Al Jaddaf Freehold Conversion: Dubai’s New Investment Hotspot
Dubai’s property market is entering a new phase of growth. After the big move to allow freehold on Sheikh Zayed Road, the freehold conversion boom has now reached Al Jaddaf. This change is opening new doors for investors and end-users who want to own property in the city.
For buyers, Al Jaddaf brings something rare in Dubai today: affordable prices in a central location. Unlike Downtown Dubai or Business Bay, where prices are already high, Al Jaddaf still offers strong value. Experts believe this makes it one of the best areas for people buying their first home or looking for long-term investment opportunities.
Dubai’s Freehold Policy: What Changed?
In early 2025, Dubai announced that certain plots and buildings on Sheikh Zayed Road and Al Jaddaf could be converted into freehold. This decision included 329 plots in Al Jaddaf.
Before this, these plots were restricted, often limited to GCC investors. Now, buyers from all nationalities can invest and take ownership.
For investors, this policy offers a chance to enter the market at lower prices. By the time new projects are completed in three to four years, property values are expected to rise. This makes Al Jaddaf a smart place for buyers looking at both living and investing.
Al Jaddaf: An Area on the Rise
Al Jaddaf sits along Dubai Creek and has always been known for its location and culture. But with the freehold conversion, the area is moving into a new chapter.
It is becoming a residential and commercial hub, close to Downtown Dubai, Business Bay, and Healthcare City. Unlike other prime spots, buyers here can still avoid the heavy price premium.
As one estate agent put it:
“Al Jaddaf could become one of the last central locations in Dubai where people can buy without paying Downtown prices.”
Another emerging location offering similar value is Dubai Maritime City, which is also attracting buyers who want more space and better pricing.
Developers Moving Fast: New Projects in Al Jaddaf
Developers have quickly jumped in to launch new projects in the area. Azizi Developments is leading the way with Azizi David, a new freehold project in Al Jaddaf.
The project was launched on land that was once limited to GCC buyers. Now, it has been opened for freehold. According to Farhad Azizi, CEO of Azizi Developments:
“Al Jaddaf continues to draw strong demand from both local and international buyers.”
At Azizi David, prices start at AED 1.24 million for a one-bedroom apartment and AED 1.6 million for a two-bedroom.
This is Azizi’s second new launch in just weeks. The developer earlier introduced Azizi Abraham in the Jebel Ali Free Zone. The choice of emerging areas shows how developers are targeting new freehold hotspots instead of only focusing on traditional locations.
Another key player is Harbor Real Estate, which is advising JAD Global Real Estate Development on a freehold launch in Al Jaddaf.
Dr. Mohanad Alwadiya, CEO of Harbor, said:
“We are preparing a project that matches the government’s vision to make Al Jaddaf a vibrant hub open to all investors.”
Current Property Prices in Al Jaddaf
Al Jaddaf already has some major developments. The most well-known is the D1 Tower, which stands tall in the area’s skyline. Apartments in D1 Tower are now being resold in the secondary market:
- Studios are selling for around AED 1.1 million.
- One-bedroom units range from AED 1.7 million to AED 2.2 million, depending on the size and the views.
Across Al Jaddaf, current prices are:
- Studios from AED 650,000.
- One-bedroom apartments from AED 1 million to AED 1.5 million.
According to Aakarshan Kathuria, CEO of RiseUp, the average price per square foot is between AED 1,550 and AED 1,620.
Experts are predicting a 15% to 30% price rise in the coming years. This growth will be powered by freehold conversions, new launches, and ongoing redevelopment in the area.
Location and Connectivity: A Strong Advantage
One of Al Jaddaf’s biggest strengths is its location and transport links.
- It is served by two Dubai Metro stations: Al Jaddaf and Creek.
- It is just minutes away from Downtown Dubai, Business Bay, and Healthcare City.
- The Etihad Rail hub under development will further boost connectivity.
This easy access makes Al Jaddaf attractive for both buyers and tenants. With better roads and infrastructure being added, the area is also becoming popular for offices and commercial spaces.
Support for First-Time Home Buyers
In July 2025, Dubai announced a new programme for first-time home buyers. Under this initiative, developers set aside a certain number of units at reduced prices.
Al Jaddaf is a strong fit for this scheme. It offers central location benefits at more affordable rates compared to Downtown or Business Bay.
Property consultants believe many residents who have lived in Dubai for 3–5 years and plan to stay longer will see Al Jaddaf as their entry point into home ownership.
Why Invest in Al Jaddaf Now?
Several factors make Al Jaddaf one of the best investment choices in 2025:
- Freehold Expansion – 329 plots are now open for global investors.
- Affordable Prices – Units are cheaper compared to Downtown and Business Bay.
- Prime Location – Close to central districts and well connected by Metro.
- Strong Growth Potential – Experts forecast 15%–30% property price growth in coming years.
- Rental Opportunities – Location near offices, schools, and healthcare ensures tenant demand.
- Developer Confidence – Big names like Azizi are investing heavily in the area.
- Government Incentives – First-time buyer programme supports demand and ownership.
With all these drivers, Al Jaddaf is moving fast from an underrated location to a key investment hub in Dubai’s property market.
The Bigger Picture: Dubai’s Property Market Strategy
Dubai’s decision to allow freehold in new areas is part of a bigger plan. The city wants to create a property market that welcomes all investors, while offering strong opportunities across budget levels.
By opening Sheikh Zayed Road and Al Jaddaf for freehold, Dubai is:
- Giving international buyers more ownership rights.
- Creating value-for-money options in prime locations.
- Supporting long-term residents who want to own a home.
This strategy not only boosts demand but also strengthens Dubai’s position as a global real estate leader.
