A Complete Guide to Buying Property in Sharjah for Expats

Sharjah, culturally one of the most vibrant and fast-developing emirates in the UAE, has recently opened its doors for expats who wish to invest in real estate. With the recent amendments in property laws, foreign nationals can now purchase and hold long-term rights to properties in prominent areas. 

Be it for residential, commercial, or investment purposes, the Sharjah property market opens the gates for expats to hold a piece of a prospering emirate that is a blend of tradition and modernity. So, wish to buy a property in Sharjah? Read on to learn about the process. 

Introduction to Property Ownership for Expatriates in Sharjah

For many years, property ownership in Sharjah was limited to nationals of the UAE. Citizens of the member states of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) could also buy a property. However, recently, laws have been reformed.

Now, foreign nationals can own and lease a property under specific conditions. This momentous change, spearheaded by the Sharjah Executive Council (SEC), has expanded the options for investors and residents. 

Expats can now be granted legal ownership or long-term usufruct rights, an arrangement similar to the 100-year lease. This gives expats long-term security and flexibility.

Sharjah’s New Property Ownership Laws

Currently:

• Citizens of all nationalities can buy a property located in Sharjah. It must be in the designated leasehold and freehold zone.
• Expatriates can hold usufruct rights for up to 100 years. Such rights must be registered with the Sharjah Real Estate Registration Department (SRERD).
• Ownership transfer is allowed to first-degree relatives or through inheritance.
• Some transactions require prior approval from the SEC to ensure that there is legal standing.

 

This particular change was initiated by His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad bin Sultan Al Qasimi. He is the Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler of Sharjah. The change has positioned the emirate for international investment in real estate. Consequently, it reshaped the city’s skyline and investment attitude. 

Zones in Which Expatriates Can Own Properties

Top regions include:

 

• Sharjah Media City
• Hamriyah Free Zone
• Sharjah Publishing City
• Sharjah Airport International Free Zone (SAIF)
• Sharjah Research Technology & Innovation Park 

 

Such locations combine:

• Infrastructure
• Convenience
• Business potential

Steps for Property Investment

Buying a property in Sharjah is a structured process. Knowing about the procedure can help ensure a smooth transaction.

• Choose the Area: Check to ensure your chosen development permits foreign ownership.
• Register with SRERD: This is a prerequisite before commencing any property transaction.
• Prepare Documents: It typically includes:

1. Valid passport
2. Residence visa
3. Proof of income
4. Emirates ID, if applicable

• Sign the Purchase Agreement: It will outline:

1. Payment terms
2. Transfer procedures
3. Conditions

• Seek SEC Approval: It is a mandatory step for high-value deals or specific property categories. 
• Pay the Applicable Fees: It includes:

1. Property registration charge
2. Applicable service charge

• Transfer Ownership: Once all legalities are done, ownership is recorded. Following this, the title deed is issued.

Necessary Documentation

Property transactions in Sharjah must comply with strict legal requirements. It helps protect both the:

• Buyer
• Seller

Key documents include:

• Sale and Purchase Contract signed by both parties.
• Electronic No Objection Certificate (eNOC) issued by the authorities.
• Title Deed and Completion Certificate issued by the Sharjah Municipality.
• Bank Guarantee Letter in proper format, signed by the SRERD.
• Acknowledgement from Sharjah Electricity, Water, and Gas Authority confirming the submission of utility plans.

A power of attorney is also required if another party is representing an expat.  Following an update in 2022, all legal modifications or transfers of ownership are required to be registered with SRERD for validity in accordance with Article 7 of Law No. 5 of 2010. It is a positive step forward from the earlier measure of only recording basic ownership details.