When you buy property in Dubai, ownership type matters. The two main types are **freehold** and **leasehold**. **Freehold** You own the unit (and usually a share of common areas) indefinitely. You can sell, rent, or mortgage it. Most residential projects in Dubai that are sold to foreign buyers are freehold. This is the standard for investors and owner-occupiers. **Leasehold** You hold a long lease — often 99 years — from the landowner (e.g. government or master developer). You have the right to use and, within the lease terms, to sell or sublet. At the end of the lease, rights typically revert to the landowner unless extended. Some areas or buildings in Dubai are leasehold; they are less common for mainstream off-plan sales to international buyers. **What to check** - In the Sale and Purchase Agreement (SPA), look for “freehold” or “leasehold” and the term (e.g. 99 years). - Freehold is the norm in Dubai’s main free zones and developments marketed to overseas investors. - For financing, banks generally prefer freehold; leasehold can have different loan terms. If you’re comparing properties, use our [ROI calculator](/tools/roi-calculator) and [areas guide](/areas) to see yields and scores.