Dubai Property Guide: How To Convert Leasehold To Freehold

By Author: icon real estate
Total Articles: 26
Comment this article

Dubai has built a global reputation as one of the most attractive real estate destinations, offering a wide variety of investment and residential opportunities. From luxury apartments to sprawling villas, property ownership in Dubai has always been a topic of interest for both local and international buyers.
One important aspect of property ownership in the UAE is understanding the difference between leasehold and freehold properties. While leasehold properties allow ownership for a fixed period of time, freehold properties give buyers complete and permanent ownership rights.
Dubai’s real estate scene has developed into one of the most dynamic property markets globally. The Dubai Land Department (DLD) reported that in 2024, the emirate’s real estate transactions reached a value of AED 761 billion through 226,000 deals.
Activity remained strong in the first half of 2025, with official figures from the Dubai Media Office showing a transaction value of AED 431 billion and 125,538 deals. In this thriving market, many property owners are now curious about the process of converting a leasehold to a freehold property. ...
... This comprehensive guide will explain the legal foundation, eligibility, costs, and the precise steps involved, using current information.

Understanding Leasehold and Freehold in Dubai

Dubai Law No. (7) of 2006 outlines the rules for property ownership in the emirate. Nationals of the UAE and other Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries are permitted to hold freehold property anywhere in Dubai. In contrast, non-UAE nationals are restricted to owning freehold property only in specific, designated zones. They may also acquire other long-term rights, such as a usufruct or a leasehold, for a duration of up to 99 years. This legal framework is what allows for the conversion of properties to freehold status when the government officially designates new areas for such ownership...Read More Visit our Website www.iconre.co