Investing in Alberta from Dubai / UAE

I’m Mohit Dhillon, a licensed Calgary REALTOR® with Century 21 Bravo Realty, and I help investors purchase across Alberta with a strategy-first approach that works even when you’re buying from abroad. For UAE-based clients, the priority is reducing uncertainty: we confirm what you’re allowed to buy, map the financing and documentation path early, then build a shortlist based on what actually performs—tenant demand, resale strength, location quality, and risk factors that can quietly destroy returns. I’ll guide you through deal-level decisions (pricing, offer terms, conditions, inspection coordination, and closing timelines) and help you set up the right team when needed (lawyer, mortgage, insurance, and property management) so the investment is organized from offer to possession.

FAQ’s

Can I buy property in Alberta if I live in Dubai or the UAE?
In many cases, yes—but it depends on your legal status in Canada and the type/location of the property. Canada has federal rules that restrict certain residential purchases by “non-Canadians” in census metropolitan areas, so eligibility should be confirmed before you commit.

Does the foreign buyer ban affect Alberta cities like Calgary and Edmonton?
Major Alberta cities fall within census metropolitan areas, and the restriction is tied to those areas and to defined “residential property.” If you’re a non-resident, confirm how the rule applies to your situation and whether any exemption fits.

Is commercial real estate treated differently than residential?
Often, yes. The federal restriction is focused on “residential property” as defined in the legislation. If you’re considering commercial (retail, office, industrial, multi-unit), you still want legal clarity on the exact asset and structure.

Do I need to travel to Alberta to buy?
Not always. Many steps can be handled remotely (virtual tours, inspections, lawyer closing), but it must be planned early so timelines don’t get tight near closing.

How do I transfer money from the UAE for a purchase in Canada?
Plan for documentation and a clear paper trail. Lenders and legal professionals will typically require proof of source of funds and movement of funds, and Canadian AML rules influence how transactions are handled.

How is rental income taxed if I’m a non-resident owner?
Non-resident rental income generally involves withholding and reporting rules. Many non-residents use a property manager/agent to handle withholding, and CRA elections can apply depending on your situation. Set this up before the first tenant moves in.

Does Alberta have a land transfer tax?
Alberta doesn’t have a traditional land transfer tax like some provinces, but you do pay Land Titles registration fees (and mortgage registration fees if financing). Your lawyer will include these in your closing statement.

Are there Alberta-specific restrictions for rural or agricultural land?
Yes—Alberta has foreign ownership rules for “controlled land” (generally rural/agricultural/recreational land). This usually doesn’t impact typical city residential purchases, but it matters if you’re looking at acreage, farmland, or certain rural parcels.