The UAE real estate market often discusses the choice between freehold and non-freehold areas when purchasing property. In Dubai, most areas are freehold, allowing foreign nationals the opportunity to own their ideal homes.
Nonetheless, there are non-freehold areas in Dubai exclusively reserved for Emiratis and GCC nationals. Discover more about these Dubai non-freehold areas, such as:
- Property type.
- Prices.
- Other essential details.
What is the Difference between Freehold and Non-Freehold Areas in Dubai?
Dubai’s government has demarcated freehold regions in which foreigners can own property. Similarly, leasehold properties enable non-nationals to lease property for 10 to 99 years.
This inclusion of both leasehold properties and freehold properties has made non-UAE residents pivotal in the Dubai property market.
Also, Dubai’s real estate industry plays a vital role in fueling economic growth.
In 2022, the real estate market witnessed a remarkable milestone as sales of both freehold and non-freehold properties surpassed 265.6 billion AED.
How Can I Recognize Non-Freehold Areas in Dubai?
Dubai’s non-freehold areas refer to neighborhoods that don’t permit foreign investments, limiting property ownership to UAE and GCC nationals only.
To determine if your preferred area or project falls under a freehold or non-freehold category, it’s best to consult a local real estate agent or verify with the Dubai Land Department (DLD).
Most Famous Non-Freehold Areas in Dubai
Let’s explore some of the famous non-freehold neighborhoods in Dubai. Also, it’s worth noting that certain non-freehold areas may have small subcommunities with freehold properties.
Moreover, for conclusive confirmation regarding the ownership status of a project/property, it’s advisable to consult a reputable real estate agent or DLD.
Jumeirah
Jumeirah, a picturesque coastal neighborhood in Dubai, is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere. It has three sub-districts: Jumeirah 1, 2, and 3, boasting an array of shops, entertainment venues, and leisure destinations like Boxpark, etc.
Property options in Jumeirah range from 3-bedroom villas to spacious houses accommodating up to seven bedrooms, catering to bigger families.
Jumeirah is synonymous with opulence and prestige, owing to its beachfront residences and proximity to Sheikh Zayed Road (E11), the city’s main highway.
While Jumeirah does offer a mix of both freehold and non-freehold properties, the majority fall under the non-freehold category.
- The starting price for a Villa in Jumeirah is 4.9 million AED.
- Alternatively, the starting price for an apartment in Jumeirah is 1.2 million AED.
Umm Suqeim
Umm Suqeim, another prominent non-freehold area in Dubai, has five subcommunities:
- Umm Suqeim 1.
- Umm Suqeim 2.
- Umm Suqeim 3.
- Umm Suqeim Road.
- Madinat Jumeirah Living.
Similar to Jumeirah, Umm Suqeim offers a vibrant mix of cafes, shops, and beachfront entertainment venues, attracting expatriates, Emirati locals, and tourists alike.
Also, a notable advantage for renters and homeowners in Umm Suqeim is its strategic location between the older and newer parts of Dubai.
What’s more, Umm Suqeim stands out as one of Dubai’s affluent non-freehold areas:
- Investors seeking to purchase a Villa in Umm Suqeim can anticipate starting sales price of 5.9 million AED.
- For buying an apartment, one should keep 1.1 million AED in mind as the starting price.
Al Barsha
Al Barsha, now known as New Dubai, is home to various villa compounds and apartment buildings. The larger villas in Al Barsha hold particular appeal for Emirati families, offering a secluded atmosphere, proximity to supermarkets like Aswaq and Spinney, and easy access to schools.
Moreover, those seeking to build their own homes will also find residential plots available for sale alongside villas and flats.
Albeit some newer sub-communities in Al Barsha, such as Villa Lantana and Al Barsha South, offer freehold properties for expatriate ownership, the majority of properties in the area are exclusively available to GCC nationals and Emiratis.
- Apartments in Al Barsha can be found for sale starting at 715,000 AED.
- While Villas typically start at 3 million AED.
Mirdif
Mirdif is a popular area that allows property ownership exclusively for locals and GCC nationals. The area is renowned for its diverse villa collection.
What’s more, Mirdif villas offer ample indoor and outdoor spaces, granting residents the luxury of private gardens.
Also, a notable highlight of Mirdif is its pet-friendly environment and strong sense of community.
- If you are seeking to purchase a Villa in this locality, you can expect 1.9 million AED as the starting price for houses.
- Also, the starting cost begins at 430,000 AED for an apartment in Mirdif.
Al Warqaa
Al Warqaa, an attractive neighborhood, offers spacious and affordable properties catering to Arab & Asian expats and locals.
The area has 5-subcommunities, namely Al Warqaa 1 to 5, that feature villas and apartments exclusively for GCC nationals and Emiratis.
Apart from its abundance of conveniences like supermarkets, clinics, and outlets, Al Warqaa boasts two impressive parks as standout features. Additionally, the famous Mushrif Park, with its forest-like ambiance, is also nearby.
To buy a Villa in Al Warqaa, the price typically starts at 3.5 million AED.
List of Non-Freehold Areas in Dubai
Here’s a quick rundown of some of the non-freehold areas in Dubai:
- Trade Center 1
- Trade Center 2.
- Satwa.
- The Galleria.
- Warsan 2.
- Rigga Al Buteen.
- OudMetha.
- Port Saeed.
- Umm Hurair.
- Oud Al Muteena.
- Umm Al Sheif.
- Ras Al Khor (Samari Project).
- Nad Al Hamar.
- Naif.
- Hor Al Anz.
- NadShamma.
- Nad Al Sheba.
- Emirates Golf Club.
- Dar Al Wasl.
- Ayal Nasir.
- Al Waheda.
- Dubai Creek Club.
- Madinat Dubai Al Melaheyah.
- Al Sufouh.
- Al Safa.
- Al Souq Al Khabeer.
- Al Twar.
- Al Mizhar.
- Al Refaa.
- Al Rigga.
- Al Ras.
- Al Qouz.
- Al Sabkha.
- Al Qusais.
- Al Murar.
- Al Mankhool.
- Al Mamzar Centre.
- Al Manara.
- Al Muhaisnah.
- Al Muntazah Complex – Jebel Ali.
- Al Nada.
- Al Rashidiya.
- Al Muteena.
- Al Muraqqabat.
- Al Awir.
- Al Baraha.
- Abu Hail.
- Al Buteen.
- Al Kheeran.
- Al Karama.
- Al Jaddaf.
- Al Hudaiba.
- Al Khawaneej.
- Al Jaffiliyah.
- Al Ghurair Centre.
- Al Ehibab.
- Al Daghaya.
- Al Badaa.
- Al Garhoud.
- Al Hamriya.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can Foreign Investors Buy Property in Non-Freehold Areas of Dubai?
A: No, Non-freehold areas are only limited to GCC nationals and Emiratis.
Q: How to determine the Status of Property – Whether it’s Freehold or Non-Freehold?
A: It’s best to consult with Dubai Land Property or a trusted real estate agent for definitive confirmation regarding the ownership status.
Final Words
Non-Freehold regions have become popular among expatriates and investors seeking rental properties in recent years.
Therefore, as an Emirati or GCC national, investing in these neighborhoods can potentially yield promising returns in the future.