Property Guide for UAE Expats in Singapore
UAE expats relocating to Singapore can buy most condominiums and rent widely, but face 20% Additional Buyer's Stamp Duty (ABSD) on purchases unless exempt. Homejourney provides verified listings and safety-focused guidance for UAE expat Singapore buyers from Dubai.
This cluster article dives into property specifics for Emiratis in Singapore, linking to our pillar Complete Expat Guide to Singapore Property. Discover actionable steps for safe property decisions with Homejourney's transparent platform.
Why UAE Expats Choose Singapore Property
Singapore offers stability, world-class infrastructure, and high rental yields compared to Dubai's market. UAE professionals in finance, tech, and oil sectors find abundant opportunities here, with direct flights from Dubai (7 hours via Emirates).
Key draws include English as the main language, multicultural vibe similar to UAE, and tax advantages—no capital gains tax on property sales after holding. Cost of living is higher (SGD 5,000-10,000/month for a family), but salaries match (average expat package SGD 15,000/month).
Homejourney verifies all listings to prioritize your safety, helping relocate Singapore from Dubai seamlessly. Check our [property search] for UAE-friendly options.
Visa and Relocation Essentials for UAE Expats
Secure an Employment Pass (EP) for professionals earning SGD 5,000+ (threshold lower for UAE nationals at times). Processing takes 3-8 weeks via MOM.gov.sg. Families qualify for Dependant's Pass.
For deeper visa details, see UAE to Singapore Visa & Work Permit Guide. Expats from UAE often land jobs in Marina Bay's financial hub—5-minute walk from MRT.
Property Buying Rules for Foreigners from UAE
Foreigners like UAE expats can purchase most condos, strata-landed houses, Sentosa landed properties, and Executive Condominiums (ECs) over 10 years old. HDB flats are restricted; PRs have more access but need economic contribution approval[1].
Key tax: Buyer's Stamp Duty (BSD) on all (1-6% tiered), plus 20% ABSD for non-SPR foreigners on first property (5% for PRs). No ABSD exemptions for UAE nationals[1]. Example: SGD 2M condo incurs ~SGD 300K total duties.
- Action step 1: Use Homejourney's mortgage rates calculator for financing (banks offer 75% LTV to foreigners).
- Action step 2: Engage licensed agents via our directory for URA-compliant deals.
- Action step 3: Budget 1-2% extra for legal fees, valuation.
Sentosa Cove stands out: Foreigners buy bungalows (e.g., Coral Island, 8BR from SGD 20M) or condos like The Coast (waterfront views, lagoon pool)[1]. Insider tip: Viewings best weekdays 2-4PM to avoid crowds; 10-min walk from Sentosa MRT.
Top Neighborhoods for UAE Expats in Singapore
Prioritize areas with halal eateries, mosques (e.g., Sultan Mosque nearby), and international schools.
| Neighborhood | Why UAE Expats Love It | Avg Condo Price PSF (2025) | Rental (3BR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Orchard Road | Shopping, luxury malls like ION; 5-min to MRT Exit A | SGD 2,800 | SGD 8,000/mth[4] |
| Holland Village | Expat hub, dining, 10-min to UWCSEA school | SGD 2,500 | SGD 7,500/mth |
| East Coast (Siglap) | Beach vibe like Dubai, hawker halal food | SGD 2,200 | SGD 6,500/mth[3] |
| Sentosa Cove | Private yachts, UAE-like luxury | SGD 3,200 | SGD 12,000/mth[1] |
Explore projects directory for latest launches like The Reef at King's Dock (floating pool)[1]. Rental market: 3BR condos SGD 6K-15K/month, 4-6% yields[4].
Rental Market and Settling In
Renting is easier—no ABSD. Use PropertyGuru or Homejourney's search. Leases 1-2 years; agent fee 1 month's rent.
- Bank: Open DBS/POSB account (UAE nationals fast-track with passport; 15-min at Raffles Place branch).
- Healthcare: Raffles Hospital (24/7, accepts UAE insurance).
- Schools: Tanglin Trust (British curriculum, waitlist 1 year).
- Transport: EZ-Link card for MRT (SGD 2/ride); Grab like Careem.
For maintenance, book aircon services. Flights: Daily Dubai-SIN (SGD 800 return). Join UAE-SG Facebook groups for community.
Success Stories: UAE Expats Thriving in Singapore
Ahmed from Dubai bought a Silversea penthouse (sea views, ECR dining walkable) for family relocation—"Singapore's safety beats Dubai traffic," he shares[1]. Fatima rents in Bukit Timah: semi-Ds SGD 10K/month, near mosques.
Many leverage Singapore's hubs for UAE business ties. Read more in Life in Singapore for UAE Expats.
FAQ: Property Guide for UAE Expats in Singapore
Can UAE expats buy landed property in Singapore?
Yes, only on Sentosa or strata-landed in condos; full landed restricted elsewhere[1].
What is ABSD for Emiratis buying in Singapore?
20% on first property, no exemptions for UAE nationals[1].
Best areas for UAE families relocating from Dubai?
Holland Village or East Coast—schools, halal food, beaches[3][4].
How to finance property as a UAE expat?
Check Homejourney bank rates; 60-75% loans available.
Is renting better than buying for new UAE arrivals?
Yes, test 1-2 years; easier tenancy, no ABSD[4].
