The Dubai Land Department (DLD) has announced that private property owners along Sheikh Zayed Road (between the Trade Centre Roundabout and the Water Canal) and in the Al Jaddaf area can now convert their properties to freehold ownership. According to a Khaleej Times report, this move is open to all nationalities and is expected to boost the market value of eligible properties.
A total of 457 plots are eligible for conversion, comprising 128 plots along Sheikh Zayed Road and 329 plots in Al Jaddaf. Property owners can verify their eligibility and initiate the process through the “Dubai REST” app.
The conversion requires submitting an application to DLD, which will evaluate and determine the property’s value. A 30% fee based on the Gross Floor Area valuation will apply, along with common area fees and service charges in accordance with Real Estate Regulatory Authority guidelines. Once fees are settled, owners will receive a freehold title deed for their property.
Eng. Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita, Director General of DLD, highlighted that this initiative aligns with Dubai’s Real Estate Strategy 2033, aimed at solidifying the city’s status as a global economic hub and a top destination for real estate investment.
Freehold ownership provides absolute ownership of the property and land, allowing owners to sell, lease, or occupy at their discretion, unlike leasehold properties, which come with term limits and usage restrictions.
