Choosing a property for relocation: Thailand vs UAE

Choosing a property for relocation: Thailand vs UAE

Buying property abroad is an important decision that requires careful analysis of multiple factors. Thailand and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are among the most popular home-purchasing destinations. Both countries offer unique opportunities for those seeking to enhance their quality of life and invest profitably in real estate.

Thailand is renowned for its picturesque nature, fine sandy beaches, azure water, warm climate and relatively affordable property prices. This country appeals to those seeking a more relaxed laid-back lifestyle along with low day-to-day living costs. Here you can find both cosy flats by the sea and spacious villas set in lush, green areas.

The Emirates, on the other hand, offers luxurious living in ultra-modern cities. Property in the UAE is in high demand among foreign investors, thanks to its rapidly developing economy, strong security and well-developed infrastructure. Buying a home here is a sound choice not only for permanent residence or seasonal holidays but also as a profitable investment.

In this article, we’ll compare the specifics of property in Thailand and the UAE, examining the market features and advantages of each country to help you choose the best option for your move.

Advantages of moving to the UAE

Most often, foreigners choose the capital Abu Dhabi or Dubai, as their destination. Over the past few decades, Dubai has transformed into a thriving city with a population that has now reached 3.68 million people. In the first three months of 2024 alone, it grew by over 25,000 residents. With only 15% of the population being Emirati nationals, the rest are expats, digital nomads and workers from around the globe, giving the city a distinctly multicultural character. The reasons to buy a house or flat in Dubai for relocation include:

  • Visa opportunities: Foreign buyers who invest a minimum of AED 750,000 (USD 204,000) in property can obtain a residence permit in the UAE for two years. With an investment of AED 2 million (USD 544,500), a five-year golden visa is issued. Both ready-made properties and apartments in new under-construction buildings are available for sale. However, it’s important to note that maintaining the investment is necessary to extend the visa;
  • Convenient location: Due to its strategic position on the borders of Europe, Asia and Africa, the UAE is an ideal hub for business and travel. The emirate's international airport operates flights to most major destinations, providing convenient routes worldwide;
  • Year-round warm climate and beach season: The UAE doesn’t experience winter in the traditional European sense. Instead, the winter months bring the most comfortable weather, while summer can be quite hot;

English proficiency: Nearly all residents in the UAE speak English, which simplifies communication and eliminates the need to learn Arabic;

  • High quality of life: This encompasses all aspects of living, including access to  prestigious education and qualified medical care;
  • Extensive business opportunities: This includes the presence of special free economic zones;
  • High level of security;
  • No property taxes: Property owners are exempt from tax, including when renting out their property.

These advantages make the UAE an attractive destination for both relocation and investment.

Real estate in UAE

Benefits of moving to Thailand

Moving to Thailand provides numerous opportunities for those seeking a comfortable and affordable lifestyle. One of the main advantages is the relatively low cost of living. Rent, food, transportation and services are significantly cheaper here than in most developed countries. This makes Thailand an attractive option for those who want to enjoy comfort without overspending. , The average monthly cost of living for one person in Thailand is USD 790, which is 59% lower than in the UAE, where this figure reaches USD 1,906.

The climate is another advantage. The warm weather year-round, combined with stunning natural landscapes, such as beaches, mountains and tropical greenery, creates a comfortable environment for living, relaxation and a variety of activities. However, it’s important to note that the rainy season occurs from May to October due to the monsoons. During this period, most parts of the country experience significant rainfall, particularly in June, July and September. The intensity and duration of the rain can vary by location. On the west coast, including popular resorts such as Phuket and Krabi, rainfall can be more frequent, while on the east coast, in areas like the islands of Koh Samui, Phangan and Koh Tao, the rainy season may start later and be less intense.

The developed infrastructure in major cities such as Bangkok and Chiang Mai ensures easy access to all necessary services and social facilities. The pace of life in Thailand is more relaxed than in the UAE, which can be viewed as both an advantage and a disadvantage. The local population tends to favour a slower, more unhurried lifestyle and may not always respond quickly to urgent matters. This can lead to difficulties, for instance, when arranging repairs for household appliances.

Property market analysis in figures

The Emirates property market continues to demonstrate steady growth, supported by consistent demand, economic development and strong interest from foreign investors. In Q1 2024, house prices in Dubai increased by approximately 21% year-on-year, while in Abu Dhabi, the average increase was around 7%. A minimum investment in Dubai property requires approximately AED 367,000 (USD 100,000). Thailand's property market is also showing positive trends, albeit at a more modest pace. By the end of H1 2024, the price index for detached houses had risen by 2.6% year-on-year, as per the Bank of Thailand. The townhouse segment experienced an increase of 3.12%.

The highest price increases were recorded in Thailand's capital region, where the housing segment saw a rise of 3.85%, followed by townhouses at 3.58% and condominiums at 3.03%. However, prices in resort regions generally remain affordable. For example, the minimum cost of a studio in Phuket is USD 80,000.

Thus, the UAE property market is experiencing higher growth rates and requires a greater initial investment compared to Thailand, where price increases are more moderate and housing costs in resort areas remain affordable.

Summary

When deciding between buying property in the UAE or Thailand for permanent relocation, several key aspects should be considered. Both countries offer comfortable living conditions and allow you to escape cold winters. However, the United Arab Emirates leads in terms of infrastructure.

The cost of living in Thailand is lower, as is the initial investment threshold, but the rate of property price growth in the UAE is higher. This can be an important factor when considering the resale of a property, particularly if you need a larger home as your family expands.

A residence permit in Thailand for the purchase of real estate is not provided, so you’ll need to choose other programmes to legalise your stay in the country.

Thus, the choice depends on your priorities. If a high standard of living, stability and investment potential are important to you, the UAE may be the preferable option. Conversely, for those who prioritise a relaxed pace of life and cost savings, purchasing property in Thailand could be the best choice.

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