Dubai Introduces Freehold Ownership for Sheikh Zayed Road and Al Jaddaf Properties

Dubai has taken a bold step to further cement its position as a global investment hub by offering freehold property ownership opportunities in prime locations. The Dubai Land Department (DLD) has announced that private property owners in the Sheikh Zayed Road and Al Jaddaf areas are now eligible to convert their ownership status to freehold.

This landmark move enhances the appeal of these prominent areas, making them more attractive to investors while aligning with Dubai’s broader real estate goals for 2025. Let’s dive deeper into the expansion of freehold ownership in Dubai and the benefits this change brings to property owners and prospective buyers.

Sheikh Zayed Road and Al Jaddaf: The New Freehold Zones in Dubai

The DLD's decision permits a total of 457 plots across both Sheikh Zayed Road and Al Jaddaf areas to be converted to freehold status.

Sheikh Zayed Road: 128 plots between the Trade Centre Roundabout and Dubai Water Canal are now available for conversion to freehold. This stretch, a key artery of Dubai’s business and lifestyle landscape, offers immense potential for investors.

Al Jaddaf: Home to 329 eligible plots, this area has rapidly evolved into a hub for residential, cultural, and commercial developments.

Why This Move Matters

This initiative aims to benefit landowners in these areas by boosting the market value of their properties, especially for those transitioning to freehold ownership. Additionally, it is expected to enhance the economic appeal of these locations, opening opportunities for real estate developments designed for freehold investors and attracting a fresh wave of investment to Al Jaddaf and Sheikh Zayed Road.

Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita, Director-General of the Dubai Land Department (DLD), stated that allowing private property owners in the Sheikh Zayed Road and Al Jaddaf areas to convert their properties to freehold ownership will significantly boost Dubai’s real estate sector. This initiative aligns with Dubai’s Real Estate Strategy 2033, further solidifying the emirate’s status as a global economic hub and a premier destination for real estate investment.

He emphasized that the move empowers property owners to capitalize on market price fluctuations, enhancing the appeal of Dubai’s real estate market and attracting long-term investments. Bin Ghalita also reiterated the DLD’s commitment to providing all necessary services to support the seamless implementation of this initiative.

Investor Benefits: Why Freehold Ownership?

For new investors, the freehold eligibility in Al Jaddaf and Sheikh Zayed Road offers specific advantages that make these areas particularly appealing:

• Full Ownership: Freehold owners have direct title of ownership of the property and the land on which it is built. They can modify, lease, or sell their property without any restrictions.
• Affordable Entry Point: New investors can secure properties in prime locations with strong growth potential, providing a gateway to Dubai’s lucrative real estate market.
• Prime Location Benefits: Situated in highly sought-after areas in Dubai with excellent connectivity to major hubs, the Shaikh Zayed Road and Al Jaddaf properties ensure long-term desirability.
• Capital Appreciation Opportunity: These areas are expected to see increased demand due to their upgraded freehold status, presenting an excellent chance for new investors to capitalize on property value growth.
• Strong Rental Demand: With limited supply and high demand in these areas, new investors can benefit from attractive rental yields, creating a steady income stream.
• Residency Visa Access: Investing in freehold properties can provide new investors with long-term UAE residency visas, offering added stability and benefits.

How Property Owners on Sheikh Zayed Road and Al Jaddaf Can Convert to Freehold Ownership

To convert your property ownership in Sheikh Zayed Road and Al Jaddaf to freehold status, follow these steps:

• Download the Dubai REST App: Available on Android and iOS, the app streamlines the application process for freehold conversion.
• Create an Account or Log In: Register on the app using your Emirates ID or other relevant identification.
• Submit a Conversion Request: Navigate to the freehold conversion section, upload property documents, and fill in the necessary details.
• Verification Process: The Dubai Land Department will review your application to ensure the property meets all requirements for freehold status.
• Pay the Applicable Fees: Once approved, complete the payment process as specified in the app.
• Update Title Deed: After successful payment, the title deed will be updated to reflect the new freehold ownership status.

Dubai’s Vision for Real Estate Growth: Strategy 2033

Dubai’s real estate sector is poised for a decade of growth under the comprehensive Real Estate Strategy 2033. It sets out ambitious goals supported by key performance indicators, including a 70% increase in real estate transactions, elevating the total market value of Dubai’s real estate to AED 1 trillion, and growing the value of real estate portfolios to AED 20 billion.
DLD's groundbreaking intitiave allowing the private property owners in Sheikh Zayed Road and Al Jaddaf area to convert their ownership status to freehold is a game-changer for property owners and investors alike The expansion of freehold areas in Dubai reinforces the city’s commitment to innovation and growth in its real estate sector.