The Dubai real estate market continues to draw significant interest from Nigerian high-net-worth individuals and other global investors, driven by compelling financial returns and a stable economic environment. This trend was a central focus at the recent Binghatti Africa Property Show in Abuja and Lagos, where industry leaders detailed the factors fueling this cross-continental investment boom.
High Yields and Economic Stability Drive Investment
Dr. Jane Kimemia, Chief Executive Officer of The Premiere Immigration and Advisory, highlighted the core attractions. She pointed to significantly higher rental yields in Dubai compared to other global capitals. While cities like London might offer yields around 2.7%, Dubai's market consistently delivers between 8% and 9% on property costs. This robust return on investment is a primary magnet for capital.
Kimemia also emphasised Dubai's security and quality of life, noting it was ranked the fifth safest city in the world in 2024. This stability, combined with a strong economic climb, fosters confidence. The influx of wealth is evident, with statistics showing 6,000 new dollar millionaires moved to Dubai in 2024, joining a community of over 85,000 already resident there.
"You have British people moving into Dubai in numbers, you’ve got the Indians, the Chinese, Ukrainians, Russians, and Africans across different nationalities," Kimemia stated, illustrating the city's global appeal.
Tax-Free Environment and Currency Advantage
A critical factor for Nigerian investors is the favourable fiscal regime and currency stability. Dr. Kimemia noted that Dubai offers no property tax, no capital gains tax, and no income tax. Furthermore, the investment base is stable, with the UAE dirham pegged to the US dollar for over 15 years.
This provides a powerful hedge against local currency volatility. For Nigerian investors, it represents a chance to diversify portfolios into a dollar-denominated asset that promises consistent dollar flows and capital preservation. The property acquisition process itself is streamlined, with digitalised procedures and straightforward transfer agreements.
Adel Azzam, Binghatti's Head of Business Development, reinforced this, stating the dirham has maintained a fixed rate of 3.67 to the dollar for 15 years. He also cited competitive property prices, with costs averaging $550 per square foot compared to over $2,000 in London.
Developer Confidence and Special Offers for Nigerians
At the forum, Chairman of Loft & Keys and The Premiere Immigration and Advisory, Chief Austin Albert, showcased exclusive Dubai properties. He detailed the competitive edge of developer Binghatti, which is fully vertically integrated. This control allows them to deliver 30-storey towers in as little as 11 months.
The firm boasts a track record of 79 projects, with 53 completed and over 20,000 residential units delivered on time. Their financial performance is strong, with a 145% surge in nine-month net profit to AED 2.66 billion in 2025.
Binghatti's Head of Sales for Africa, Joseph Abimbola, announced tailored incentives for the Nigerian market. These include flexible 50/50 payment plans and exclusive discounts designed to make property ownership more accessible.
Adel Azzam outlined the investment proposition: properties range from studio apartments priced around $180,000, with projected yearly capital appreciation of 8-12% and rental yields of 9-12%. "Gone are the days where you invest in real estate and wait for a long time before receiving dividends," Azzam said. "With Binghatti, in 14 to 16 months, they finish the project with a minimum of 25% capital appreciation."
Dr. Kimemia concluded with a vision of Dubai's future growth, referencing its upcoming status as home to the world's biggest airport and largest shopping mall. This continuous development, supported by top-tier infrastructure and a strategic geographic location, promises ongoing property appreciation and assured returns for investors from Nigeria and beyond.
