Dubai: In a significant development aimed at expanding access to Dubai’s thriving real estate sector, the Dubai Land Department (DLD) has signed a Memorandum of Cooperation with Masdar City, enabling companies licensed within its free zones to own land and property under Dubai’s freehold ownership system.
This strategic move is in alignment with the Dubai Real Estate Strategy 2033 and the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which both focus on diversifying investment channels, promoting sustainability, and enhancing the emirate’s global competitiveness in real estate.
Empowering Free Zone Companies with Ownership Rights
Historically, many free zone entities in the UAE have faced limitations in directly owning property within Dubai. Under the new agreement, Masdar City free zone companies will now be eligible to purchase property within designated freehold zones in Dubai—subject to defined eligibility criteria and in compliance with a streamlined legal framework.
The agreement was formally signed by Majid Al Marri, CEO of the Real Estate Registration Sector at DLD, and Ahmed Baghoum, CEO of Masdar City, during an official ceremony in Dubai.
Enhanced Efficiency and Transparency
As part of the collaboration, both entities will jointly develop a simplified and transparent system to facilitate free zone property ownership, which will include:
- Direct coordination between DLD and the Masdar City Free Zone Authority
- Digitized processes for application, tracking, and document verification
- Streamlined registration procedures to ensure faster approvals
- Legal guidance and support for companies pursuing ownership
The objective is to provide a seamless and trustworthy experience for Masdar City businesses exploring property ownership opportunities in Dubai.
Implications for Innovation-Led Companies
The update is expected to benefit a range of innovation-driven businesses operating out of Masdar City—particularly those in the clean energy, sustainability, and technology sectors—by giving them a stronger foothold in Dubai’s real estate market and supporting their broader expansion goals.
Majid Al Marri commented,
“This initiative strengthens the integration of Dubai’s real estate ecosystem and reaffirms our commitment to fostering an inclusive and investor-centric environment.”
Ahmed Baghoum added,
“Our cooperation with DLD not only simplifies property registration for Masdar City businesses but also empowers companies seeking long-term growth within the UAE.”
Next Steps: A New Era for Free Zone Real Estate Access
The implementation of this framework will proceed in phases, with further details and operational rollout to be announced in the coming months. The collaboration between DLD and Masdar City could pave the way for similar partnerships with other UAE free zones, making Dubai’s property market more accessible and attractive to global investors and enterprises than ever before.
