Dubai Rental Yield Calculator
Check what a Dubai buy-to-let really earns: gross yield, net yield after service charges, vacancy and management, and your cash-on-cash return if you use a mortgage.
Gross yield vs net yield
Gross yield is the annual rent divided by the price. It is the number you see in adverts, and it ignores costs. Net yield takes off what you actually pay to own the property: service charges, maintenance and insurance, a management fee if you use one, and the weeks the property stands empty between tenants. This calculator also adds the purchase fees to what you invested, so the net yield is the return on all the cash you put in.
What affects rental yields in Dubai
- Service charges vary a lot between buildings. Check the DLD service charge index for the exact building before you buy.
- Price per square foot: communities with lower entry prices, such as JVC, International City and Dubai Sports City, usually give higher gross yields than prime areas such as Downtown Dubai.
- Rent trends: asking rents for new tenants fell in many areas in 2026, while renewal rents still rose. Use a realistic rent, not the highest advert.
- Holiday homes can earn more than a yearly lease but have higher running costs and more empty nights. Compare with real holiday home listings.
To check what similar homes rent for, compare live listings on Viewit rentals. Your purchase costs are broken down in the DLD fee calculator.
Frequently asked questions
What is a good rental yield in Dubai?
Many investors aim for a gross yield of 6% or more on apartments. After service charges, vacancy and other costs, the net yield is often 1.5 to 2.5 percentage points lower.
How do I calculate rental yield?
Gross yield = annual rent ÷ purchase price × 100. Net yield = (annual rent − vacancy − service charges − maintenance − management) ÷ (price + purchase fees) × 100.
Do I pay tax on rental income in Dubai?
Individuals pay no personal income tax on rental income in the UAE. Dubai residents who rent pay a 5% housing fee through DEWA, and the owner pays service charges.
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Results are estimates for guidance only, not financial advice. Fees, bank rates and rules change; confirm the figures with your bank, the Dubai Land Department or a RERA-registered agent before you commit.