Dubai Approves Freehold Conversion for Properties on Sheikh Zayed Road and Al Jaddaf
Private property owners along Sheikh Zayed Road (between the Trade Centre Roundabout and the Water Canal) and in the Al Jaddaf area now have the option to convert their properties to freehold ownership, as announced by the Dubai Land Department (DLD).
This opportunity is open to all nationalities, with a total of 457 plots eligible for conversion: 128 plots on Sheikh Zayed Road and 329 plots in Al Jaddaf.
How to Apply for Freehold Conversion
Eligibility Check: Property owners must confirm their eligibility through the Dubai Rest APP
Submission: Submit a request to the DLD for land evaluation and valuation.
Fee Determination: Service and common area charges will be calculated as per Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA) guidelines. A conversion fee of 30% of the property’s valuation, based on Gross Floor Area, will be applicable.
Ownership Transfer: After payment, the DLD will issue a map and a freehold ownership title deed.
Impact on Real Estate
This initiative is expected to enhance the market value of properties in these areas, offering landowners significant benefits. Converting to freehold ownership is anticipated to stimulate growth in Dubai’s real estate sector.
Eng. Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita, Director General of the DLD, emphasized that this step aligns with Dubai’s Real Estate Strategy 2033, reinforcing its status as a global hub for economic activity and real estate investment.
Smart Rental Index
Dubai has also introduced a smart rental index, which includes features such as:
- Average rent by area and building
- Star rating for properties
- Details on maintenance quality, parking, and more
Buildings with higher ratings may command higher rents, while older properties can increase rent after renovations or upgrades.
Leasehold vs. Freehold
Leasehold: Ownership is limited to a fixed term (up to 99 years), and the land remains under the freehold owner’s control.
Freehold: Provides full ownership of both the property and the land it occupies, with no restrictions on sale, leasing, or occupancy.
