ejari certificate will be instantly given, typically in ten to fifteen minutes. 

Ejari Renewal Documents Required in 2025

Before starting the Ejari renewal process, ensure you have the necessary documents ready. Below are the standard documents required for Ejari renewal:

For Tenants:

• Copy of Emirates ID
• Latest DEWA bill or DEWA premises number
• Copy of passport and residence visa
• Original renewed tenancy contract
• Copy of previous Ejari certificate (if applicable)

For Landlords:

• Copy of trade license (for commercial properties)
• Copy of Title Deed
• Copy of passport (Emirates ID if applicable)

If Applying Through an Agent:

• Agent’s Emirates ID and passport copy
• Power of Attorney (PoA) or legal authorization letter

Please be aware that additional paperwork, including a current trade licence and authorisation letter, might be needed if you are renewing on behalf of a business.

Ejari Renewal Fees in 2025: What You Need to Pay

Understanding the Ejari renewal fees is important for planning your budget during the lease renewal process. The fee depends on the method you choose online or in-person.

1. Ejari Renewal Online via Dubai REST or DLD Website:

• Base fee: AED 100
• Knowledge fee: AED 10
• Innovation fee: AED 10
• Total: AED 120 (excluding VAT)

2. Ejari Renewal at Real Estate Trustee Centers:

• Base fee: AED 120
• Service partner fee: AED 95
• VAT: Additional
• Total: Approximately AED 219.75 (including VAT)

Always confirm the final amount during the transaction, as fees may vary slightly depending on the center or updates from DLD.

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Conclusion

Renewing your Ejari in 2025 is a simple but important step for anyone renting property in Dubai. 

By following the correct process, preparing the required documents, and paying the renewal fee, you can complete it without any trouble. 

Keeping your Ejari updated helps you avoid fines and ensures your tenancy remains legal and smooth.

Dubai’s real estate market continues to grow, attracting both residents and investors. In this fast-moving environment, having the right support matters. 

Nouba Real Estate is a professional agency that helps clients buy, sell, and invest in properties across Dubai. With local market knowledge and a focus on customer service, Nouba makes the property journey easier and more reliable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Difference Between Freezone and Mainland in UAE: A Guide for Dubai Real Estate Investors

Dubai in particular has emerged as one of the most popular locations for business establishment and Real Estate investment in the United Arab Emirates.

Due to its stable economy, investor-friendly laws, and corporate tax reforms, the UAE continues to draw businesses wishing to enter domestic and international markets.

Knowing the differences between mainland and free zone business setups is one of the first and most crucial stages when entering the UAE market.

This choice impacts your access to the real estate market in addition to how your business functions in the Freezone Dubai or the Mainland United Arab Emirates.

This guide will help you decide whether to register in a Freezone UAE or establish a Mainland firm by outlining the main distinctions between the two. It will also examine how each setup impacts your real estate investing plan in Dubai.

Understanding Business Setups in the UAE

You must choose between the mainland and freezone legal structures when launching a business in the United Arab Emirates. Depending on your target market, investment plans, and business objectives, each has unique features and advantages.

What is a Mainland Company?

A firm that is registered with the particular emirate’s Department of Economic Development (DED) is known as a mainland company. These businesses are able to operate in both domestic and foreign markets, anywhere in the United Arab Emirates.

After recent reforms, foreign investors can now establish a mainland company with 100% foreign ownership in several areas, whereas before they needed a UAE native as a sponsor to create a mainland business. 

What is a Freezone Company?

A freezone company is registered within UAE’s freezone areas including Freezone Dubai Internet city,  JAFZA, or DMCC. 

These zones are specifically meant to attract foreign investors by giving them advantages like tax exemptions, full profit returns, and exemption from import and export duties. 

However, freezone companies do face limitations when it comes to doing business within the local UAE market or purchasing property outside the designated freehold areas. 

Key Differences between Freezone Dubai & Mainland Dubai

Following are the main differences between freezone dubai and mainland dubai.

Feature	Freeland Dubai	Mainland Dubai
Jurisdiction	Anywhere in UAE and internationally	Limited to freezone and international markets
Ownership	100% foreign ownership (in many sectors)	100% foreign ownership
Real Estate access	Broad, includes all areas in Dubai	Limited to designated freehold zones
Business within UAE location	Fully allowed	Not allowed directly (needs a local agent)
Office Location	Can be anywhere in UAE	Must be within freezone
Government Projects	Eligible	Not Eligible
Tax Benefits	Subject to UAE corporate tax	Often includes tax exemptions
Setup Process	Slightly more regulatory steps	Simplified and freezone-managed

Where Can Freezone and Mainland Companies Buy Property in Dubai?

When it comes to real estate, the type of company you set up in the UAE, Freezone or Mainland, can greatly affect where and what you can buy in Dubai. 

Whether you’re planning to purchase an office, a retail shop, or residential property for investment, it’s important to understand the difference between Freezone and Mainland business setups, especially for foreign investors entering the UAE market.

1. Freezone Company Restrictions

Freezone companies in Dubai have limited access to the real estate market. They are only allowed to buy property in designated freehold zones. These areas are approved by the government for ownership by non-UAE nationals and foreign companies.

While this setup offers attractive business benefits like tax exemptions and easy setup processes, it does place some limits on real estate investment. You won’t be able to buy property outside these approved zones unless you set up a different type of entity.

Common Freehold Areas for Freezone Companies

• Dubai Marina
• Business Bay
• Downtown Dubai
• Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT)
• Palm Jumeirah
• Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC)

These areas are popular with foreign investors and offer a wide range of residential and commercial property options. 

However, Freezone UAE companies cannot buy property in non-freehold or government-controlled zones. 

This highlights a key difference between Mainland and Freezone structures in terms of property ownership.

2. Mainland Company Flexibility

Mainland companies offer far more flexibility when it comes to buying or leasing property in Dubai. 

Once your business is registered under Mainland Dubai, you are free to purchase or lease real estate anywhere across the emirate, including non-freehold zones and areas not available to Freezone Dubai companies.

This makes Mainland UAE companies ideal for businesses that:

• Need office space in strategic commercial districts
• Want to open retail outlets or showrooms in high-traffic areas
• Plan to invest in warehouses, industrial units, or mixed-use buildings
• Seek long-term property investments across a wider range of locations

With broader property access and the ability to serve local markets, the flexibility offered by mainland and freezone companies plays a crucial role in shaping real estate decisions. 

However, mainland companies generally provide more location options, making them a strong choice for real estate-focused investors.

Legal & Regulatory Considerations

When buying or leasing property in Dubai—whether through a Mainland or Freezone company—there are several legal and regulatory steps that must be followed. 

These ensure the transaction is transparent, compliant, and properly documented.

1. Dubai Land Department (DLD) Requirements

All property transactions in Dubai are regulated by the Dubai Land Department (DLD). 

Whether you’re buying through a Mainland UAE company or a Freezone UAE company, you must register the property with the DLD. This registration confirms your ownership and protects your legal rights.

The DLD charges a standard 4% transfer fee, which is usually paid by the buyer at the time of property registration.

2. Ejari Registration

If you plan to lease a property instead of buying, you’ll need to register your rental contract through the Ejari system. 

This is a mandatory process for all rental agreements in Dubai. Ejari registration makes your lease legally binding and is often required to apply for trade licenses, visas, or utilities.

3. RERA Compliance

The Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) is the authority responsible for regulating real estate activities in Dubai. RERA ensures that all developers, brokers, and landlords follow fair practices. 

If your company is involved in any real estate transaction—buying, selling, or leasing—it must comply with RERA rules and guidelines.

Compliance includes:

• Using licensed real estate agents
• Transparent pricing
• Following property usage laws

4. Corporate Real Estate Taxes and Fees

Although Dubai has no property tax, companies are subject to corporate tax depending on their business activity. Other fees include:

• DLD registration fees
• Service charges for property maintenance (for apartments or office buildings)
• VAT on certain property transactions (especially commercial units)

Note: Mainland and Freezone companies may be taxed differently based on UAE tax laws and the type of activity they conduct.

5. Bank Account and Mortgage Implications

Opening a corporate bank account is often required to handle property payments and manage rental income. However, mortgage options can differ based on whether the company is registered in Mainland Dubai or a Freezone Dubai.

Mainland companies generally have easier access to local banking and mortgage services. Freezone companies may face more restrictions or require extra documentation, depending on the bank and Freezone authority involved.

Understanding these legal steps is crucial for a smooth real estate transaction. Whether you operate under a Mainland or Freezone license, staying compliant with Dubai’s regulations ensures your investment is protected and legally sound.

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Conclusion

Understanding the difference between Mainland UAE and Freezone UAE is essential for making a decision. 

Basically, mainland UAE companies are well-suited to those who are looking for broad property access and presence in local markets. On the other hand, freezone Dubai is better for those who are seeking sector-specific zones and simplified operations.  

Both Mainland Dubai and Freezone Dubai offer unique benefits, understanding these helps you align your real estate plans with legal, financial, and strategic needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you live in the great city Dubai, take a nice glance at the city’s skyline, your area, and your favourite district. Take a photo if you can the reason in a few years, the scenery might be totally different as the city moves ahead full steam with a bunch of mega projects in the pipeline.

For one, there will be an awesome airport rising from the where you can go from entrance to the boarding gate nonstop without any queue. Then, there are flying taxis ready to take off in the near future, plus a floating community all set to save the oceans.

The world has been in awe of how far the Emirate has come and how it turned the desert land and fishing villages into a mega city. And clearly – with cranes along with machines still working nonstop in different areas of the city – the Emirate’s evolution is far from slowing down.

Here’s a list of projects that look to change the look of Dubai:

1. Al Maktoum airport

What used to be known as a ‘middle-of-nowhere airport’ of the city will soon be the world’s biggest- and perhaps the most technologically advanced travel hub, too. Set to be five fold the size of the current, Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) will be a ‘city within a city’ will have trains and forests. The best part? There will be no queues for check-ins at immigration. In just a decade, all Dubai flights will be flying from this mega-complex.

2. Beach makeover

Dyvau gas sine great beaches Humeirah and Al Mamzar are known to super popular with people all over the world. They are being revamped at a massive cost of about 355 million dirhams. There will be a floating bridge for people to walk across along with food joints and other entertainment. 

3. Dubai Reef

This is the world’s largest marine conservation effort that will see “more than 400,000 cubic metres of reefs” thrive in the Emirate’s waters. However it’s way more than an eco-project. Dubai Reef will improve ecotourism, nurture long term fisheries management, and defend the city’s marine life. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Head of the Dubai Executive Council, recently went diving to launch the awesome project.

4. Palm Jebel Ali

With stunning waterfalls, lush green areas and unique waterfront life, this palm-shaped artificial archipelago will lead to an addition of about 110 km of coastline for the city of Dubai. Once completed, about 35,000 families will be living the life and enjoying luxury beachside living on the Palm.

5. Dubai Creek Tower and a ‘water, color and fire’ plaza

If Burj Khalifa has its dancing Dubai Fountain, the upcoming Dubai Creek Tower will have a plaza of its own – one that combines ‘water, color and fire.’

Set to go up at the Dubai Creek Harbour, Emaar’s newest superstructure is being called the ‘female Burj Khalifa’ – but whether or not it is going to be  the new tallest building is yet to be clear.

Based on the latest news, what we know is that it will be encircled by the plaza that will feature a great show.

6. A bigger Dubai Mall

Just when you think Dubai Mall cannot  get any bigger or better, Emaar recently announced a massive Dh1.5-billion expansion plan. This will make it even bigger and better than ever before. 

7. Vertical airports and flying cars

UAE residents might having flying cars this year- and to support this futuristic mode of transport, vertical airports also called vertiports will be built. Air taxi terminals are expected to go up near DXB.

8. Burj Azizi, the world’s second-tallest tower

Being built on the Sheikh Zayed Road—opposite the World Trade Centre – this giant is expected to be the “world’s second-tallest tower” when it’s done in three short years. Private developer Burj Azizi said it is going to come with a vertical mall, luxury homes, an observation deck, and a world beating hotel, among other top-end amenities.

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Conclusion 

Dubai real estate is changing the face of the city and the wider country at large. 

The new buildings, airports, commercial and residential projects, and other ventures that are changing the way the city lives and works is taking place at a breakneck speed. If you are looking to buy property in Dubai, then you should try to do so at the earliest before you get priced out by rising prices and rentals. 

All you need is to partner with a reliable agency in order to get your hands on the best deals in Dubai. Nouba Real Estate is one such partner that helps buyers from all over the world find the best deals that money can buy in the UAE. 

What are you waiting for? Grab the right opportunities today, and posterity will thank you!