Dubai Revises Property Rules: Freehold Ownership Now Available in Key Areas

Dubai Land Department (DLD) has changed ownership status rules allowing private property owners in the Sheikh Zayed Road area, from the Trade Centre Roundabout to the Water Canal and Al Jaddaf area to convert their ownership status to freehold. Previously ownership of these properties was only available to GCC nationals.

The initiative is now open to all nationalities and includes a total of 457 plots eligible for conversion with 128 on Sheikh Zayed Road and 329 plots in Al Jaddaf. The ownership status change will benefit landowners in these areas by enhancing the market value of their properties.

What does this mean if you're an investor?

If you're an investor in the Dubai market, this update signals the potential of exciting opportunities in some of the city's most sought-after locations. The ability to convert ownership status to freehold opens the door for greater investment flexibility, long-term security, and increased property value potential.

This move also reinforces Dubai’s commitment to strengthening its real estate sector, ensuring sustained growth and stability. With such developments, investors can feel confident that Dubai’s property market remains dynamic, competitive, and far from slowing down anytime soon.

Freehold properties: Process for applying for land assessment

To proceed with the conversion, they must submit an application to DLD for land assessment and valuation. Common area fees and service charges will be determined according to Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA) guidelines. A conversion fee of 30 per cent of the property’s valuation (based on gross floor area) will be applicable. Once payment is processed, a map and freehold ownership title deed will be issued for the converted property.

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