The Dubai Land Department (DLD) regularly introduces opportunities for investors that enhance the economic appeal of the real estate market. In January 2025, DLD announced a landmark decision allowing private property owners on Sheikh Zayed Road and Al Jaddaf to convert their properties to freehold status.
This will not only benefit existing property owners but also bring in more foreign real estate investors. How does this plan align with the DLD’s strategy and make Dubai a real estate hub? Let’s find out all the details.
- Overview of Freehold Property Ownership on Sheikh Zayed Road and Al Jaddaf
- How to Convert Your SZR and Al Jaddaf Properties to Freehold Status
- Benefits of Converting From Leasehold to Freehold Impact of Freehold Ownership on Property Value
- FAQs
Overview of Freehold Property Ownership on Sheikh Zayed Road and Al Jaddaf
Sheikh Zayed Road is one of the best places to live in Dubai, offering a prime location with easy access to the city’s most iconic landmarks, luxury areas, and world-class amenities. As a result, the location is highly sought-after.
Out of a total of 457 plots eligible for conversion to freehold, 128 are located along Sheikh Zayed Road and 329 in Al Jaddaf.
Leasehold lands grant ownership rights for 99 years, whereas freehold areas provide full ownership rights. There are several differences between freehold and leasehold areas. For instance, as a foreign investor, you can own freehold land.
How to Convert Your SZR and Al Jaddaf Properties to Freehold Status
If you own land on Sheikh Zayed Road and Al Jaddaf, you can easily convert its status. Simply download the Dubai REST application, one of the important real estate apps in Dubai, and follow these steps:
- Check eligibility for leasehold-to-freehold conversion for your property on Sheikh Zayed Road and Al Jaddaf.
- Submit your application.
- Pay a fee equal to 30% of the land’s value.
- Once the application is reviewed and processed, the owner will receive the title deed and property map.
Benefits of Converting From Leasehold to Freehold
This initiative is in line with the broader 2033 Real Estate Strategy. As the DLD continues to plan more real estate projects, Dubai is set to become a global hub for real estate investment. Granting freehold ownership will allow more foreign investors to own properties in their name.
The benefits of converting leasehold to freehold, as implemented by the DLD on Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Jaddaf, and other areas, include:
- Strengthening the real estate industry
- Opening the door for new real estate developments on Sheikh Zayed Road and in Al Jaddaf
- Boosting the economy through increased real estate transactions
- Driving long-term property value growth through freehold ownership”
Impact of Freehold Ownership on Property Value
As part of its strategy, the Dubai Government plans to expand the freehold status to additional neighbourhoods. Initially, Sheikh Zayed Road and Al Jaddaf will be designated as freehold areas, allowing for full land ownership. This move is expected to drive up property values and attract more foreign real estate investors.
Freehold property ownership in these locations will offer the following benefits:
Freehold Ownership on Sheikh Zayed Road
Living on Sheikh Zayed Road offers a premium lifestyle, with close proximity to Dubai’s most prestigious areas. The road is home to some of the city’s finest hotels, restaurants, and cafés, as well as top shopping malls.
128 plots along Sheikh Zayed Road will be granted freehold status, attracting foreign investment and stimulating further development. This move will not only unlock new opportunities but also significantly increase property values in the area.
Freehold Ownership on Al Jaddaf
Al Jaddaf is an emerging area, with numerous developments and real estate projects underway. Renowned developers in Dubai, such as Binghatti, are also investing in the area. As a waterfront location, Al Jaddaf offers a variety of recreational activities for residents.
These factors are expected to drive up property values, providing investors with the opportunity to achieve higher returns on investment through rental income.
FAQs
To verify whether your property is leasehold or freehold, visit the DLD Service Centre or check the status of your property via the Dubai REST app developed by DLD.
To convert your leasehold property to freehold, verify its status and submit the required documents and fees.
The conversion fee for leasehold to freehold is 30% of the land’s value, payable to the Dubai Land Department.
