What non-UAE nationals can own in Dubai, and how freehold differs from leasehold and usufruct.
By SkyBuild Real Estate
Last reviewed
3 min read
If you’re not a UAE national, the kind of ownership you can hold in Dubai depends on where the property is. Here is the difference between freehold and leasehold, and what to check before you buy.
What the law allows
Dubai’s real property registration law (Dubai Legislation Portal, opens in a new tab) generally reserves property ownership for UAE and GCC nationals and certain companies. In areas designated by the Ruler, non-UAE nationals may hold freehold ownership with no time limit, or usufruct and leasehold rights for up to 99 years. The designated areas are set out in Regulation No. 3 of 2006 (Dubai Legislation Portal, opens in a new tab), with more added by later resolutions.
Freehold vs leasehold: side by side
| Question | Freehold | Leasehold or usufruct |
|---|---|---|
| What you hold | Ownership of the property | A right to use the property for a fixed period |
| How long | No time limit | Up to 99 years |
| Registered with DLD | Yes | Yes |
| What to confirm | The plot is in a designated freehold area | The remaining term and what happens when it ends |
What is usufruct?
Usufruct is the right to use a property and benefit from it, for example by living in it or letting it, without owning it outright. The rights and conditions are set by the registered agreement, so read it closely and ask a lawyer to explain anything unclear.
What to check before you buy
- Confirm the ownership type and owner on the title deed using DLD’s title deed verification (Dubai Land Department, opens in a new tab).
- Confirm the plot, not just the community name, is in a designated area.
- For leasehold, check how many years remain and whether the term can be renewed.
- Ask your lender whether the ownership type affects financing.
For the full buying sequence, see how to buy property in Dubai.
Sources
- Law No. (7) of 2006 Concerning Real Property Registration in the Emirate of Dubai (opens in a new tab)Dubai Legislation Portal. Checked 23 September 2026.
- Regulation No. (3) of 2006 Determining Areas for Ownership by Non-UAE Nationals of Real Property in the Emirate of Dubai (opens in a new tab)Dubai Legislation Portal. Checked 23 September 2026.
- Verify title deed (opens in a new tab)Dubai Land Department. Checked 23 September 2026.
This guide has been prepared by SkyBuild Real Estate for general information only. It is not investment, legal, tax or financial advice, and should not be relied on as the sole basis for a transaction decision. Rules, fees and eligibility criteria change. Confirm current requirements with the relevant authority, and take independent professional advice on your own circumstances. Sources were checked on the dates shown.