Types of Properties Sold at UAE Auctions: Residential, Commercial & Land
So, you’re curious about UAE property auctions and rightly so. Auctions are quickly becoming one of the best (and sometimes most fun) ways to buy real estate in UAE. But before you start bidding, it’s important to know what kinds of properties are usually available.
If you’re looking for a new home, a good investment, or a piece of land to build your dream project, this guide will show you the three main types of properties you can buy at UAE auctions: residential, commercial, and land.
1. Homes: From apartments to villas
Most of the time, auctions have residential properties for sale, especially in cities like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah.
Apartments
There is everything from small studios to spacious 3- or 4-bedroom apartments. Some are ready to move, while others might be bank repossessions, foreclosures, or resales that haven’t been built yet.
Townhouses and villas
Are you interested in a gated community with a family home or a luxury high-end villa? A lot of the time, auctions have homes in places like Al Raha Gardens, Arabian Ranches, or The Springs. These are great if you want privacy, room, and things to do.
Things to Think About
- Is the property empty or being rented out right now?
- What shape is it in? Does it need a lot of work?
- Are there any unpaid fees for services or maintenance?
- Do you own it outright (freehold) or rent it long-term (leasehold)?
Tip: Both first-time buyers and investors looking for rental income often choose residential properties.
2. Commercial Real Estate: Offices, Warehouses, shops, and More
Are you interested in the business side of real estate? A lot of commercial properties are often up for auction in the UAE, and they can be very profitable.
What You Will Find
- Business Bay, Tecom, or Media City have the most demanded office space.
- Shops in malls, mixed-use developments, or busy street corners
- Industrial spaces or warehouses, especially in places like Al Quoz, DIP, or Muhaisnah
- Even whole buildings, commercial floors or hotel rooms
Why Investors Like Them
- In general, they have higher rental yields than residential properties
- Possibility of long-term rental agreements
- Possibilities to buy in bulk or at prices lower than the market
Things to Watch Out For
- Is the property rented? What are the terms for the tenant?
- Does it need repairs or new furniture?
- Are there any limits or special permission required?
- Do you have to pay VAT on the deal?
3. Land & Plots: Build Your Vision
If you’ve ever dreamed of building from scratch — whether it’s a home, retail space, or an entire project — land auctions can be your entry point.
What’s Usually Listed Residential plots for villas or small buildings
- Commercial land for retail, hospitality, or mixed-use
- Industrial plots for manufacturing or storage
- Larger bulk parcels for developers or investors
Why It’s Appealing Freedom to build what you want, how you want
- High potential for capital appreciation over time
- Sometimes available in developing areas, meaning lower prices
But Keep in Mind
- Do you have all the permits you need to build?
- Is the infrastructure (roads, electricity, water) in place?
- Are there any masterplan rules or height limits?
Off-Plan vs. Ready Properties: What’s the Difference?
Some auction listings will feature off-plan (under construction) properties, while others are already complete.
Off-Plan
- Lower entry prices
- Potential to gain value before completion
- Project delays or developer issues
Ready/Completed Move-in or rent out immediately
- Easier to inspect and evaluate
- Typically safer, but may cost more upfront
Bulk Deals and Portfolio Auctions
Yes, sometimes auctions offer more than just single units. You might come across full buildings, entire floors, or a package of multiple retail shops.
These Are Ideal For: Developers building a long-term portfolio
- Real estate funds or private investors
- Brokers looking to resell or lease properties in batches
Which Property Type Is Right for You?
- It all comes down to your goal.
- Want a family home or passive rental income? Go for residential.
- Looking for higher returns and steady commercial tenants? Commercial could be your path.
Dreaming of a custom-built project? Land gives you creative control.
And don’t forget platforms like Boli.ae, where you can filter properties by type, location, and price all on a 100% digital platform that makes the process fast and super transparent.
Real Examples: What Gets Auctioned?
Here’s a glimpse of what’s been sold recently:
Quick Comparison: Pros and Cons
Type | Pros | Cons |
Residential | Easier to buy and rent out | May have service charges |
Commercial | Higher yields, business tenants | Zoning, VAT, fit-out costs |
Land | Customizable, long-term value | More complex permissions |
How Technology Makes It Easier
Platforms like Boli.ae have made the auction process simpler than ever. You can:
- Browse listings by type and location
- View verified documents and title info
- Get real-time bidding updates
- Place bids securely from anywhere in the world
Auctions used to be intimidating. Now they’re just a few clicks away.
Auctions in the UAE offer something for everyone. From ready-to-move apartments to sprawling land plots, the variety is as exciting as the deals themselves. The key is knowing what you want and using trusted platforms like Boli.ae to guide you.
Because when you match the right property type with your vision, you’re not just buying real estate — you’re unlocking opportunity.