Top Freehold Areas in Dubai: Own Your Dream Property Today

Foreign nationals were not allowed to purchase and own real estate in Dubai until 2002 when the government of Dubai passed the Freehold Decree. It enables expats and foreign investors to purchase and enjoy complete ownership rights of their purchased properties in some designated areas of Dubai. These areas are called freehold zones. Downtown Dubai, Emaar Beachfront, Palm Jumeirah, Jumeirah Lake Towers, Arabian Ranches and JVC are some of the top freehold areas in Dubai.

Dubai is renowned as one of the best cities globally. Its iconic skyline, landmark developments such as Burj Khalifa, and modern and innovative infrastructure have earned it a commendable reputation. In recent years, it has become a global attraction and a business and tourism hub. Professionals, businessmen and the world’s elites are moving to Dubai to experience its extraordinary lifestyle and expand their businesses.

Let’s Understand The Concept Of Freehold Property

In Dubai, you can find two types of properties: Freehold and leasehold properties. The types of properties that you can own exclusively are called freehold properties. On the contrary, leasehold properties remain under your control for a particular period. You cannot enjoy complete ownership rights for an indefinite period over leasehold properties.

There are some dedicated areas in Dubai called freehold zones. Property buyers can buy and own properties for a lifetime in these areas. Further, locals, expats and foreign nationals can own real estate in those designated areas. If you buy a freehold property then you can own, use and sell it as you desire without getting permission from any third party. It means it is your property and you can live there, rent it out, sell it, or even transfer it to your family members.

This step allowed expatriates and foreign investors to explore and capitalize on Dubai’s real estate sector. Now, people from all over the world visit Dubai to live, explore and enjoy Dubai’s sophisticated lifestyle and establish and expand their businesses. Property owners can live in their purchased properties and also generate capital via rental incomes.

Types Of Freehold Properties In Dubai:

Normally, there are two types of freehold properties: Commercial freehold and residential freehold properties

Commercial Freehold Properties

Properties that are to be used for commercial purposes such as offices, retail and coworking spaces, hotels and restaurants and warehouses, etc. Buyers can use these properties for their businesses and also earn rental income by leasing them out.

Residential Freehold Properties

Places that can be used for living purposes fall under this category. Residential freehold properties include apartments, townhouses, residential plots and villas for sale in freehold zones. Investors can live in these properties and also rent them out to generate rental profit.

Here Is The List Of Freehold Areas In Dubai

Downtown Dubai

Downtown Dubai by Emaar Properties is a mixed-use development. It is located along Sheikh Zayed Road (E11). This family-friendly community is the home of the world’s tallest building “Burj Khalifa” and Dubai Mall. It is one of the best areas to buy apartments for sale in Dubai. Investors can also consider penthouses and villas for sale in Downtown Dubai. The average price for a studio apartment is AED 1.38M, for a 1-bedroom apartment is AED 2 M and for a 2-bedroom apartment is AED 3.6M.

Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR)

Jumeirah Beach Residence is one of the most sought-after self-contained communities in Dubai. It is considered a vertical community that features luxurious apartments for sale in Dubai. Its significant location, connectivity to prime areas, stunning views of the Arabian Gulf and modern amenities enhance its value, attracting local and foreign clients. The average value of a studio apartment is AED 2.93M, a 1-bedroom apartment is valued at AED 2.99M, a 2-bedroom apartment is valued at AED 3.5 M and a 3-bedroom apartment is valued at AED 4.85 M.

Emaar Beachfront

Emaar Beachfront is a freehold gated community located just off Dubai Marina. It features apartments for sale in Dubai, penthouses, villas and townhouses. Emaar Properties is developing this residential neighborhood. Waterfront apartments offer an exciting yet comfortable lifestyle. The average price of an apartment in Emaar Beachfront is AED 5.26 M.

Bluewater Island

Bluewater Island by Meraas Holding is a man-made island in Dubai. Its largest observation wheel, location and proximity to key areas make it an ideal setting for luxury enthusiasts. 1-bedroom apartments are valued at around AED 3.6 million, 2-bedroom apartments are valued at AED 7.5M and 3-bedroom apartments are valued at 11.5M in this freehold community.

Discovery Gardens

Discovery Gardens by Nakheel Properties is one of the most anticipated communities in Dubai. It is located within Jebel Ali District between Sheikh Zayed Road (E11) and Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311). It is a freehold neighborhood, offering countless investment opportunities to local and foreign national investors. A studio apartment is valued at AED 451k and a 1-bedroom apartment is valued at AED 686k. Consider investing in this family-friendly neighborhood and purchase properties for sale at reasonable prices.

Dubai Production City

Dubai Production City by TECOM Group is a mixed-use and freehold neighborhood in Dubai. It is located adjacent to Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road. Residential, retail and commercial properties such as apartments for sale are available. The average prices for studios are around AED 400k, for 1-bedroom apartments are AED 786k and for 2-bedroom apartments are AED 1.1M.

Remraam

Remraam by Dubai Properties is a freehold gated community in Dubailand. It is located at the intersection of Emirates Road (E611) and Hessa Street (D61). A number of low-rise apartment buildings offer studios to multi-bedroom apartments for sale in Remraam. Studio apartments are worth AED 401k, and 1 and 2-bedroom flats are valued at around ARD 591k and AED 977k respectively.

Jumeirah Lake Towers

It is a freehold mixed-use development that features both residential and commercial properties for sale in Dubai. Investors can purchase studios, multi-bedroom apartments, shops, and office spaces in this neighborhood. The price of a studio apartment is approximately AED 735k, and 1 and 2-bedroom apartments are AED 1.9 million and AED 2 million respectively.

The Greens

The Greens by Emaar Properties consists of 40 low-rise residential buildings. It is a freehold neighborhood located along Sheikh Zayed Road (E11). This project is a part of Emirates Living Communities. Apartments of various sizes are available for sale. Locals, expats and foreign nationals can purchase apartments based on their specific preferences. The cost of a 1-bedroom apartment is AED 1.44M, a 2-bedroom apartment is AED 1.79M and that of a 3-bedroom flat is AED 2.34 M.

The Views

The Views by Emaar Properties is a residential development surrounded by The Greens and Emirates Hills 2. Its proximity to Sheikh Zayed Road (E11) and a mix of high to low-rise developments make it a decent living destination. The Views offers a range of apartments for sale in Dubai, attracting people who prefer living in an apartment. Buy a studio with an average price of AED 910k, 1 and 2-bedroom flats at AED 1.5M and AED 2.5M respectively.

Emirates Hills

Emirates Hills by Emaar Properties is a freehold gated community that is known for its spacious and splendid villas for sale in Dubai. It is considered one of the most expensive villa communities in Dubai that attracts luxury enthusiasts from all over the world. People who aspire to experience a villa lifestyle must consider Emirates Hills. Its convenient location, modern amenities and sophisticated living spaces add to its fascination. The price of a 5-bedroom villa is around AED 47.39 million and for a 7-bedroom villa is ED 84.9 million.

Jumeirah Island

Jumeirah Island by Nakheel Properties is a lavish residential development in Dubai. It is located near Dubai Marina and Jumeirah Lake Towers. This is a villa community that enables people to realize their dream of living a sophisticated lifestyle. It is a vibrant and upscale development that aims to offer a luxurious yet comfortable lifestyle. Buy a 4-bedroom villa for sale in Jumeirah Island at AED 19.9 million.

Arabian Ranches

Arabian Ranches is a self-contained project of Emaar Properties. It is a family-friendly neighborhood that is mainly known for its deluxe and modern villas, making it a villa community. Its prime location, easy accessibility, high-end infrastructure and amenities and state-of-the-art lifestyle make it a distinguished area. The average price of a 3-bedroom villa is AED 4.2 million and the cost of a 4-bedroom villa is AED 7.6 million.

Arabian Ranches 2 & 3

Emaar Properties has developed Arabian Ranches 2 and Arabian Ranches 3 in Dubailand. These neighborhoods offer stylish and multi-bedroom villas for sale in Dubai. Villa communities have been developed in these districts to accommodate the needs and aspirations of clients and villa seekers. The average price of a 3-bedroom villa in Arabian Ranches 2 is AED 3.42 million and the cost of a 3-bedroom villa in Arabian Ranches 3 is AED 3.42 million.

Jumeirah Park

Jumeirah Park by Nakheel Properties is a freehold eco-friendly neighborhood in Dubai. It is a villa-only residential development that was designed to facilitate luxury enthusiasts. Located close to Jumeirah Islands, The Meadows and Jumeirah Lake Towers and offers easy access to Sheikh Zayed Road (E11) and Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311). The cost of a 3-bedroom villa for sale in Jumeirah Park is about AED 5.6 million.

The Meadows

The Meadows by Emaar Properties is a residential development that is located near Emirates Hills. Its 1800 + villas make it a villa-based neighborhood. Its strategic location, proximity to prime areas, high-end amenities, state-of-the-art infrastructure and lavish living facilities make it a decent place to live a desired lifestyle. Enjoy a perfect place to retreat and find the ultimate solace and contentment! A 3-bedroom villa is valued at AED 7 million and a 4-bedroom villa is valued at AED 8.6 million in The Meadows.

The Springs

The Springs is a gated villa community. It is popular because of affordable villas for sale in Dubai. Invest in The Springs, buy your favorite villa, find the perfect living space and explore a stylish yet comfortable lifestyle. Enjoy the perfect living in a cozy and secure environment. The average value of a 2-bedroom villa is AED 4.2 million in this district.

The Sustainable City

The Sustainable City by Diamond Developers is a freehold and sustainable neighborhood in Dubai located on Al Qudra Road. It is a self-contained community that offers lavish villas for sale in Dubai. It is also considered a first-zero energy development in the UAE. A decent living place for environmentally conscious investors. Buy a 3-bedroom villa for sale at around AED 4.04 million.

Reem

Reem by Emaar Properties is a residential development that features spacious and luxurious villas for sale. It is a gated community that enables you to purchase and own your desired villas. If you love living a vibrant and ultra-luxury lifestyle then you should explore The Reem lifestyle. The average price of a 3-bedroom villa is AED 2.5 million.

The Lakes & The Valley

Emaar Properties has developed both The Lakes and The Valley. Both projects feature stylish villas for sale. These are modern developments where residents can experience the state of the art living facilities and a comfortable yet stylish lifestyle. The average price of a 3-bedroom villa in The Lakes is AED 5.5 million and that of a 4-bedroom villa is AED 8.1 million. The average price of a villa in The Valley is around AED 2.3 million.

Al Barari

Al Barari by Al Barari Developers is a freehold and eco-friendly gated neighborhood in Dubai. It features luxurious villas and modern apartments for sale in Dubai. It is located at a prime location and offers easy accessibility to several key areas of the city. Invest in Al Barari and choose to live a desired lifestyle! 1 and 2 bedrooms are valued at AED 2.9 million and AED 4.3 million respectively while the average price of a 6-bedroom villa for sale in Al Barari is AED 25.5 million.

Jumeirah

Jumeirah is one of the most sought-after living destinations in Dubai located along the coast of Dubai. It offers a splendid lifestyle and allows residents to live as they desire. No matter whether you aim to purchase a villa for sale in Dubai or an apartment, you can consider Jumeirah to make a real estate investment. An average 3-bedroom flat is valued at AED 8.02 million and a 4-bedroom Jumeirah villa is valued at AED 13.7 million.

Palm Jumeirah 

Palm Jumeirah by Nakheel Properties is the largest man-made Palm-shaped island in Dubai. It is a freehold and self-contained community. It features ultra-luxury properties for sale in Dubai. Both expensive villas and stylish apartments for sale are available in Palm Jumeirah. Its location and high-end offerings make it worth-considering place to invest and live an opulent lifestyle. The price of a 3-bedroom apartment is AED 8.5 million and the cost of a 4-bedroom villa is AED 31.7 million.

Damac Hills

Damac Hills by Damac Properties is a freehold and mixed-use neighborhood located in Dubailand. It features commercial and residential properties. Home seekers can find a range of investment options such as apartments and villas. It is located on Al Qudra Road (D63) and is easily accessible. A 1-bedroom apartment is valued at AED 950,000 and a 4-bedroom villa is valued at AED 4.1 million.

Dubai Hills Estate

Dubai Hills Estate is a joint venture of Emaar Properties and Meraas Holding. It is located along Al Khail Road (E44) near Al Barsha South. It is a freehold gated development that is known for deluxe villas and spacious apartments for sale in Dubai. The availability of modern amenities, proximity to prime areas, significant location, high-end offerings and a splendid lifestyle make it one of the most anticipated neighborhoods in Dubai. The average price of a 4-bedroom villa in Dubai Hills Estate is AED 7.74 million.

Dubai South

Dubai South is a multiphase development. It consists of 8 districts. It is largely a freehold development that offers various sorts of properties for sale, attracting local and foreign nationals. Al Maktoum International Airport is also located in Dubai South. If you aim to live a desired lifestyle in a prominent area then it is one of the best places to consider. The average price of a 4-bedroom villa in Dubai South is AED 3.16 million.

International City

Dubai International City is a modern freehold neighborhood that caters to the diverse needs of investors and home seekers. Apartments for sale in International City, Dubai are meticulously designed to create a perfect living ambiance and allow residents to enjoy the ultimate solace. The price of a 1-bedroom apartment for sale is AED 492,000. Affordable prices and modern amenities make it a desired area to invest in Dubai.

Jumeirah Village Circle

Jumeirah Village Circle by Nakheel Properties is a modern neighborhood in Dubai located between Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311) and Al Khail Road (E44). This is a freehold and a family-friendly neighborhood. Modern infrastructure, comfortable lifestyle, connectivity and easy accessibility and reasonable investment options make it a popular real estate investment destination in Dubai. A 4-bedroom villa is valued at AED 3.14 million in JVC.

Dubai Silicon Oasis

It is a mixed-use development located at the intersection of Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311) and Al Ain Road (E66). Dubai Silicon Oasis is a home to technology park, offering investment and employment opportunities. People can live, work and enjoy themselves here. Apartments and villas for sale in Dubai can be purchased in this neighborhood. The price of a 1-bedroom apartment is AED 550,000 and the average cost of a 3-bedroom is around AED 1.45 million.

Dubai Sports City

Dubai Sports City is a modern development. It intends to promote a healthier lifestyle and involve people in physical activities. It offers an eco-friendly and sustainable living ambiance, allowing residents to live to the fullest. It is also home to the headquarters of the International Cricket Council. Luxury enthusiasts can find villas and apartments for sale in Dubai Sports City. The average price of a 4-bedroom villa is around 4.13 million.

Freehold Areas To Buy Apartments

• Business Bay
• Arjan 
• Barsha Heights
• Culture Village
• Bluewater Island
• Dubai Creek Harbour
• Discovery Gardens
• Downtown Dubai 
• Dubai Harbour
• Dubai Production City
• Dubai Investment Park
• Dubai Marina
• Dubai International Finance Center (DIFC)
• Liwan
• Jumeirah Heights
• Emaar Beachfront
• Jumeirah Beach Residence
• Dubai Science Park
• Dubai Residence Complex (Dubailand)
• The Views
• The Greens
• Remraam
• Old Town
• Mirdif Hills
• Jumeirah Lake Towers
• Madinat Jumeirah Living
• Mirdif Tulip
• Park Gate Residences

Freehold Area In Dubai To Buy Villas

• The Valley
• The Villa
• The Lakes
• The Springs
• The Meadows
• Arabian Ranches
• Arabian Ranches 2
• Arabian Ranches 3
• Emirates Hills
• Jumeirah Park
• Reem
• Palm Jebel Ali
• Jumeirah Islands
• The Sustainable City

Freehold Areas In Dubai to Buy Both Apartments And Villas

• Expo City
• Town Square
• Al Furjan
• Al Barari
• Damac Hills
• Damac Hills 2
• Al Warsan
• Al Khail Heights
• Dubai Land
• International City
• Damac Lagoons
• Dubai Islands
• Dubai Hills Estate
• Dubai Festival City
• Dubai Silicon Oasis
• Jumeirah Village Circle
• Jumeirah Village Triangle
• Jumeirah
• Dubai Waterfront
• Dubai Sports City
• Dubai South
• Jumeirah Golf Estates
• Meydan City
• Mohammed Bin Rashid City
• Mudon 
• Motor City
• Sobha Hartland
• Palm Jumeirah
• Sobha Hartland 2
• Tilal Al Ghaf
• Wadi Al Safa 2
• The World Islands

How To Buy A Freehold Property In Dubai In 2024?

As we have learned, Dubai allows foreign nationals and expats to purchase and own real estate in some designated areas which are normally called freehold zones. It means you can find your home in Dubai, start living a deluxe lifestyle and establish your business by buying real estate in Dubai.

Here Is The Step-By-Step Procedure:

Determine Your Investment Objective

In the first place, you must identify your investment objective. It can be anything. You may be looking for a property to live in, earn, or resell it. Identify your objective based on your needs and preferences before proceeding further. Identify whether you aim to buy commercial or residential real estate in Dubai!

Plan Your Finances

Now, you need to analyze your financial outreach. You must know about how much you fund or payments you can easily manage without disturbing your normal life pattern or expenses. Initial analysis will help you find a property based on your budget range.

Locate Your Property

As a foreigner, you can only purchase freehold properties in Dubai. Find a property that aligns with your preferences and budget range. While looking for a property, do not negate the importance of location. Try to find a property that is easily accessible and is connected to highways. In Dubai, you can purchase both ready-to-move-in and off-plan properties for sale.

Conduct A Thorough Inspection

After locating a property, conduct a thorough inspection to find whether the property requires repairs. Evaluate the status of the property. You can also get the assistance of a real estate agent to have a decent analysis.

Sign The Agreement

Get the services of a professional real estate agent. You can consult with Kelt and Co Realty’s experts while buying real estate in Dubai. Now, it is time to negotiate terms and conditions. Produce a draft, give it a read, ensure that you understand it clearly and sign the Memorandum of Understanding at the registration trustee’s office. 

Obtain An NOC And Transfer The Ownership

Now, apply for a No Objection Certificate. Following that, you need to pay the required fee and get the property transferred at the DLD office.

Benefits Of Owning A Freehold Property In Dubai:

• If you purchase a freehold property in Dubai, you really own it. You enjoy absolute and exclusive ownership of your purchased property. It means no one can dictate your choices and you can use, modify and even sell it when you desire without any restrictions.

• This sort of investment is also considered a long-term investment because you can also transfer it to your heirs or family members. It is an asset that can offer returns for an extended time.

• If you intend to generate wealth or earn returns then you can also build wealth through capital appreciation because the prices of properties increase significantly over time.

• A freehold property is yours. You are the ultimate authority. Unlike leasehold properties, you do not have to deal with the cost and stress of renewing the lease agreement. Once you own it, you always own it.

• If you own a freehold property in Dubai then you can also enjoy visa benefits because the government of Dubai offers renewable visas to people who invest and own real estate in Dubai. If you pass the set threshold then you can surely take advantage of it.

• There is no capital gain or property tax in Dubai. If you own a freehold property, you are not subject to any taxes. It means you would not pay any penny to the government.

Why Invest In A Freehold Property In Dubai?

• If you desire to live a safe, secure and quality lifestyle then Dubai is one of the best destinations. It offers your dream lifestyle and allows residents to live as they desire. By investing in freehold property in Dubai, you can start living a lifestyle that you deserve
• If you own a property in Dubai then you can renovate it, modify it, or even sell it again to earn profit. There is no restriction and you can do whatever you aspire to because owning a freehold property extends unrestricted power
• Owning a property in Dubai’s tax-free environment is no less than a blessing. It means Dubai’s real estate sector’s investment offers high returns, allowing people to generate wealth and earn maximum profits
• No matter whether you are a local, expat, or foreign national, you can purchase and own freehold property in Dubai. Dubai welcomes foreign investors and offers them a range of investment opportunities

Tips To Buy A Freehold Property In Dubai:

• Conduct thorough research and try to understand Dubai’s property market, regulations and market trends
• Familiarize yourself with the property sector, fluctuation and market propensity
• Evaluate your income, property and assets to determine your budget for a specific investment
• You must define your real estate investment objectives before investing your money
• Always prioritize the location factor to gain long-term gains
• Get assistance from real estate professionals to make profitable decisions
• Check whether a property is registered with the relevant authorities and whether a developer is reliable
• If you have concerns then it is better to discuss them with the other party 

The Bottom Line:

Dubai is a beautiful city. It offers a lavish lifestyle and matchless employment and business opportunities, attracting people of every walk from all around the globe. If you aim to live in Dubai, enjoy its wonderful lifestyle, or expand your business in Dubai then you can still purchase and own real estate in Dubai as a foreigner because the city allows foreign nationals to own property in freehold areas. Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah, Jumeirah Village Circle, Arabian Ranches, Emirates Hills and Business Bay are some of the top freehold areas in Dubai. 

Looking For The Best Freehold Property In Dubai? Let Us Guide You Every Step Of The Way!

Kelt and Co Realty is a prominent real estate agency in Dubai. It facilitates real estate transactions in Dubai and helps people in buying, selling and renting real estate. If you are a local, expat, or foreign investor then our team can surely assist you in finding the most viable investment option based on your preferences. Our dedicated team is always available to serve you and secure the best real estate deal on your behalf. Let us find your desired property in Dubai!

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