UAE: Can expats own land in Dubai? – information

Readers ask: What laws do I need to know before investing in property?

question: I wish to do some investment in Dubai. Can expatriates or foreigners own land in Dubai? Can you explain the laws regarding land ownership for expatriates?

reply: Based on your query, since you intend to invest in Dubai by purchasing a plot of land, Law No. 7 of 2006 on the Registration of Real Estate in the Emirate of Dubai (“Dubai Real Estate Registration Law”) and No. 3 of 2006 Decision Non-UAE Nationals in the Emirate of Dubai The Real Property Ownership Area of ​​2019 and its subsequent amendments (Dubai Laws Relating to the Real Property Ownership Area for Non-UAE Nationals) apply.

It is worth noting that expatriates who are not UAE nationals or nationals of any GCC country may own plots or properties in certain areas as determined by His Highness the Ruler of Dubai. This is in line with Article 4 of the Dubai Real Estate Registration Law, which states: “The right to own real property in the emirate is limited to UAE nationals, nationals of GCC countries, companies wholly owned by such nationals, and public joint stock companies. UAE nationals are entitled to the following rights within the relevant areas determined by the Ruler:

a.Freehold real estate with no time limit; and

b. Right to use or lease real estate for up to 99 years. “

In addition, the laws of Dubai relating to areas where non-UAE nationals have ownership of immovable properties have been issued by His Highness the Ruler of Dubai from time to time, identifying and demarcating specific areas in the Emirate of Dubai where non-UAE nationals shall own (i) freehold title to immovable properties; ( ii) 99 years usufruct (construction right) or leasehold of real estate.

As stated in the above laws, as an expatriate, you are entitled to own land/property in certain areas of Dubai.

For more instructions on buying a plot or property in Dubai, you can contact the Dubai Land Department.

Ashish Mehta is the founder and managing partner of Ashish Mehta & Associates. He is qualified to practice in Dubai, UK and India. Further information on his company is available at: www.amalawyers.com. Readers can email their questions to: news@khaleejtimes.com or send them to Legal View, Khaleej Times, PO Box 11243, Dubai.