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Freehold areas in Dubai: Best districts for foreigners in 2023

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Dubai is a thriving metropolis that has attracted a large number of foreign nationals from around the world. For those looking to purchase property in Dubai, the city offers a range of freehold areas that are popular among expatriates.

In this article, we will explore the concept of freehold in Dubai, answer some frequently asked questions, and highlight the best freehold areas for foreigners in 2023.

What is a freehold area in Dubai?

A freehold area in Dubai is a district where foreign nationals can purchase and own property on a freehold basis. This means that they have full ownership rights over the property and can sell, rent, or transfer it as they see fit. 

Thus, property buyers can be considered as investors and are entitled to 3 or 10-year resident visas depending on the property price, which is at least AED 750,000 (USD 204,000) and AED 2 million (USD 544,500) respectively.

Best freehold areas for foreigners in 2023

No doubt, we all have different tastes and needs that form the basis for making our choices. When it comes to buying real estate, especially abroad, everyone wants to take into account as many details as possible.

We tried to help you with this pleasant but at the same time challenging task and compiled a list of best freehold areas where a foreigner can buy a property. 

Dubai Marina

Dubai Marina is one of the most popular freehold areas in Dubai and is known for its luxury high-rise buildings, waterfront location, and bustling atmosphere. This area is popular among expatriates and offers a wide range of properties, from studios and one-bedroom apartments to spacious penthouses. Prices for apartments start from AED 670,000 (USD 182,500). As for villas, they start from AED 3.1 million (USD 844,000).

Jumeirah Lake Towers 

Jumeirah Lake Towers is another popular freehold area in Dubai that is known for its modern and sophisticated atmosphere. This area is home to a number of high-rise buildings that offer a range of properties, including apartments, penthouses, and townhouses. The price here starts from AED 365,000. 

Business Bay

Business Bay is a bustling commercial and residential district in Dubai that is home to a number of modern high-rise buildings. This area is popular among business professionals and offers a range of properties, including apartments, offices, and retail space. The price of apartments starts from AED 815,000 (USD 222,000).

Downtown Dubai

Downtown Dubai is a prime location in the heart of the city that is home to some of Dubai's most iconic landmarks, including the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Mall. This area offers a wide range of properties, from luxurious apartments and penthouses to spacious villas. A studio price starts from AED 933,000 (USD 254,000).

Emirates Hills

Emirates Hills is a developed gated community where villas are designed in the American Beverly Hills style. This place is a great choice for families as it has parks, barbecue areas, children’s playgrounds, swimming pools, etc. This community belongs to the top price segment with prices starting from AED 6 million (USD 1.6 million).

DAMAC Lagoons

DAMAC Lagoons is a new large-scale residential project located next to DAMAC Hills.The development will consist of 8 clusters inspired by beautiful cities of Mediterranean countries—Spain, Italy, France, Malta, Greece, and Morocco. The property will feature spacious townhouses and luxury standalone villas surrounded by crystal lagoons with white-sand beaches, waterfalls, caves, water parks, and promenades. You can select from 3 to 5 bedroom townhouses or individual villas with 4 to 7 bedrooms in the cluster that you like most. All the units have stylish interiors, premium fittings and appliances. The price starts from around AED 1.5 million (USD 405,000).

Dubai offers a range of freehold areas that are popular among expatriates and offer a wide range of properties to suit all needs and budgets. Whether you are looking for a modern high-rise apartment, a spacious townhouse, or a luxurious villa, there is something for everyone in Dubai's freehold areas.

FAQs

What is a freehold area in Dubai?

A freehold area in Dubai is a district where foreign nationals can purchase and own property on a freehold basis. This means that they have full ownership rights over the property and can sell, rent, or transfer it as they see fit.

How many freehold areas are there in Dubai?

There are several freehold areas in Dubai, including Dubai Marina, Jumeirah Lake Towers, Business Bay, and Downtown Dubai. These areas offer a wide range of properties, from apartments and townhouses to villas and luxurious penthouses.

Can you own a freehold in Dubai?

Yes, foreign nationals can own freehold property in Dubai, provided that they purchase in a designated freehold area. In these areas, foreign nationals can purchase and own property on a freehold basis, giving them full ownership rights.

Are flats freehold in Dubai?

Yes, flats can be freehold in Dubai, provided that they are located in a designated freehold area. In these areas, foreign nationals can purchase and own apartments on a freehold basis, giving them full ownership rights over the property.

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