Leasehold vs Freehold Dubai: How to convert leasehold property to freehold in Dubai

You’re scrolling through listings. Maybe you’ve even booked a viewing. And then, somewhere between the asking price and the floor plan, the question hits: Wait… who pays the agent commission in Dubai?

It’s a fair question - and not a small one. Because beyond the excitement of finding the right place, there are numbers that don’t always show up upfront. That extra 2% here, or 5% there - it matters. Especially if no one told you it was coming.

In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at who pays the agent commission, how the process works across different kinds of transactions, and what RERA rules for commission say, not just what people assume. Whether you're buying, renting, or selling, understanding how Dubai real estate agents charge (and who’s expected to pay them) can save you time, confusion, and unexpected costs.

Because knowing what to expect doesn’t just help you budget - it gives you the confidence to move forward on your terms.

What Is Agent Commission in Dubai?

It’s the kind of thing that usually comes up after the fact.

You’re talking to an agent. You’ve seen a few places. Maybe one of them feels right. And then someone mentions the commission, as if you were supposed to know already.

In Dubai, the numbers aren’t a secret. If you’re buying, the standard is 2% of the sale price. If you’re renting, it’s usually 5% of the annual rent. That part’s fairly settled. But what’s less clear, at least at first, is who pays agent commission in Dubai, and why it isn’t always the same answer.

Sometimes it’s the buyer. Sometimes it’s the tenant. Sometimes it’s the seller or the landlord, and in off-plan deals, it’s almost always the developer. But unless that conversation happens early, it can lead to awkward moments later.

Dubai real estate agents work fast. They move between listings, clients, handovers, and signatures. It’s easy for things to get assumed, especially when everyone’s in a rush. But commission is one of those things worth slowing down for. Not just to ask how much - but to ask who, when, and why.

The rules? RERA has them in place. Clear enough, if you know where to look. But the real clarity comes from the people you’re dealing with - and whether they’re willing to have the conversation before the numbers show up on paper.

Dubai Real Estate Agents: Who Pays What?

It depends on who you are and what kind of deal you’re making.

If you’re buying a home on the secondary market - meaning not brand new, not from a developer - the answer is simple: you pay the agent commission. It’s usually 2% of the purchase price, plus VAT. That’s the norm. The seller doesn’t usually cover it, unless you’ve agreed on something different upfront.

If you’re renting, it works the same way. You, the tenant, pay 5% of the annual rent. That’s what most Dubai real estate agents will expect - and it’s often due before you even get the keys.

Sellers? They only pay a commission if they’ve signed an exclusive agreement with the agent. If not, the buyer’s side covers it.

And off-plan? That’s the one exception where buyers get a break. In those cases, it’s the developer who pays. Agents still earn a commission - sometimes more than usual - but it doesn’t come out of your pocket.

So when people ask, Who pays the agent commission in Dubai?, the real answer is: it depends on what you’re doing. But most of the time, if you’re the one getting the keys, you’re also the one settling the fee.

A Look at RERA Rules for Commission

Dubai doesn’t just let the market run wild. There’s a framework, and at the heart of it is RERA, the Real Estate Regulatory Agency.

RERA sets the tone for how agents operate. It doesn’t fix commission rates by law, but it does set expectations: 2% is standard on sales, 5% on rentals, and anything beyond that needs to be agreed on in writing. No surprises. No backroom deals.

More importantly, RERA rules for commission say one thing loud and clear: whatever is agreed, it has to be transparent. That means if there’s a fee involved, it should be clear who’s paying it, how much it is, and when it’s due. Verbal agreements don’t count. Proper documentation does.

Some buyers assume the seller will cover it. Some tenants expect the landlord to pitch in. But unless it’s written down - and signed by both sides - that’s not how it works. And that’s why so many people still find themselves asking, Who pays agent commission in Dubai? - even after the deal is nearly done.

The answer, under RERA, is simple: whoever agrees to pay it, on paper, is the one responsible. That’s it. So, the safest move? Ask early. Confirm in writing. And don’t let that part of the conversation drift to the end.

How These Rules Apply in Real Transactions

It’s one thing to read the rules - it’s another to see how they play out.

In most resale deals, the buyer pays the commission. You find a place, agree on a price, and pay your agent 2% once the paperwork starts moving. That’s the rhythm most Dubai real estate agents are used to. No confusion, no need to ask twice - unless someone’s trying to do things differently.

With rentals, it’s similar. The tenant pays 5% of the annual rent, usually up front, and it’s handled before the handover. The landlord doesn’t cover it - not unless you’ve agreed on something unusual, which rarely happens in practice.

Where it shifts is in off-plan. If you're buying directly from a developer, especially during a launch, you probably won’t pay any commission at all. The agent still gets paid, sometimes even more than 2%, but the cost comes from the developer’s side, not yours.

And now and then, you’ll see a seller offer to cover the commission just to close the deal faster. It’s rare, but it happens. That’s why people keep asking: who pays agent commission in Dubai - not because the answer’s unclear, but because there are just enough exceptions to keep everyone guessing.

So the real answer? Look at the deal in front of you. Then look at the agreement. That’s where the truth lives.

Why Understanding Commission Matters

Most people don’t ask about the commission until it’s too late. Not because they’re careless - just because it’s one of those details that feels small until it suddenly isn’t.

If you’re buying, that 2% can catch you off guard. Maybe you were focused on the price, the payment plan, and the transfer fee. Then the agent reminds you, and you realise you’re a bit short. Not a disaster, but enough to make things tight. It’s the kind of moment that could’ve been avoided with one honest conversation early on.

If you’re renting, it’s the same story. That 5% shows up right before you get the keys. You've already paid the deposit, maybe a few rent cheques. Now there’s another cheque to write - and no one mentioned it before.

For sellers or landlords, it’s less about the money and more about the understanding. If your agent’s putting in time - arranging viewings, taking calls, managing paperwork - they’ll want to know how they’re getting paid. And if you’re expecting the buyer or tenant to handle it, that has to be clear from the start.

That’s why the question - who pays agent commission in Dubai - keeps coming up. Not because the rules aren’t there. But because people assume. They skip the talk. And then they’re surprised when the numbers hit the table.

Clarity helps. And a good agent won’t wait for you to ask - they’ll bring it up first.

About Mada Properties

We’ve been in enough conversations to know that most people don’t just want a house - they want someone who’ll tell them the truth.

At Mada, that’s where we start. Whether you’re buying, selling, or just trying to understand what it all means, we don’t rush the conversation. We ask the questions that usually get skipped. We bring up the details others wait to mention. And we’ll always tell you what we see - even if it costs us the deal.

That includes things like commission. We’ll explain exactly how it works, who’s expected to pay it, and why. If it’s negotiable, we’ll tell you now. If it’s not, we’ll make sure you’re ready for it. No last-minute surprises. No awkward calls at the finish line.

We don’t think real estate in Dubai has to feel like a hustle. It can feel like someone’s actually on your side. And that’s the space we try to hold - quietly, consistently, deal after deal.

Conclusion

Commission isn’t the most exciting part of buying or renting a home in Dubai, but it’s one of the things worth clarifying early.

The rules are there. The market has its habits. But the real answer to who pays agent commission in Dubai depends on the deal you’re making, and the people you’re making it with.

Ask early. Put it in writing. And work with someone who tells you the truth before you have to ask for it.

That’s usually all it takes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Who pays the agent commission in Dubai?

Most of the time, the buyer or tenant pays. In off-plan sales, it’s usually the developer.

Can the commission be split between both parties?

It can - but only if both sides agree in writing. Otherwise, it follows the usual pattern.

What are the standard commission rates in Dubai?

2% on sales, 5% on rentals - both plus VAT. Those are the market norms.

What do the RERA rules for commission say?

RERA doesn’t fix the rates, but it requires full transparency. The fee, the payer, and the terms should all be documented clearly.

Do Dubai real estate agents charge the same for every deal?

Not always. Some fees are negotiable - others aren’t. It depends on the property and the agent.

When is the commission usually paid?

Right after signing - before transfer or handover. It’s usually one of the last steps.

If you’ve been looking at the Dubai real estate market for more than five minutes, you’ve probably come across the phrase: Dubai freehold property.

It shows up on brochures, websites, and phone calls - usually as a selling point. But what does it mean?

Can you buy freehold property in Dubai as a foreigner?

Is it a lease? A lifetime right? Or full legal ownership?

The answer matters - especially if you're putting down serious money, planning for the long term, or hoping to build something more permanent in the UAE.

In this guide, we’ll unpack exactly what freehold property in the UAE is, how it works in practice, and why it’s become one of the strongest pillars of Dubai’s real estate success.

Whether you're buying to live, invest, or simply understand your rights, you're in the right place.

What Is Freehold Property?

Let’s strip it down.

Freehold property in the UAE means full ownership. Not just of the walls or the apartment, but of the land it sits on, the title deed, and the legal rights that come with it. It’s yours. No expiry, no renewal, no rent paid to a master developer.

That’s what separates it from leasehold.

Leasehold is long-term use - 30, 50, even 99 years - but at the end, the ownership reverts. With Dubai freehold property, there is no end date. You can sell it, lease it, pass it on, or live in it forever.

The concept became law in 2002, when Dubai opened certain zones to foreign investors under true freehold ownership. It was a bold move - and it worked.

Today, Dubai property freehold ownership is what draws in buyers from every corner of the world, looking for something solid in a city that’s still building upward.

Dubai’s Freehold Zones | Where Can You Buy?

One of the reasons Dubai freehold property has become so attractive is the range of areas available to buyers, especially non-residents.

Unlike some cities where foreign ownership is restricted or symbolic, freehold property in the UAE is real, enforceable, and geographically broad.

Dubai has designated multiple zones where freehold ownership is allowed for international buyers. These include:

• Downtown Dubai – For those seeking the city’s heartbeat.
• Dubai Marina – Waterfront living with skyline views.
• Business Bay – A hybrid of work and high-rise luxury.
• Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC) – One of Dubai’s fastest-growing residential hubs.
• Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Hills, Arabian Ranches, and more.

Each area offers something different - from family villas to high-rise apartments, from quiet communities to lifestyle destinations.

If you’re looking into emerging residential zones, JVC stands out for its value and momentum. Projects like Binghatti Phantom represent exactly the kind of freehold opportunities that combine affordability, design, and long-term potential.

And that’s the real power of Dubai property freehold ownership - it’s not just where you can live, it’s where you can belong.

Explore More: Freehold Areas in Dubai

Dubai Property Freehold Ownership | What You Own?

When you buy a Dubai freehold property, you're not just getting an apartment or villa - you're getting the title deed in your name, registered with the Dubai Land Department. That deed isn’t symbolic. It’s legal, transferable, and permanent.

Dubai property freehold ownership means you own the unit, the land it sits on (if applicable), and the full right to sell, lease, gift, or pass on the property as inheritance, without local sponsorship or time limits.

It’s a concept rooted in transparency. You can register it under your name as an individual or under a company if structured properly.

And unlike some leasehold structures in other cities, there’s no annual ground rent or expiry clock ticking in the background.

You own it.

Fully.

And in a place like Dubai - where real estate is more than a roof - that kind of ownership matters.

Who Can Buy Freehold Property in Dubai?

So - can you buy freehold property in Dubai if you’re not a resident?

Yes. That’s exactly what Dubai intended when it opened up its market to global buyers.

Anyone - whether a UAE resident, foreign investor, or even someone living on the other side of the world - can legally purchase Dubai freehold property in designated zones. There’s no citizenship requirement. No need to hold a visa.

You don’t even need to be in the country when the deal is signed - most transactions can be handled remotely through power of attorney.

Individuals can buy in their own name, and companies - whether local or foreign - can also hold property, depending on the structure and approval. Many investors choose to buy under an offshore or UAE-based company for legal or tax purposes.

That openness is part of what makes freehold property in the UAE so unique. It’s not just about the product - it’s about access. Real, direct, and protected by law.

Process | How to Buy Freehold Property in Dubai?

So - how do you actually go from browsing to holding the title?

Buying a Dubai freehold property isn’t some complicated maze. But it’s not something you want to figure out halfway through, either.

Here’s how it usually unfolds.

You find a place that makes sense - for your budget, your reason, your rhythm.

You agree on the price.

You sign a simple agreement - usually called an MOU - and put down a deposit.

Then comes the paperwork. Not piles of it. Just enough to prove who you are and that the funds are clean.

Your broker handles most of it. A good one will walk you through without rushing or skipping.

After that, everything moves through the Dubai Land Department.

You pay the government fee. They issue the title deed. And just like that - it’s yours.

If you’ve been asking whether you can buy freehold property in Dubai without being here, without speaking Arabic, without second-guessing every step… the answer is yes.

You just need someone who knows the system and respects your pace.

Benefits of Freehold Ownership

There’s a kind of peace that comes with knowing what you own is yours.

No expiry dates. No renewals. No fine print waiting to surprise you years later.

That’s the quiet power of Dubai freehold property - ownership that feels solid, simple, and not tied to anyone else’s timeline but your own.

For many people, that means flexibility. You can live in the home, rent it out, sell it, or hold it long-term, and you don’t need permission to do any of that.

For others, it’s about security. Owning in a city like Dubai, where the rules are clear and the growth is visible, doesn’t just feel like a smart investment - it feels safe.

Projects like Diamondz by Danube reflect this shift, designed for people who don’t just want a place to stay, but a stake in the city itself.

And that’s what freehold property in the UAE offers.

Not hype.

Just quiet confidence - backed by law, and built to last.

Risks and Considerations

Let’s be honest - Dubai freehold property isn’t a magic ticket.

It’s ownership, yes. But ownership comes with decisions.

Some freehold zones are well-developed, easy to rent, and easy to resell. Others… not quite there yet. You might need time. Or patience. Or both.

Markets shift.

Dubai’s been strong, fast, and resilient - but no market moves in a straight line. If you’re thinking short-term gains, you’ll need to be sharper with timing.

Then there’s the developer.

Buying off-plan? Ask hard questions. Don’t just look at brochures - look at what they’ve delivered before.

And finally, owning means managing. Service fees, upkeep, maybe tenants. It’s not complicated - but it’s not passive either.

So no, there’s nothing risky about freehold property in the UAE itself.

But there is a risk in not knowing what you’re getting into. And that’s why smart buyers take their time - and ask better questions.

About Mada Properties

Mada Properties isn’t just another real estate name in Dubai - it’s a team that listens first.

We focus on clarity, not pressure.

We help you compare, not just choose.

And we stay with you, from your first question to your final signature.

Whether you’re looking for a place to live, a property to invest in, or simply a clearer way to understand the Dubai market, we’re here for that.

Because good property decisions don’t start with listings.

They start with people who care.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I buy freehold property in Dubai as a foreigner?

Yes. Foreigners can buy freehold property in designated areas without needing residency or a sponsor.

2. What does freehold mean in Dubai real estate?

It means full ownership - the unit, the land (if applicable), and the right to sell, rent, or inherit it.

3. Is freehold property better than leasehold in Dubai?

If you want long-term control with no expiry, yes - freehold is more flexible and secure.

4. Are there any risks to buying freehold in Dubai?

Only if you don’t do your homework. Choose the right location, developer, and advisor - and you’ll be fine.

Not long ago, the idea of owning real estate in Dubai as a foreigner was limited, complicated, or just off the table entirely. Then came the freehold zones. Today, freehold areas in Dubai have opened the market to the world, offering full ownership, long-term control, and access to some of the city's most desirable neighborhoods.

Whether you're an expat looking to put down roots, or an international investor exploring freehold property in Dubai for foreigners, knowing where - and why - to buy is everything. But it’s not just about location. It’s about understanding how the market is structured, what you’re getting, and how these zones differ from the rest.

In this guide, we’ll walk through it all: a complete list of freehold areas in Dubai, a look at how these districts are spread across the city, and what types of homes and investments they offer. If you've been asking whether a freehold property is the right move, this is where the answer begins.

What Are Freehold Areas in Dubai?

Before we get into locations and listings, let’s pause for a second on the term itself. What does “freehold” really mean in Dubai?

Simply put, freehold areas in Dubai are zones where foreign nationals, whether residents or overseas buyers, are allowed to purchase property with full ownership rights. That includes the land beneath the property and the legal freedom to sell, lease, or inherit it as you choose.

It wasn’t always this way. In 2002, Dubai became the first emirate in the UAE to introduce freehold property in Dubai for foreigners, and the market hasn’t looked back since. What started with a few flagship zones like Palm Jumeirah and Dubai Marina has expanded into a wide and growing network of investment-ready neighborhoods.

For anyone unfamiliar with UAE property law, the idea of full foreign ownership might seem like a loophole - but here, it’s the standard. If you’re buying in a freehold zone, your name goes on the title deed. No time limits. No middlemen. No special permissions.

List of Freehold Areas in Dubai

There’s no shortage of choice when it comes to freehold areas in Dubai, but the real challenge is knowing which one suits you. Some are sleek and central. Others are suburban and family-friendly. Some feel like a quiet escape, others like a business hub that never sleeps.

Here’s a curated list of freehold areas in Dubai, grouped by vibe, more than just location:

Urban & Business Districts

• Downtown Dubai
• Business Bay
• Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC)

These are built for energy. High-rises, skyline views, walkable streets, and an unmistakable city feel.

Waterfront & Lifestyle Zones

• Dubai Marina
• Palm Jumeirah
• Port Rashid
• Bluewaters Island
• Jumeirah Bay Island

Perfect if sea views and resort-style living matter more than a five-minute commute.

Community-Oriented Suburbs

• Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC)
• Arabian Ranches
• The Springs
• Dubai Hills Estate
• Town Square Dubai

More space. More greenery. Schools, parks, and room to grow.

Emerging Freehold Locations

• Dubai South
• Al Furjan
• MBR City
• Dubai Creek Harbour

These are still evolving, which often means better prices and more upside over time.

Whether you're buying to live or looking for long-term growth, the variety within this list of freehold areas in Dubai is what makes the market so globally appealing.

Freehold Areas in Dubai Map | Understanding the Layout

When people ask for freehold areas in Dubai map, what they want isn’t just lines on a screen.

They want to know:

Where would I want to live?

What’s close to work, or water, or something that makes the day feel a little easier?

Most freehold areas in Dubai fall into three simple zones - not legal zones, but lifestyle ones.

There’s the inner circle: Business Bay, Downtown, DIFC. These are the heartbeats - fast-paced, vertical, five minutes from everything.

Then there’s the coastline: Marina, Palm, Port Rashid. Places where the skyline gives way to sea views, and evenings stretch a little longer.

And outside that, there’s space: JVC, Dubai Hills, Al Furjan. Communities built for families, morning routines, and homes with a little breathing room.

The map matters.

But what matters more is how it feels to be in each place - and that’s something no PDF can show you.

Why Foreigners Choose Freehold Properties in Dubai

Ask most foreign buyers what drew them to Dubai, and the answers usually sound the same: freedom, opportunity, something different.

Then they discover freehold property in Dubai for foreigners - and everything changes.

It’s not just that you can buy.

It’s that you can own. Fully.

Name on the title deed. No time cap. No local sponsor. No strange conditions buried in the fine print.

That’s rare. And in a city like Dubai, where growth is real, fast, and planned, it means your investment isn’t just legal, it’s protected.

Freehold areas in Dubai also come with something less obvious: choice. Not just where to live, but how. You want a studio to rent out? A villa to raise your kids in? A penthouse for long weekends in the sun? It’s all here, and it’s all yours to decide.

That kind of ownership - the legal kind, and the emotional kind - is why so many people don’t just invest in Dubai.

They stay.

Freehold Properties in Dubai for Sale | What You Can Expect?

There’s no shortage of property in Dubai.

The question is: What kind of life are you buying into?

In most freehold areas in Dubai, the market splits into three experiences, not just three property types.

Apartments offer the pulse of the city. You’re up high, close in, minutes from your next meeting or night out.

Villas give you quiet space to build a life that doesn’t need to prove itself.

And off-plan units? That’s the long game. You’re buying into a vision, not just a floor plan.

For some, the center of it all feels right.

Bayz 101 in Business Bay fits that mindset: vertical, modern, unapologetically urban.

Others want to hear the water at night.

Emaar Ocean Point at Port Rashid offers something else entirely - sea air, soft light, and the kind of pace that reminds you why you moved in the first place.

Freehold properties in Dubai for sale aren’t just listings.

They’re answers to personal questions: What matters to you now?

And what will still matter ten years from today?

How to Choose the Right Freehold Area for You

No one can tell you where to live. Not really.

Because buying in Dubai isn’t just about square footage or ROI - it’s about rhythm. Yours.

Start with the basics.

If you hate traffic, love the buzz, and want a skyline outside your window, central zones like Downtown or Business Bay make sense.

If you’re thinking of schools, dogs, dinner on the patio - head outwards. JVC, Dubai Hills, or Arabian Ranches might speak your language.

And if you just want peace by the water, look no further than Mina Rashid or the Marina.

The best part? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to freehold areas in Dubai.

You don’t have to settle. You just have to choose.

Things to Know Before You Buy

Before you sign anything, it helps to slow down.

Here are a few things worth knowing before buying in freehold areas in Dubai:

• Not all “freehold” areas are equal.

Some come fully developed with schools, roads, and malls. Others are still growing. Check what’s around the property - not just inside it.

• Registration is digital now.

Thanks to Dubai REST and the Dubai Land Department, title deeds and ownership transfers are paperless, fast, and transparent.

• You don’t need a residency visa to buy.

But depending on the value of your property, you might qualify for one. It’s not automatic, but it’s possible.

• Payment plans vary widely.

Especially with off-plan units. Some developers offer extended installments, owhile thers ask for big upfront payments. Read. Everything.

• Ask questions - even the obvious ones.

You’re not expected to know everything. But you are expected to protect your future.

Buying property in Dubai isn’t hard.

But doing it right? That takes time, a little patience, and the right guidance.

About Mada Properties

At Mada Properties, we don’t just list homes - we listen.

To your questions, your worries, your “what ifs.”

Because we know that buying property in a city like Dubai isn’t just a financial decision. It’s a life one.

Our team works across every corner of the market - from freehold areas in Dubai to off-plan launches, waterfront escapes to city towers.

But what we do is help people feel ready.

Ready to choose.

Ready to move.

Ready to belong.

Whether you’re buying your first apartment or building a future one home at a time - we’re here.

Not just with listings. But with answers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can foreigners buy property in freehold areas in Dubai?

• Yes - foreigners can fully own property and land in designated freehold zones.

2. What’s the difference between leasehold and freehold property?

• Freehold means full ownership. Leasehold means you rent the property for a fixed term (usually 99 years).

3. Are freehold areas only in central Dubai?

• No - they’re spread across the city, from Downtown to suburbs like JVC and Dubai Hills.

4. Do I need to live in Dubai to buy in a freehold area?

• Not at all. You can buy from abroad and manage your property remotely.