The Dubai Land Department (DLD) has signed a memorandum of cooperation with Masdar City, granting companies operating within its free zones the right to purchase property in designated freehold areas across Dubai.
This landmark agreement allows Masdar City-licensed businesses—previously limited in their ability to own property within the emirate—to now invest directly in Dubai’s real estate market. The initiative aligns with Dubai’s Real Estate Strategy 2033 and the broader Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which both aim to diversify investment sources and enhance long-term economic sustainability.
“Dubai Land Department signed a memorandum of cooperation with Masdar City, aiming to enable companies and establishments operating in the free zones under Masdar City to own land plots and properties under the freehold ownership system in Dubai, within a clear and comprehensive regulatory framework.”
the authority announced. This move opens the door for a broader class of investors, especially in the green technology and innovation sectors, to establish a physical presence in Dubai.
Masdar City has signed a strategic agreement with @Land_Department to enable Free Zone companies registered in Masdar City to own freehold properties in Dubai.
A step forward for investment, innovation, and national economic integration. pic.twitter.com/kQ10hIiBSn
— Masdar City (@MasdarCity) July 24, 2025
Under the new framework, qualified businesses will benefit from:
- Clear eligibility and legal guidelines for ownership
- Faster digital registration processes
- Direct coordination between DLD and Masdar City authorities
- End-to-end support for documentation and compliance
The signing ceremony, attended by officials from both entities, took place in Dubai and formalized a vision to integrate digital tools and transparent systems in property acquisition. A new digital platform will enable online applications, real-time tracking, and document verification—an important step toward transparency and ease-of-business.
The agreement is seen as a gateway to wider reforms. Officials suggest this may be a precursor to future collaborations with other UAE free zones, setting a national benchmark for inclusive property ownership policies.
Investors and businesses based in Masdar City—particularly those in sustainability, research, and emerging tech—are expected to benefit the most from this regulatory shift. Real estate experts believe it could attract more foreign direct investment into Dubai’s property market and accelerate cross-emirate business expansion.
The announcement also enhances Dubai’s standing in the global property landscape, offering new flexibility to companies that once had to rely on leasing structures. Stakeholders have praised the timing of the update, with many companies already planning expansion into Dubai as part of their long-term growth strategy.
Further details on rollout timelines, registration procedures, and qualifying criteria are expected in the coming months. The Dubai Land Department encourages interested businesses to stay informed through its digital portal and official channels.
