Dubai allows Masdar City free zone companies to buy property under freehold ownership

New DLD-Masdar City deal opens Dubai’s real estate market to more free zone investors

Last updated: July 24, 2025 | 15:05

2 MIN READ

Until now, many free zone companies across the UAE faced restrictions on owning property directly in Dubai.

Dubai: In a move that further opens up Dubai’s booming real estate market, the Dubai Land Department (DLD) has signed a memorandum of cooperation with Masdar City that will allow companies operating within its free zones to own land and property under the emirate’s freehold system.

This strategic step is aimed at expanding investor access and aligns with the broader goals of the Dubai Real Estate Strategy 2033 and the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, both of which aim to diversify investment flows and support sustainable market growth.

New rights for free zone firms

Until now, many free zone companies across the UAE faced restrictions on owning property directly in Dubai. Under the new agreement, companies licensed in Masdar City’s free zones will be able to purchase property across designated freehold areas in the emirate—subject to eligibility criteria and within a clear legal and administrative framework.

The partnership was signed between Majid Al Marri, CEO of the Real Estate Registration Sector at DLD, and Ahmed Baghoum, CEO of Masdar City, at an official ceremony in Dubai.

Boosting transparency, efficiency

Both organisations will now work together to implement a streamlined system that includes:

Direct coordination between DLD and the Free Zone Authority
Faster, simplified registration procedures
A digital platform for application submissions, status tracking, and document verification
Guidance and legal support for interested firms

The goal is to create a smoother, more transparent process for companies to enter the Dubai real estate market and to help them make informed ownership decisions.

Why it matters

The update is expected to benefit tech firms, green businesses, and innovation-driven companies operating in Masdar City, many of which are already looking to expand into Dubai.

DLD’s Al Marri said the initiative “enhances the integration of the real estate ecosystem” and reflects Dubai’s ongoing efforts to build a more open, investor-friendly environment.

Masdar City’s Baghoum added that the cooperation “simplifies property registration processes” and supports businesses aiming to scale operations in the UAE.

What’s next

The new framework is now being jointly developed, with rollout expected in phases. As this initiative progresses, it could set a precedent for similar arrangements between DLD and other UAE free zones, making Dubai’s property market more accessible than ever for global businesses.

Justin VargheseYour Money Editor

Justin is a personal finance author and seasoned business journalist with over a decade of experience. He makes it his mission to break down complex financial topics and make them clear, relatable, and relevant—helping everyday readers navigate today’s economy with confidence. Before returning to his Middle Eastern roots, where he was born and raised, Justin worked as a Business Correspondent at Reuters, reporting on equities and economic trends across both the Middle East and Asia-Pacific regions.