In recent years, Dubai has emerged as a preferred investment destination for many Nigerians looking to expand their real estate portfolios beyond Africa. While Lagos remains Nigeria’s economic powerhouse, an increasing number of high-net-worth individuals and middle-class investors are choosing Dubai over Lagos for property investments. But what’s driving this shift?
In this article, we compare Dubai and Lagos in terms of investment climate, property market performance, infrastructure, and investor benefits — and explore why Nigerians are betting big on Dubai real estate.
Lagos, while vibrant and full of opportunity, is often affected by Nigeria's broader economic uncertainties — including inflation, currency volatility, and policy shifts. In contrast, Dubai offers a stable and diversified economy, backed by oil, tourism, logistics, and finance sectors.
The UAE Dirham is also pegged to the US Dollar, offering investors currency stability, unlike the often-fluctuating Nigerian Naira.
One of the biggest advantages of investing in Dubai is its tax-free real estate environment. Dubai does not charge capital gains tax, rental income tax, or property tax — significantly improving ROI.
In Lagos, property owners may be subject to various taxes, including capital gains tax, land use charges, and stamp duties, which can reduce overall returns.
Dubai offers rental yields between 6–9%, depending on the location and property type — some of the highest in the world. Areas like Business Bay, JVC, and Dubai Marina are known for high rental demand and occupancy rates.
In Lagos, while rental yields can also be strong in high-demand areas like Lekki or Victoria Island, challenges such as property maintenance, tenant disputes, and inconsistent utilities often eat into profits.
Dubai boasts world-class infrastructure, reliable utilities, clean urban planning, and luxury amenities — making it attractive not just for investors, but for residents and tenants.
Lagos is growing rapidly but faces challenges like traffic congestion, inconsistent power supply, and urban overcrowding, which can affect both property value and quality of life.
Dubai offers property investors access to long-term residency visas. Nigerians investing AED 2 million or more can qualify for a 10-year Golden Visa, allowing them and their families to live, study, and work in the UAE.
Lagos, being a domestic market, does not offer equivalent immigration or residency benefits.
Buying property in Dubai is transparent and regulated by the Dubai Land Department (DLD). With experienced agencies like Dubayt, Nigerian investors enjoy:
Virtual tours and consultations
Full legal and documentation support
Flexible payment plans (post-handover options available)
Mortgage assistance for non-residents
Golden Visa application support
In contrast, Lagos real estate deals often require extensive due diligence due to land disputes, title verification issues, and less regulatory oversight.
Savvy Nigerian investors are increasingly seeking to diversify their assets in stable, USD-linked markets. Dubai presents the perfect gateway for global real estate exposure — with internationally recognized developers, iconic properties like Palm Jumeirah, and access to a thriving tourism economy.
Investing only in Lagos leaves portfolios vulnerable to local risks such as currency devaluation, inflation, and political instability.
While Lagos continues to grow, Dubai offers a more secure, profitable, and globally appealing real estate environment. With zero property tax, high returns, strong infrastructure, and investor-friendly policies, it's no surprise that more Nigerians are choosing Dubai for their next property purchase.
Partnering with an experienced agency like Dubayt makes the process smooth, legal, and profitable — whether you're looking for capital appreciation, rental income, or residency benefits.
Book a free consultation today and explore top off-plan and ready properties tailored for Nigerian investors.
1. Can Nigerians buy property in Dubai?
Yes. Nigerians can buy freehold properties in designated zones in Dubai, with 100% ownership.
2. Do I need a visa to buy property in Dubai?
No visa is required to purchase property. However, investments above AED 2 million can make you eligible for a long-term residency visa.
3. Are there hidden costs when buying in Dubai?
No hidden fees — but expect 4% DLD registration fee, 2% agency fee, and some service charges.
4. Can I buy property in Dubai remotely from Nigeria?
Yes, with Dubayt, you can complete the entire process remotely via virtual tours, digital contracts, and secure payment channels.
5. What is the minimum amount required to invest?
Off-plan properties in Dubai start from as low as AED 500,000 with payment plans available.
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