Offshore Property: Where South Africans are investing now

Top 3 Key Takeaways

• South Africans favour Mauritius, Dubai & Namibia for yields, tax, and residency.
• Dollar-based investments hedge against the rand and offer capital growth.
• Many developments offer structured payment plans and investor incentives.

Why Offshore Property is attracting SA Investors

More South Africans are turning to offshore property investment to hedge against local risks, grow wealth in hard currency, and gain global mobility. According to the Seeff Property Group, the key drawcards are attractive rental yields, favourable tax regimes, and the ability to qualify for residency through property ownership.

Dubai, Mauritius, and Namibia have emerged as top choices, each offering a unique combination of lifestyle appeal, legal frameworks for foreign buyers, and accessible entry points.

1.Dubai: Tax-Free Yields & Golden Visa Appeal

Dubai remains a top destination for South African investors, thanks to:

• No personal income, capital gains, or property taxes
• Average rental yields of 5 - 8%, particularly in the AED 1 - 3 million range
• Strong capital growth (15.6% in the past year) and 22.5% increase in transactions

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“The expat population is booming, which continues to fuel demand for rental units,” says Nombasa Mawela, licensee for Seeff Dubai. “Many South Africans invest in new developments with flexible payment plans and professional rental management included.”

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A minimum AED 2 million investment (around R9.8m) qualifies investors for the 10-year Golden Visa, offering long-term residency. Bank accounts and financing options are also accessible to foreigners.

2. Mauritius: Lifestyle, Residency, and Reliable Returns

Just four hours from Johannesburg, Mauritius offers a compelling package:

• Stable, growing property market with price growth of 22- 27% over the past year
• Rental yields of 3 - 7% in high-demand tourist areas
• Flat 15% income tax, no inheritance tax, and permanent residence for investments over USD 375,000

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“Mauritius has become a popular relocation and investment destination due to its lifestyle, quality developments, and favourable tax regime,” says Severine Dalais-Pietersen, licensee for Seeff Mauritius.

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Properties start at around R4 million, and payment plans are common. South Africans can also secure local financing with certain conditions.

3. Namibia: Affordable Entry & Retirement Potential

Namibia offers a more familiar and accessible offshore option:

• Property prices from N$800,000 to N$2.5 million, with luxury options available
• No Capital Gains Tax on private sales
• Proceeds are freely repatriated, making it easier to exit

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“Many South Africans are now looking to retire or holiday in Swakopmund and other coastal towns,” says Maria Esterhuysen, licensee for Seeff Namibia.

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The Namibian government also supports retirement and residence options for foreigners with net wealth from N$4 million, of which at least N$2 million must be invested in property.

Why the Offshore Shift Is Growing

Beyond the appeal of lifestyle and yield, offshore property provides a vital currency hedge, allowing investors to earn in stronger currencies like the USD or AED. With South Africa’s annual offshore allowance of R11 million (R1m discretionary and R10m with tax clearance), more South Africans are taking action.

Investors are also looking for stability, global access, and legacy planning, with real estate as the vehicle.

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“For many South Africans, offshore property offers not just returns but peace of mind, diversification, and opportunity,” says Mawela.

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The Outlook: A Growing Trend for 2025 and Beyond

With rising demand for flexible residency options, dollar-based income, and tax efficiency, offshore property is likely to remain a strong trend for South African investors.

Whether it’s the urban buzz of Dubai, the island lifestyle of Mauritius, or the coastal calm of Namibia, investors are increasingly going global and reaping the benefits.

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