Expert Guides
Your Complete Guide to Buying Property Abroad
Everything Dutch residents need to know about purchasing real estate in Spain and Dubai. From mortgage structures and tax obligations to the step-by-step buying process.
🇪🇸
Spain
Mediterranean living with EU advantages and a thriving Dutch expat community.
Avg. price range
EUR 150K - 3M+
Rental yield
4 - 7% (as of Q2 2026).
Buying costs
10 - 15% (as of Q2 2026).
Costa del SolBarcelonaMadridIbizaValencia
🇦🇪
Dubai
Tax-free ownership, iconic skylines, and some of the highest rental yields globally.
Avg. price range
AED 500K - 20M+
Rental yield
5 - 9% (as of Q2 2026).
Buying costs
7 - 8% (as of Q2 2026).
Palm JumeirahDowntownMarinaBusiness BayJVC
At a Glance
Spain vs Dubai Comparison
A quick overview of the key differences between both markets for international buyers.
| Criteria | 🇪🇸 Spain | 🇦🇪 Dubai |
|---|---|---|
| Max LTV (non-resident) | 70% | 65% |
| Transfer tax | 6 - 10% (ITP, varies by region) (as of Q2 2026). (source: sede.agenciatributaria.gob.es) | 4% (DLD fee) (as of Q2 2026). (source: dubailand.gov.ae) |
| Total buying costs | 10 - 15% (as of Q2 2026). | 7 - 8% (as of Q2 2026). |
| Rental yield (avg.) | 4 - 7% (as of Q2 2026). | 5 - 9% (as of Q2 2026). |
| Annual property tax | 0.4 - 1.1% (IBI) (as of Q2 2026). (source: sede.agenciatributaria.gob.es) | None |
| Income tax on rental | 19% (EU) / 24% (non-EU) (as of Q2 2026). | 0% |
| Golden Visa threshold | Abolished April 2025 | AED 2,000,000 |
| Climate | Mediterranean, 300+ sun days | Desert, 350+ sun days |
Continue your research
Mortgage calculator Spain & Dubai
See what a Dutch-resident mortgage costs per market, with realistic LTV and rate assumptions.
Calculate your mortgageSpain vs Dubai property comparison
Costs, taxes, financing, returns, and risks side by side for Dutch buyers.
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Use our mortgage pre-check calculator to compare what you can afford in each market, or speak with one of our advisors.