Property ownership for foreigners in sharjah

Sharjah is a lively and artsy destination in the UAE. Over the years, property ownership has been very limited. However, the situation has changed; foreigners can now own property in such an active city. This has created wonderful opportunities for people and their families to make decisions that lead to solid financial security and a comfortable existence.

Why Invest in Sharjah?

Sharjah’s unique blend of affordability, cultural heritage, and strategic location positions it as a compelling alternative to Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Below are the key drivers behind its growing appeal:

Cost-Effective Property Market

Sharjah offers competitively priced residential and commercial properties, with average prices 30–40% lower than Dubai. Areas like Al Khan and Al Majaz offer modern apartments starting from AED 400,000, attracting budget-conscious buyers and investors who seek high rental yields of 6–8% annually.

Proximity to Dubai’s Opportunities

Sharjah is only 20 minutes from Dubai’s business hubs, such as Deira and DIFC. It allows residents to access Dubai’s job market and amenities while enjoying lower living costs. Key areas like Al Taawun offer seamless connectivity via Emirates Road and Metro links.

UAE’s Cultural Heartbeat

As a UNESCO-designated “Cultural Capital,” Sharjah has over 20 museums which includes the Sharjah Art Museum, heritage sites like the Heart of Sharjah, and annual events like the Sharjah Biennial. This cultural richness appeals to artists, educators, and families valuing community-centric lifestyles.

Family-Focused Infrastructure

• Education: Top-tier schools like the American School of Creative Science and Sharjah English School.
• Recreation: Expansive green spaces (Al Montazah Parks, Al Majaz Waterfront) and safe, pedestrian-friendly neighbourhoods.
• Healthcare: Proximity to facilities like Al Qassimi Hospital and NMC Royal Hospital.

Future-Ready Developments

Projects like Sharjah Sustainable City and the Aljada megaproject (AED 24 billion) showcase the emirate’s commitment to sustainable, tech-integrated communities, which enhances its long-term investment potential.

Sharjah's New Property Laws

The Sharjah Executive Council (SEC), led by Dr Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, has transformed the laws regulating property ownership in the emirate. The key changes include:

1. Freehold Ownership for All Nationalities: Expats can now own freehold residential properties in certain areas. This means they shall enjoy full ownership rights, as UAE nationals do. It succeeded the 2014 regulation that passed the 100-year leasehold title and the 2018 regulation that extended freehold in some regions.
2. Usufruct Rights: When freehold ownership is impossible, foreigners can obtain usufruct rights for up to 100 years. This gives the holder the liberty to enjoy or benefit from the property for a decent period.
3. Designated Freehold Zones: Several sectors have been granted Free Trade Zone status, thus permitting full foreign ownership:
   • Sharjah Media City
   • Hamriyah Free Zone
   • Sharjah Airport International Free Zone Commercial Licence
   • Sharjah Publishing City
   • Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park

If you're considering a long-term investment or a family home, now is an excellent time to buy villa in Sharjah, especially in newly developed freehold zones offering full ownership rights to foreigners.

Forms of Property Acquisition for Expatriates

Expats in Sharjah have two primary ways to own property:

1. 100-Year Leasehold: This option gives expats a renewable leasehold of the property for 100 years. It offers extended duration and is available throughout Sharjah.
2. Freehold Ownership: This entitles foreigners to full ownership rights anywhere within the zones. It is most suitable for long-term investment and gives similar privileges to UAE nationals.

Popular Investment Locations

Now that you understand the benefits, let's explore some of the most popular locations where expats are buying property in Sharjah:

Al Khan

It has exclusive villas with beach views with easy access to the two international airports of Dubai and Sharjah. On average, the apartments in Al Khan are priced from AED 398,000 for a studio to AED 905,000 for a two-bedroom apartment.

Al Majaz

The Al Majaz offers a variety of attractions for health-conscious tourists, including a bustling city centre, a scenic lagoon, lush parks, and family-friendly restaurants. One-bedroom apartments are priced at AED 342,000 for those seeking accommodation, while two-bedroom options average AED 602,000.

Muwaileh

Muwaileh is accessible to most highways, has wise schools, and is a family-like environment. Average apartment prices range from AED 433,000 for a studio to AED 1,081,000 for a two-bedroom apartment.

Al Nahda

Al Nahda is a perfect location for commuters. The average cost to buy one bedroom is AED 360,000, and to rent a two-bedroom is AED 49,000.

Aljada

A residential neighbourhood containing different housing types, such as apartments, townhouses, and villas. The average cost to buy one bedroom is AED 260,000, and to rent a two-bedroom is AED 80,000.

Maryam Island

Maryam Island is an upscale residential and commercial project with units along the waterfront. The average cost to buy one bedroom is AED 730,000, and to rent a two-bedroom is AED 80,000.

Tilal City

A commercial and residential development featuring building plots for sale, where foreigners, namely non-Arabs, are allowed to purchase freehold land. The average cost to buy one bedroom is AED 738,000, and to rent a two-bedroom is AED 125,000.

Process of Acquiring Property in Sharjah

The following are the steps for expatriates to acquire a property:

Step 1: Choose a property in a freehold or leasehold area.

Step 2: Select a developer you know can give you quality projects.

Step 3: Seek advice from a real estate agent who has a proper understanding of the laws in the UAE.

Step 4: Consider financing with the UAE banks or buying directly with cash.

Step 5: Contact the Sharjah Real Estate Registration Department to acquire the property's title deed.

Legal Requirements for Property Acquisition in Sharjah

Adherence to the emirate's updated regulations is mandatory to ensure secure and compliant property transactions in Sharjah. Key obligations include:

• Ownership Updates

Buyers must notify the Sharjah Real Estate Registration Department (SRERD) within 30 days of any ownership structure changes, trade name, or partnership adjustments.

• Transfer Restrictions

Property transfers are permitted only to first-degree relatives (spouses, children, parents) or through inheritance, unless authorised by SRERD for external sales.

• Violation Rectification

Non-compliance, such as unauthorised transfers or delayed reporting, requires immediate corrective action to avoid fines of up to AED 50,000 or transaction annulment.

Conclusion

Due to ongoing market changes, Sharjah’s real estate market offers promising prospects for expats. It is financially secure, has long-term leases, and is an active market, which makes Sharjah an attractive investment destination. Whether you're purchasing a personal residence, an investment property for rent or sale, or a holiday home, the multicultural society and the prospect of living in Sharjah make it an ideal choice.

Considering investing in Sharjah? Contact us now for detailed guidance.

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