New law on public land will boost Dubai's status as an investable city, experts say

Ruling will align allocation of public land in emirate with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan

Experts have welcomed a new law on the allocation of public land in Dubai. Antonie Robertson/The National

Dubai will become more appealing to investors and developers thanks to a new law focusing on the allocation of public land, property experts say.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, issued the new law on Monday to align the allocation of public land with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, the state news agency Wam reported. The ruling has been welcomed by property experts in the city who believe it will boost Dubai's profile by offering clarity on public land processes.

“This law reinforces the structured planning framework investors prioritise when allocating capital to urban markets,” said Farooq Syed, chief executive of Springfield Properties. "It strengthens Dubai’s position as a globally investable city anchored by transparent governance and long-term growth planning.”

By removing ambiguity from public land processes, the law increases predictability for developers and investors, he said, adding that it also ensures that infrastructure and services in future urban communities are planned in tandem with residential and commercial growth.

“Centralising oversight around verifiable public need enhances operational efficiency and improves the predictability of development pipelines,” said Mr Syed. “Such clarity is critical for maintaining Dubai’s appeal to institutional and private investors alike.”

The new law addresses the urgent need to co-ordinate residential development, transport, health care, and education facilities across the city’s rapidly expanding urban footprint, he added.

The Dubai Urban Master Plan 2040 estimates the city's population will rise to 5.8 million by 2040. Currently, the Dubai Statistics Centre estimates the population to be 3.8 million.

The new law also strengthens Dubai’s continuing pivot towards intentional, sustainable growth, aligning with global governance standards seen in cities such as Singapore and Copenhagen, where land allocation is directly tied to strategic objectives and public service delivery, added Mr Syed.

Efficiency in action

The ruling will lead to more effective and efficient use of land, according to another expert. "By aligning with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, this could enhance urban development and planning, thus reducing waste and mismatches in land use," said Mario Volpi, head of brokerage at Novvi Properties.

"Overall, this law appears to be a strategic move towards modernising land governance in Dubai, aimed at enhancing operations and aligning with the long-term urban development goals. It’s another change in the way Dubai does things that is aimed at improving efficiency and making Dubai the destination of choice for visitors and residents alike."