Price Trends
Quality of Life and the Value of a Home
January 17, 2026
Since foreign freehold ownership was permitted in designated areas, thousands of homes have been sold to international buyers. The market has grown at a remarkable pace, but one of its foundations is still being built: a comprehensive, reliable register of property titles for freehold owners. Registration reform is now one of the most important issues facing the market.
What registration does
- Proves ownership: an official record of who owns each property.
- Enables mortgages: banks need registered title to lend safely.
- Supports resale: buyers can verify ownership before purchasing.
- Protects against fraud: disputes about ownership can be resolved by reference to the register.
The current situation
For many freehold buyers, ownership is recorded primarily in the developer's systems, with official registration still being formalised. That works while the developer is reliable, but it is not the same as a public register with legal standing.
What reform could look like
A comprehensive reform would establish clear rules for registering freehold property owned by foreigners, including off-plan sales, define the rights of owners in jointly owned buildings and create a transparent record of transactions. It would likely be accompanied by regulations on developers and agents.
Benefits for the market
Reliable registration would make Dubai more attractive to cautious investors and institutions, expand mortgage availability and support a healthier resale market. It would also improve data on prices and transactions, helping buyers make better decisions.
What owners should do now
Owners should keep copies of all contracts, payment receipts and correspondence, and follow up with their developers on registration. When formal registration becomes available, they should ensure their properties are properly recorded.
Our view
Registration reform is not as eye-catching as islands or towers, but it is essential for a mature, trustworthy market. We expect significant progress in the coming years and see it as one of the most positive developments for long-term investors.
