U.A.E Dirhams : Linked to the US$. Living costs have risen in the U.A.E. since 2004 in the absence of taxation lower than Western Europe.

Economic climate : The U.A.E. has experienced remarkable economic growth in the past two decades oil and gas and tourism revenues have climbed. Investment by foreign companies has been encouraged by a free trade philosophy and continues to grow. GDP on average increases by 7-8% a year. The infrastructure is very modern with excellent amenities and hospitality services.

Taxes : There is no income or property related tax although there are associated registration, transfer and residence visa fees and charges for offshore company set up for property purchase.

Property ownership regulation : A federal property law governing the sale of property to foreign owners has been drafted but remains to be ratified and released. Meanwhile individual Emirates have adopted different approaches toward ownership for example both freehold and leasehold in Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah and pure leasehold in Abu Dhabi.

Price ranges : Property costs approximately $1,000 per square metre as compared with London UK at $5,000 per square metre. Pricing ranges are variable on a project by project basis and lower cost middle income apartment developments are starting to appear. There is a large amount of apartment inventory due to market in 2nd half 2006 and early 2007.

Budgetary guide : Apartments: 1 bed US$ 100,000 +, 2 bed US$ 159,000+, 3/4 bed to luxury up to US$ 835,000. Mid Range Villas from US$ 325,000 to 430,000. Larger Villas from US$ 700,000 to 1.3 million. Luxury villas to US$ 5 million.

Service Fees : Legal, registration and transfer Fees and ongoing maintenance charges.

Mortgages : Mortgages are available on a 10 to 15-year basis from Amlak, Tamweel, HSBC, Lloyds TSB, Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank, RAK Bank, National Bank of Dubai, Allied Irish Bank and others and interest rates are linked to those in the US. Current quotes are 6.5%.