More Free Zone Companies Can Now Own Property in Dubai’s Mainland

In a move that signals a transformative shift in the United Arab Emirates’ real estate and investment landscape, more free zone companies can now own property in Dubai’s mainland, following a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the Dubai Land Department (DLD) and Masdar City. The agreement marks a significant policy development, expanding property ownership rights for firms outside of Dubai’s mainland corporate registry and creating new investment opportunities for businesses operating within the UAE’s free zone ecosystem.

This change represents a formal extension of ownership rights to a wider class of companies. Previously, only a limited number of free zones—namely JAFZA (Jebel Ali Free Zone), DIFC (Dubai International Financial Centre), and RAKICC (Ras Al Khaimah International Corporate Centre)—were permitted to acquire property in Dubai’s mainland, and this was contingent on securing a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the DLD. These exceptions were narrowly defined and involved multiple layers of approval. The inclusion of Masdar City through this MoU sets a new precedent and could pave the way for further cross-emirate collaboration.

Masdar City, located in Abu Dhabi, is a renowned hub for sustainable innovation, clean technology, and research-driven enterprises. Its integration with Dubai’s property market represents a bridging of strategic economic visions between the two emirates. The agreement supports Dubai’s broader Real Estate Strategy 2033 and the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, both of which aim to double the size of Dubai’s economy, enhance foreign direct investment, and streamline the regulatory environment to attract globally competitive businesses.

Through this new framework, companies operating within Masdar City’s jurisdiction can purchase and hold freehold properties in designated areas of Dubai’s mainland. This includes full ownership rights, enabling firms to establish long-term operational bases, invest in commercial assets, or diversify their real estate portfolios within one of the Middle East’s most dynamic property markets.

To facilitate this change, the DLD and Masdar City have put in place a structured process designed to ensure transparency, speed, and ease of access. Companies eligible under this agreement can apply for property ownership through DLD’s digital registration platform, which allows for end-to-end processing of applications. The system requires the submission of standard documentation, such as trade licenses, company ownership certificates, and proof of authorization from decision-makers within the firm.

Once approved, ownership titles are issued digitally and registered within DLD’s property system under the company’s name, eliminating the need for local sponsorship or mainland business setup. This is a significant simplification of the legal pathway for property investment, especially for innovation-driven firms that previously faced complex restrictions.

Beyond streamlining the application process, the MoU also includes provisions for advisory and legal support, ensuring that firms unfamiliar with Dubai’s property regulations are guided clearly and effectively. The agreement sets the tone for future collaborations between Dubai and other UAE free zones and opens the door to increased mobility, capital flow, and regional integration.

In practical terms, this development means that more free zone companies can now own property in Dubai’s mainland without needing a mainland trade license or relying on NOC-based approvals. It signals the beginning of a more flexible, inclusive property ownership framework that reflects the UAE’s ambition to be a global leader in business and investment innovation.

For firms based in Masdar City—and potentially other free zones in the future—this is an invitation to reevaluate their presence in the UAE’s commercial capital. It is not just a legal adjustment but a strategic enabler of business growth, regional connectivity, and long-term investment potential.