DLD & Masdar City Sign MoC to Boost Free Zone Property Ownership in Dubai

On July 24, 2025, the Dubai Land Department (DLD) 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 Dubai’s freehold ownership system. This strategic collaboration seeks to enhance Dubai’s real estate competitiveness and expand the investor base by unlocking new ownership opportunities for free zone companies, aligning closely with the goals of the Dubai Real Estate Strategy 2033. The memorandum was signed by Majid Al Marri, CEO of the Real Estate Registration Sector at DLD, and Ahmed Baghoum, CEO of Masdar City, during an official ceremony attended by senior officials from both parties. Majid Al Marri emphasized that the agreement supports the integration of the UAE’s real estate ecosystem, providing diverse ownership options for companies and furthering the objectives of Dubai’s Economic Agenda D33 by attracting new investment flows and ensuring sustainable market growth. Ahmed Baghoum highlighted Masdar City’s role in offering innovative solutions for businesses, noting that this partnership simplifies property registration for free zone companies and supports their operational expansion while reinforcing Dubai’s global investment appeal. Under the agreement, both entities will work together to develop a comprehensive framework that includes eligibility criteria, legal and administrative procedures, and a streamlined digital system for application processing, data exchange, and document verification. The initiative reinforces DLD’s commitment to market openness, transparency, and investor-friendly regulations, helping to create a more integrated, attractive, and thriving business environment in the UAE.