Where can you buy residential land in Dubai?

• Leasehold Vs freehold
• Top areas
• FAQs

Those interested in investing in the Dubai real estate market have a variety of prospects, from stunning penthouses to gorgeous villas and cosy apartments. Although most property investors in Dubai look at ready-to-purchase or off-plan properties, some people crave uniqueness and individuality. For them, the top areas to buy residential land in Dubai are sound options.

If you plan to invest in plots to design custom-made homes or buy land in Dubai, you should read this before purchasing.

Leasehold Vs freehold residential plots in Dubai

Much like the ready real estate in the UAE, which is divided into freehold and leasehold properties, land plots also fall under freehold or leasehold categories. Freehold plots are units of land that you own, whereas leasehold plots are those with a tenure attached to them.

Freehold residential plots in Dubai are predictably more expensive than leasehold options. There are a number of areas where investors can buy freehold land in Dubai, including Dubai Hills Estate, Al Furjan, Palm Jumeirah and DAMAC Hills 2.

Top areas to buy residential land in Dubai

Investors or buyers can choose from multiple areas to buy residential land in Dubai.

• Please remember to check the ownership status of the land before purchase.
• Expats can only buy freehold residential land and plots in the designated freehold areas in Dubai.

Here is an overview of the popular areas, with their average sales prices according to square feet.

Jebel Ali

Starting off our list of areas to buy residential land in Dubai, Jebel Ali is a vibrant mixed-use development that’s divided into residential, commercial, industrial and recreational areas. Based on consumer interest given its extensive developments and commercial activity, Jebel Ali is the most popular area to buy land and plots in Dubai. One notable location to buy freehold residential plots in the area is Jebel Ali Hills.

• Land for sale in Jebel Ali costs an average of AED 260.23 per sq. ft.

Nad Al Sheba

With four sub-communities, Nad Al Sheba ranks second among popular areas to buy residential land in Dubai. Along with its mix of apartments and villas, the area has plots for sale in places, including Nad Al Sheba Gardens, Nad Al Sheba 1 and Nad Al Sheba 4.

• Residential land in the area is available at an average price of AED 1,116.47 per sq. ft.

DAMAC Hills 2

DAMAC Hills 2 can be another development on the list for anyone looking for affordable freehold residential land in Dubai. A project by DAMAC Properties, this is a self-contained community in Dubailand. Aside from houses and flats, the demand for residential plots here is also high. Investors can also opt for plots of land to construct villas or townhouses according to their preferences.

• The sales price of residential plots in DAMAC Hills 2 per sq. ft. averages at AED 407.80.

Al Barsha

Al Barsha is one of Dubai’s happening residential neighbourhoods. It is divided into four sub-communities: Al Barsha 1, Al Barsha 2, Al Barsha 3 and Al Barsha South. With schools, hospitals and the Mall of the Emirates nearby, Al Barsha offers a vibrant community experience.

• On average, residential land is available for sale in Al Barsha for AED 506.22 per square foot.

Please note: Only GCC citizens can purchase land in Al Barsha 1, 2 and 3.

Al Furjan

Al Furjan is a vibrant neighbourhood located between Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road and Sheikh Zayed Road. As one of the several freehold areas in Dubai, the gated community features property types like villas and apartments for sale and rent. Investors also have the option to acquire residential plots here.

• The average price per sq. ft. for residential plots for sale in Al Furjan is AED 670.91.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to buy land in Dubai?

If you plan to invest in freehold residential land in Dubai, ensure you understand the key steps involved in purchasing land.

First, choose a location. Non-GCC citizens, as stated earlier, are restricted to freehold areas. Then, you sign a sales agreement or memorandum of understanding (MoU) and buy the land plot.

Why buy land in Dubai?

Historically, land has proven to be more lucrative than ready properties when it comes to investment options, but this obviously depends on how much the locality you buy land in Dubai appreciates over the course of time. Land investment is often less expensive than purchasing a ready unit, although construction costs may offset the savings.

If you are considering buying residential land in Dubai as an expat, be sure to do all the right research.

For instance, you can learn what a commonhold property is in Dubai. Work with a trusted real estate agent and ensure you know all the stipulations of this type of investment opportunity in Dubai. You may also consider available commercial properties in Dubai.

For more real estate-related information, stay tuned to MyBayut.