A large number of investors are interested in Dubai because the city offers a stable economy, various investment-friendly initiatives from the government, a world-class infrastructure and a wide selection of investment properties with high payback rates of up to 12% per annum. At the same time, foreign citizens can invest in real estate with full ownership rights only in specific zones called ‘Freehold Zones’, which have become available to foreign buyers since 2002 in accordance with the Decree of the Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. We have prepared a detailed article which contains information about what a Freehold Zone is and in which areas foreign buyers can get the most interesting offers for buying property for both living in and for investment purposes.

What are Freehold Zones in Dubai?

Only citizens of the UAE and the Gulf States (GCC) have 100% ownership rights of real estate throughout the emirate of Dubai. Foreign individuals can own real estate without the restriction of their rights exclusively in areas designated by the Government of Dubai as Freehold Zones, according to Article 4 of Law No. 7 of 2006. The right of free ownership is an opportunity to use a real estate property at its discretion, both for personal and investment purposes. This includes the rental of real estate, its resale, the ability to issue it as a gift and/or pass it on through inheritance. This is the difference between Freehold and Leasehold rights (when real estate is leased to a foreign citizen for 99 years). Many people often confuse the concept of Free Zones with the concept of zones of unconditional ownership (Freehold Zones). Therefore, it is important to understand what the difference between them is:

<ul><li>Free zones in Dubai are zones where foreign citizens can own and manage their business 100% and without paying taxes.</li><li>Freehold Zones are specially designated zones where foreign citizens can buy and 100% own residential real estate.</li></ul>

The best Freehold-areas for buying apartments

The most important factor when choosing a property to buy for investment purposes is where will allow you to obtain the highest income from the invested funds. This section contains information about the areas of Dubai where you can buy Freehold apartments with the maximum return on investment. Note: When buying ready-made residential real estate with a minimum cost of  AED 750,000 (USD 204,200), a foreign citizen is entitled to apply for a 3-year investor visa. This visa also applies to their family members and can be extended an unlimited number of times. If the investor plans to purchase off-plan real estate ( during the construction stage), then they will be allowed to apply for a visa only after completion of all construction work on the project.

Arjan

Arjan is part of the Dubailand district with the main developer of the area, Dubai Properties Group. Arjan consists of 10 phases of development and has 157 plots. The area is conveniently located at the intersection of the Al Qudra Road (D63) and Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311) highways. Arjan offers apartments with 1–3 bedrooms in both ready and off-plan stages for sale, which are situated in complexes of small and medium storeys. The sale price for a 1-bedroom apartment starts from AED 320,000 (USD 87,200).

Barsha Heights

The vibrant community of Barsha Heights was formerly known as TECOM in accordance with the name of the main developer. There are many business centers, restaurants, supermarkets, cafes and nightclubs here. The neighbourhood is situated close to other residential communities such as The Greens and is also next to Hessa Street which is the main artery that links the Sheikh Zayed Road to the Al Khail Road. Barsha Heights Community offers 95 completed residential projects where you can buy studios, apartments with 1–4 bedrooms, as well as penthouses in high-rise complexes. Hotel services are available in some complexes as well, such as the Grand Heights Hotel or First Central Hotel Suites. The minimum cost of a 1-bedroom apartment here is AED 540,000 (USD 147,000).

Bluewaters Island

Bluewaters Island is a multi-billion dollar project located along the coast next to the area of JBR, and developed by Meraas. The complex is located just after the Dubai Marina area and is a 10-minute drive from Palm Jumeirah and the famous Burj Al Arab Hotel. The largest Ferris wheel in the world, Ain Dubai, with a height of 754 ft, and the recently opened Madame Tussauds Wax Museum, which is the first museum of its kind in the UAE, are the main attractions of Bluewaters Island. This area is attractive not only for tourists who want to rent real estate but also for investors considering the purchase of luxury apartments with 1–4 bedrooms in the ready or off-plan stage. The minimum cost of a 1-bedroom apartment for sale here is AED 2,195,000 (USD 598,000).

Business Bay

This neighbourhood is located near Downtown Dubai and is situated along the Dubai Water Canal. Business Bay has a high demand among foreign investors, due to the availability of the developed infrastructure and its world-famous attractions. In addition, Business Bay is one of the central areas of the city with concentrated business activity, so the area is in high demand among single professionals, couples and business individuals. Here you can buy studios, apartments with 1–3 bedrooms, penthouses with 4–5 bedrooms and duplexes. The price for apartments in this area starts from AED 600,000 (USD 163,400).

Culture Village

The Culture Village area is also known as Jaddaf Waterfront and is located along the coast of Dubai Creek. The developer of the community is Dubai’s biggest developer – Dubai Properties. The project demonstrates a rich Islamic history and culture as there are museums and literary societies on the territory of Culture Village. The social and transport infrastructure is also well developed here. The neighbourhood offers residential properties such as luxury apartments with 1–7 bedrooms which are serviced by 5-star hotels. The developer also plans to build several skyscrapers, luxury hotels, a marina, an exhibition center and a landscaped embankment in the future. The cost for the purchase of real estate here starts from AED 820,000 (USD 223,245).

Discovery Gardens

Discovery Gardens is a developed community that offers a wide selection of freehold residential properties at affordable prices. The area is located between Emirates Road and Sheikh Zayed Road, next to the popular Ibn Battuta Mall. The developer of this project is Nakheel. All construction work in Discovery Gardens is fully completed, so when you buy a property here, you can immediately move in or rent it out. The Discovery Gardens district includes about 300 low-rise buildings, in which 26,000 residential units are concentrated. The community offers studios and apartments with 1 & 2 bedrooms. Discovery Gardens is widely popular not only among single professionals but also among small families. The minimum sale price of a 1-bedroom apartment in Discovery Gardens is AED 400,000 (USD 108,900).

Downtown Dubai

This is the central district of Dubai, where business and tourist activity merge into one. Emaar Properties is the main developer of the Downtown Dubai area and offers both commercial and residential real estate. The key attractions of the emirate include the Dancing Fountains, The Dubai Mall and the Burj Khalifa which are all located right in the heart of Downtown Dubai. The well- developed area offers a premium lifestyle, as well as studios and apartments with 1–7 bedrooms for sale. The initial cost of a 1-bedroom apartment in this area is AED 720,000 (USD 196,000).

Dubai Creek Harbour

The Creek is a joint project of Emaar Properties and the state developer, Dubai Holding which will house.  the Dubai Square shopping district, the tallest tower in the world, and a 2.5-mile marina on its territory. The Ras Al Khor unique nature reserve is also situated nearby. To date, construction work is actively underway in the area and real estate is available for purchase only in 6 residential buildings. Dubai Creek Harbour community offers apartments with 1–4 bedrooms, luxury penthouses with 3–6 bedrooms and a limited collection of townhouses for sale. The minimum cost of apartments in the neighbourhood is AED 800,000 (USD 217,800).

Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC)

This is the global financial center for the markets of the Middle East and South Asia, as well as Africa. The multifunctional area is located next to Downtown Dubai and Business Bay and consists of business, cultural and leisure facilities, including restaurants, first-class shopping and entertainment centers, famous art galleries, as well as residential and commercial buildings. Investors are offered studios, 1–3 bedroom apartments and luxury penthouses with 4–5 bedrooms for sale. The price for a 1-bedroom apartment starts from AED 895,000 (USD 244,000).

Dubai Investment Park (DIP)

This is a multifunctional complex from Dubai Investment Park development company, which offers a wide range of residential and commercial real estate. The World Expo 2020 is located next to the DIP area in the Jebel Ali Free Zone. Investors are offered options for buying real estate, such as apartments with 1–3 bedrooms or entire buildings, which are located in 7 ecologically clean areas. The minimum purchase price for apartments is AED 350,000 (USD 95,300).

Dubai Production City

The Dubai Production City area is located on the outskirts of Dubai and has a convenient exit to the Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road. The former name of the community was The International Media Production Zone (IMPZ) and TECOM Group is the developing company. At the very beginning, the district was created to serve companies that specialize in the production of mass media, however, as of today, Dubai Production City is a developed holistic community that offers residential, commercial and retail property. At the same time, residential real estate is in the highest demand among investors, since there is always a huge demand for rental housing in Production City. The minimum cost of a 1-bedroom apartment in Production City starts from AED 320,000 (USD 87,150).

Dubai Residence Complex

Dubai Residence Complex is an ambitious project with a strategic location in the Dubailand area, between Al Ain Road (E66) and Emirates Road (E611). The Dubai International Academic City educational center is also nearby. The community will have its own mosques, parks, libraries, post office, hotels, educational institutions, police stations, kindergarten, hospitals and other infrastructure after the completion of all construction works. The Dubai Residence Complex offers buyers and investors the opportunity to purchase off-plan facilities and properties. The minimum price for a 1-bedroom apartment, once completed, will be AED 330,000 (USD 90,000).

Dubai Science Park

Dubai Science Park is a business community with a convenient location along Umm Suqeim Road (D63) which also has easy access to the Al Khail Road. More than 350 local and international companies related to energy, science and environmental protection are located here. The area offers studios and apartments with 1-3 bedrooms, which are suitable for both  the purpose of living and for investment, as apartments here are in great demand among specialists working in Dubai Science Park. The initial price for the purchase of a 1-bedroom residence is AED 664,000 (USD 181,000).

Dubai Studio City

This free economic zone was created back in 2005 by TECOM Investments. The area is popular for hosting media and production companies and has a good location along the Al Qudra Road D63 highway, which provides easy and fast access to most areas of Dubai. Dubai Studio City offers studios and apartments with 1–3 bedrooms and the area is ideal for investment. The minimum cost of a 1-bedroom residence constitutes AED 450,000 (USD 122,550).

Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR)

This community is one of the most sought-after areas of Dubai. Such iconic places such as The Walk and The Beach are located here. About 35 residential complexes offer premium real estate with studios, 1–4 bedroom apartments and luxury penthouses with spacious terraces. There are also 5 world-class hotels and a private beach with an extensive list of resort entertainment venues and services. The price of a 1-bedroom apartment for sale starts from AED 920,000 (USD 250,500).

Jumeirah Heights

Jumeirah Heights is a self-sufficient community that offers the feel and atmosphere of a suburban life. The area offers a large number of top-level amenities, including gyms, swimming pools and 24-hour security service. The project was developed by Nakheel Properties. Jumeirah Heights has a convenient location opposite Jumeirah Islands, which is just a 10-minute drive from the ever popular JBR Beach and Dubai Marina. The residential complex consists of 6 buildings that offer elite 2 and 3 bedroom apartments of various configurations, as well as duplex apartments. The price for a 2-bedroom residence here starts from AED 1,800,000 (USD 490,100).

Jumeirah Lake Towers (JLT)

JLT is an ideal place for family life, as the area offers all the necessary amenities in the form of kindergartens, swimming pools, retail outlets, gyms and more.  The JLT community includes 26 clusters of residential and commercial real estate and the area is located in the vicinity of several artificial lakes and green parks. At the same time, there are no more than 3 complexes with studios, 1–5 residential apartments, 1-4-bedroom duplexes and 3-5-bedroom penthouses per cluster. The minimum cost of a 1-bedroom apartment in the JLT area is AED 400,000 (USD 109,000).

Liwan

Liwan is developed by Dubai Holding and is part of the Dubailand district. The residential complex is located in the eastern part of Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO), at the intersection of Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311) and Dubai-Al Ain Road (E66). This strategic location provides quick and direct access to Dubai Sports City, Mudon, Arabian Ranches and Jumeirah Golf Estates. Along Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, you can directly reach Dubai International Airport, which will be especially convenient if you often have to fly on business trips or just like to travel frequently. One to three-bedroom apartments can be purchased in the area with a starting price of AED 280,000 (USD 76,250).

Mirdif Hills

This is a multifunctional project that is situated on the Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Street highway, next to Mushrif Park. The master Mirdif development was built by Dubai Investments Real Estate Company (DIRC). Mirdif Hills is the only project in Mirdif with freehold property, which includes residential, commercial and retail buildings divided into 3 blocks. There is also a 4-star hotel with 116 rooms and a hospital. Mirdif Hills offers more than 1,500 apartments, including studios, 1–4 bedroom apartments and 128 serviced residential units. The minimum price to purchase a 1-bedroom apartment is AED 885,500 (USD 241,100).

Old Town Dubai

The developer of Old Town is Emaar Properties and the community is part of Downtown Dubai. There are 35 low-rise and medium-rise buildings in the district, which are built in the classical style of Arabic architecture. As of today, the project is fully ready, as all construction work was completed back in 2006. Business Bay, Al Safa and Al Wasl are the neighbouring districts and the Souk Al Bahar, The Dubai Mall and the Burj Khalifa are all within walking distance. Old Town Dubai includes 1,500 residential units and 6 subdistricts: Yansoon with 9 complexes, Reehan with 8 complexes, Zafran and Miska – 5 low-rise buildings each and the districts of Zanzebil and Kamun have 4 multi-storey buildings each. Investors are offered 1–4 bedroom apartments and a limited collection of penthouses. The initial price for the purchase of real estate here is AED 1,150,000 (USD 313,100).

Park Gate Residences

This sub-community is located in the Zabeel Park area and consists of 4 high-rise buildings: Park Gate A, Park Gate B, Park Gate C and Park Gate D. The project was put into operation in January 2021 by the developer, Wasl Asset Management Group. The offered real estate in Park Gate Residences includes 1-3 bedroom apartments, townhouses on the podium and penthouses overlooking the beautiful Zabeel Park. The minimum cost for buying a property in the complex constitutes AED 1,279,000 (USD 348,250).

Remraam

The quiet gated community of Remraam is part of the Dubailand neighbourhood, which was constructed by Dubai Properties. The district originally got its name in honour of the plant “Remraam”, which is commonly found in the UAE. The neighbourhood offers a calm atmosphere and all the necessary amenities and services for its residents. Remraam consists of 2 subdistricts called Al Thamam and Al Ramth, which include 56 low-rise buildings. Real estate in the area is represented by studios and apartments with 1–3 bedrooms and the minimum price for a 1-bedroom residence is AED 350,000 (USD 95,000).

The Greens

The Greens is a popular project that is situated along the Sheikh Zayed Road, next to The Emirates Golf Club and developed by Emaar. The project consists of 10 complexes, which include 40 low-rise residential buildings with 4-7 floors. There are many walking areas, places for recreation and sports facilities here. In addition, pets are allowed in the area as well. Investors are offered 1–4 bedroom apartments as well as studios, with an initial price of AED 526,000 (USD 143,000).

The Views

The district of The Views consists of 10 groups of buildings located around the lake, between the community of The Greens and The Emirates Golf Club golf course. This neighbourhood belongs to the Emirates Living community and due to its close proximity to the Sheikh Zayed Road, residents of The Views have a good connection route to other areas of Dubai. The development consists of medium and low-rise complexes that offer studios and apartments with 1–4 bedrooms. The initial cost of a residence here is AED 830,000 (USD 226,000).

The best Freehold areas for buying apartments and villas

This section of the article contains information about the best Freehold areas where you can buy both apartments and villas.

Dubai Marina

Dubai Marina is a prestigious area with a well-developed infrastructure that is necessary to lead a premium lifestyle. There are restaurants, spas, salons, parks, world-class shopping centers and other facilities located here. You can buy studios, 1–4 bedroom apartments, 2–6 bedroom penthouses and 3–5 bedroom podium villas in this district. The Dubai Marina area is in great demand among tenants and investors of the emirate. The average sale cost of a 1-bedroom apartment is from AED 1,300,000 (USD 354,000). The minimum price for a 3-bedroom villa is AED 2,950,000 (USD 803,200).

Al Barari

Most of the territory (80%) of Al Barari consists of landscaped lakes, freshwater streams and themed gardens, and together they create a real “European garden” in the middle of the desert. The community is conveniently located next to the Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road. Studios, 1 and 2 bedroom apartments, duplexes and 3–6 bedroom luxury villas are offered for purchase here. The initial cost of a 1-bedroom apartment for sale is from AED 1,000,000 (USD 272,000). The minimum price for a 3-bedroom villa is AED 3,500,000 (USD 953,000).

Al Furjan

The closed community of Al Furjan offers a large selection of apartments and villas with a full range of services and amenities for the most comfortable stay. The community is located next to Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, Discovery Gardens and the Ibn Battuta Mall. The property for sale is represented by 1–4 bedroom apartments and 3–6 bedroom villas. The minimum price for a 1-bedroom apartment is AED 400,000 (USD 109,000), and for a 3-bedroom villa, prices start from AED 1,600,000 (USD 435,600). There are also studios, townhouses and land plots for sale here as well.

Al Warsan

Al Warsan (or Al Warisan) is a multifunctional construction district which is currently under development. Al Warsan is adjacent to the popular residential area of International City and includes 4 subdistricts. Here you can buy 1-2 bedroom apartments at a starting price of AED 360,000 (USD 98,000), and 3-bedroom villas at a price of AED 1,500,000 (USD 408,000). The neighbourhood is in great demand among both couples and single professionals.

DAMAC Hills

DAMAC Hills is one of the key luxury communities in the Dubailand area. Residences in the community are located around the PGA 18 hole championship golf course and there is a 4,305,564 sq. ft park area within the community. Real estate in DAMAC Hills is presented in the form of 1–3 bedroom apartments priced from AED 390,000 (USD 106,000), and 3–6 bedroom villas are priced from AED 800,000 (USD 218,000). Studios, townhouses and land plots are also available for purchase here.

Dubai Festival City

Dubai Festival City (DFC) is a multifunctional complex that houses residential, commercial and entertainment buildings. In addition, it is one of the most prestigious family communities in Dubai which neighbours the Dubai Creek Canal. Attractions such as Festival Bay, Dubai Festival City Mall and IMAGINE Dubai are located here. Residential property available for purchase in the area includes studios, 1–3 bedroom apartments, 3–7 bedroom villas, townhouses and land plots. The minimum cost for a 1-bedroom residence is AED 1,200,000 (USD 327,000), and for a 3-bedroom villa this rises only slightly at AED 1,500,000 (USD 408,400).

Dubai Hills Estate

Dubai Hills Estate is an off-plan premium level community that is a joint development between Emaar Properties and Meraas Holding. The are three building zones that are included in the project:

<ul><li>Opposite Al Khail Road, where 2 shopping malls and a number of medium-rise residential blocks offering 22,000 apartments will be located.</li><li>97 villas and 300 villas in Fairways and Parkways communities will be built around the golf course.</li><li>Townhouses and villas will also be presented in the Maple and Sidra complexes.</li></ul>

Affordable residential real estate in Dubai Hills Estate includes 1–5 bedroom apartments, the minimum price for which is AED 650,000 (USD 177,000), as well as villas with 3–7 bedrooms at a starting price of AED 2,500,000 (USD 681,000).

Dubai Silicon Oasis

Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO) is a free economic zone and a modern technology park at the intersection of the Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311) and Al Ain Road (E66) highways. The community is located next to Academic City and has the following properties available for purchase: studios, 1–7 bedroom apartments, townhouses and 3–6 bedroom villas. The minimum cost for apartments in this area is AED 400,000 (USD 109,000), and for villas – AED 3,000,000 (USD 817,000).

Dubai South

Dubai South was originally known as Dubai World Central. Al Maktoum International Airport is located in the center of the general development plan of the district. The community consists of 8 integrated subdistricts, including a residential area, which provides the construction of residences with world-class amenities. Investors are offered studios, apartments with 1–7 bedrooms and 2–5 bedroom villas. The initial cost of apartment residences in Dubai South is AED 330,000 (USD 898,000), and the minimum price for villas is AED 950,000 (USD 259,000).

Dubai Sports City

This complex is conveniently situated next to Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, with first-class gyms, playgrounds, swimming pools and treadmills all within the community. The location of the project means that residents need to own their own personal vehicle so they can quickly access the necessary infrastructure and local facilities. The real estate available for purchase in the area includes apartments with 1–3 bedrooms and villas with 3–6 bedrooms. The cost of apartments starts from AED 370,000 (USD 101,000), and villas strat from AED 2,200,000 (USD 599,000).

Dubai Waterfront

This complex is located near the Palm Jebel Ali and is currently in the stage of active development. Upon its completion, the development will become the largest man-made embankment with commercial, residential, hotel and entertainment facilities. There are 2 residential complexes within the territory of the community called Badrah and Veneto, which both offer 1–3 bedroom apartments at a starting price of AED 300,000 (USD 82,000) and 3–6 bedroom villas from a minimum of AED 1,300,000 (USD 354,000).

International City

International City is in great demand among buyers of investment real estate, as it generates a stable income at a consistent level of 8.5% per annum. The lifestyle of a multicultural community is the main advantage of International City, which also retains an affordable price range for the purchase of real estate. The area is located near Dubai Safari Park and Academic City. Investors are offered 1–3 bedroom apartments at a price of AED 270,000 (USD 73,510) and 3-bedroom villas at a cost of AED 1,500,000 (USD 408,400). Studios, townhouses, land plots and entire buildings are also available to purchase in the area.

Jumeirah

The purchase of real estate in the prestigious Jumeirah area has become available to foreign citizens relatively recently. Previously, only UAE locals and GCC citizens could buy real estate here. Popular projects such as La Mer, Jumeirah Bay Islands and City Walk, are located here. Jumeirah is a popular place to rent premium apartments as Jumeirah Beach and Kite Beach have also brought great popularity to the district. Investors are offered exclusive luxury real estate, which includes 1–6 bedroom apartments priced from AED 1,200,000 (USD 327,000) and 3–7 bedroom villas priced from AED 3,200,000 (USD 871,000).

Jumeirah Golf Estates

Jumeirah Golf Estates is an area that offers excellent residences located around the world-famous golf courses that host the DP World Tour – Fire and Earth Championships. The area is considered one of the most beautiful and sought-after places to live in the emirate. Jumeirah Golf Estates stretches along the Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311). Residential real estate here includes a unique complex of premium apartments, townhouses and villas. The minimum cost of a 1-bedroom apartment is AED 570,000 (USD 155,200), and the initial cost of a 4-bedroom luxury villa is AED 5,650,000 (USD 1,550,000). The price for a 2-bedroom townhouse for sale is AED 1,939,000 (USD 528,000).

Jumeirah Village Circle

The developing Freehold community offers residents a combination of urban life and rural Dubai. Popular among investors, the area is located near Internet City, JLT, Dubai Marina and Media City. Nakheel is the developer of the large selection of apartments and villas on offer, which are surrounded by landscaped gardens. The initial cost of a 1-bedroom residence is AED 335,000 (USD 91,000), while a 3-bedroom villa can be purchased at an initial price of AED 1,300,000 (USD 354,000).

Jumeirah Village Triangle

Jumeirah Village Triangle has a strategic location between the highways of Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311) and Al Khail Road (E44), which allows easy access to other central areas of Dubai. The gated community consists of 9 districts that offer more than 5,000 housing options, including apartments, villas and townhouses. The minimum investment amount ifor purchasing a 1-bedroom apartment will be AED 337,000 (USD 91,750) and the initial cost of a 3-bedroom villa is AED 2,250,000 (USD 613,000).

Meydan City

Meydan City is an innovative community with a convenient location along the Ras Al Khor Road and Dubai Al Ain Road. The largest horse racing festival and the Football World Cup are held here every year. Residential real estate includes luxury apartments, townhouses and villas for a premium lifestyle. The minimum cost of a 1-bedroom apartment constitutes AED 525,000 (USD 143,000), while the price for a 2-bedroom residence starts from AED 1,800,000 (USD 490,100).

MBR City

MBR City district offers modern amenities, outdoor attractions, shopping malls and plenty of green gardens. At the moment, the community is still under construction, so the high return on investment in real estate in the area will only increase once it is completed. The starting price for the purchase of apartments is AED 714,000 (USD 194,000) and the cost of a 2-bedroom villa starts from AED 1,880,000 (USD 512,000).

Motor City

Motor City was developed in the theme of motorsports by Union Properties. The community has its own city circuit, an abundance of green spaces and all the necessary amenities for a comfortable life. Investors are offered apartments, villas and commercial premises for sale and to rent. The starting price of a 1-bedroom apartment is AED 550,000 (USD 150,000). Villas have a higher cost, with the minimum price of a 3-bedroom villa constituting AED 2,795,000 (USD 761,000).

Mudon

Mudon is a gated community near DAMAC Hills. There are both ready-made and under construction real estate units available to purchase here. The area consists of several communities that offer an extensive selection of real estate, including apartments, townhouses and villas. The price for a 1-bedroom apartment in the Mudon Views residential complex starts from AED 650,000 (USD 177,000) while the minimum cost of a 3-bedroom villa in the Arabella community is AED 1,550,000 (USD 422,000).

Palm Jumeirah

Palm Jumeirah is a large-scale project in the form of a man-made island which is developed by Nakheel PJSC. There is a huge amount of luxury real estate here, including apartments, penthouses, townhouses, duplexes and villas. A 1-bedroom residence on the Palm costs a minimum of AED 1,100,000 (USD 300,000), whilst the starting price of luxury villas with 4–5 bedrooms starts from AED 5,100,000 (USD 1,390,000).

Town Square

Town Square is located along the highway of Al Qudra Road (D63) and is being developed by Nshama Group. At the moment, the community is under construction but once completed, the project will provide residents with a premium lifestyle and excellent residential units. Parks, swimming pools, gyms and gardens will be located on the territory of the residential complex. The property units in this complex will be represented by apartments, townhouses and villas. A 1-bedroom apartment costs from AED 430,000 (USD 117,100) and the starting price for a 3-bedroom villa is AED 1,500,000 (USD 408,400).

The best Freehold areas for buying villas

In this section we have prepared a list of areas that offer exclusive Freehold villas for sale.

Arabian Ranches

This is an autonomous gated golf community designed and built by Emaar Properties. The district consists of 3 phases of development: Arabian Ranches I, II, III and was also one of the first suburban areas in Dubai, so the area is well established. Investors are offered more than 4,000 luxury residences with architecture that combines a Mediterranean and Arab style design. Here you can find premium villas and townhouses, in addition to other amenities including lakes, parks and multifunctional recreation areas. Arabian Ranches is a family-oriented community and some villas have their own pools and gardens. The neighbourhood includes 20 thematic complexes, and Arabian Ranches II is divided into sub-communities such as Camelia, Casa, Rasha, Samara, Reem, Lila, Rosa, Yasmin, Palma and Azalea. At the beginning of 2019, the third phase of the Arabian Ranches development was launched. A feature of the area is the presence of a lazy river, as well as a variety of outdoor activities. This phase of the project includes communities such as Caya, Sun, June, Joy, Bliss, Ruba and Spring. The minimum cost of villas for sale in Arabian Ranches is AED 1,600,000 (USD 436,000).

Emirates Hills

This is a gated premium-level community from Emaar Properties. The Lakes, The Springs and Meadows are all located nearby. Emirates Hills is one of the first free property zones in Dubai, allowing foreigners to purchase housing in Dubai and have 100% ownership rights. In addition, this area is considered the most fashionable residential community and attracts wealthy investors from all over the world. The cost of a 3-bedroom villa starts from AED 8,300,000 (USD 2,260,000).

Jumeirah Islands

The area consists of 50 artificial islands and was developed by Nakheel. Jumeirah Islands is located between Jumeirah Park and the Emirates Living Complex. The complex includes 4-bedroom townhouses and 4-6 bedroom luxury villas with the minimum cost required to purchase a 3-bedroom villa in Jumeirah Islands amounting to AED 3,350,000 (USD 912,000).

Jumeirah Park

Jumeirah Park is a gated community with eco-friendly parks, again by the developer, Nakheel Properties. The complex has a strategic location near Jumeirah Lake Towers (JLT), Jumeirah Islands and The Meadows. The neighbourhood offers more than 2,000 villas for rent and sale with the starting price of a 3-bedroom villa is AED 3,250,0\00 (USD 885,000).

Reem

The developer of the district is the biggest developer in the emirate – Emaar Properties. The project is located on the south side of Emirates Road (E611) opposite Town Square Dubai on Al Qudra Road. Reem is one of the first closed communities with its own central park, playgrounds and sports grounds. Investors are offered villas and townhouses with 3 and 4 bedrooms in either Mediterranean or Arabic style concepts. The infrastructure is very well established in the area as there are shops, restaurants and a cinema in the community. The starting price for the purchase of a villa here is AED 1,690,000 (USD 460,000).

Meadows

Meadows is a green community from Emaar Properties, which is located away from the noise of the city, but at the same time close to mainland areas and attractions. It is also one of the most popular areas in Dubai for buying villas with free ownership. The minimum cost of a 3-bedroom villa in this development is AED 3,950,000 (USD 1,075,000).

The Villa

The Villa is one of the best areas with the right to buy freehold property. Nakheel PJSC is a developer and the neighbourhood offers 1,262 villas with 3–7 bedrooms, which are built-in 13 different architectural styles, as well as 163 land plots for development. The starting price for a 3-bedroom villa in this well-developed and quiet district is AED 2,800,000 (USD 762,000).

Tilal Al Ghaf

This is a mixed-use community from the Majid Al Futtaim developer. The area is located between Downtown Dubai and Al Maktoum International Airport. At the moment, Tilal Al Ghaf is at the stage of active development and according to the master plan, a lagoon surrounded by 1,312 ft of open beach will be located at the center of the project. Tilal Al Ghaf is very popular among investors and end buyers. For example, 322 villas in the 3rd phase of construction were sold in 48 hours after the launch in September 2020. At the moment, residential properties in the Harmony, Elan, Serenity and Aura complexes are for sale. The starting price for a 4-bedroom villa here is AED 6,500,000 (USD 1,770,000).

Summary

<ol><li>Freehold ownership allows the owner of the property 100% rights to own the property, including resale, lease, registration of donation or inheritance.</li><li>All areas with the right to purchase Freehold property are approved by the Government of Dubai. The trend of expansion of freehold zones has been observed recently. This is done in order to attract even more foreign investment.</li><li>Dubai has a large number of Freehold zones, each of which provides favorable offers and terms for the purchase of apartments, villas or both types of real estate.</li><li>It is recommended to contact a specialized agency that understands the intricacies of investing in property in Dubai in order to make a legally competent decision and the most profitable purchase of real estate in the emirate.</li></ol>