International investors
Buying Dubai Property from Canada
Foreign-property disclosure and income reporting. A practical guide for buyers based in Canada.
Allegiance Real Estate · Updated 27 September 2026
THE SHORT ANSWER
The CRA distinguishes reporting foreign income from filing Form T1135 for specified foreign property. The T1135 threshold is based on aggregate cost, not simply the current market value of one Dubai property.
Official guidance ↗Plan the purchase on both sides.
Foreign-property disclosure and income reporting
Ask your Canadian adviser whether your ownership and use of the unit fall within T1135, including any exclusions. Keep the acquisition cost, exchange-rate records, rental income and expenses.
Check the Dubai property
Confirm that the specific property is in an area where you may acquire the intended ownership right. Check the seller or developer, registration status, contract, total costs and how completion will be handled. Dubai Land Department is the source for Dubai registration requirements.
Arrange your Dubai support
Arrange a remote consultation with Allegiance’s Dubai team. Identify who will inspect the property, coordinate documents and manage the unit after purchase. This guide does not imply that Allegiance has an office in Canada.
BEFORE YOUR NEXT STEP
Your checklist.
- Ask your Canadian adviser whether your ownership and use of the unit fall within T1135, including any exclusions.
- Confirm the full acquisition cost in AED and CAD.
- Verify funding and beneficiary details before transferring money.
- Agree local handover and management responsibilities.
Questions worth asking.
If I am below the T1135 threshold, can I ignore the rental income?+
No. CRA guidance says Canadian resident taxpayers must report income from foreign property regardless of its cost. T1135 is a separate reporting obligation.
Can the whole Dubai purchase be handled remotely?+
Do not assume every step is remote. Confirm the signing, identity and representation requirements with the developer or registration trustee for your specific transaction.
LET’S TALK
Your plans.
A personal conversation.
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