Owning a property in Dubai means holding a document that proves your legal rights to it, the Title Deed. Issued and registered by the Dubai Land Department (DLD), this document is the official proof of ownership for any completed property in Dubai.
Understanding how the title deed in Dubai works, how to obtain it, and how it differs from Oqood registration is essential for both residents and foreign investors purchasing real estate in the city.
What Is a Title Deed in Dubai?
A Title Deed is an official legal document issued by the Dubai Land Department confirming ownership of a completed property.
It contains the owner’s name, property details (plot number, location, type, area), and the ownership rights associated with the unit. Once the title deed is issued, the property is officially registered in your name, giving you 100% legal ownership and the right to sell, rent, or mortgage it.
Each title deed is digitally recorded in the DLD’s registry, ensuring transparency and preventing fraudulent claims.
How to Get a Copy of Title Deed in Dubai
Getting a copy of your title deed in Dubai is quick and can be done online or in person:
Option 1: Through the Dubai REST App
- Download the Dubai REST app (available on iOS and Android).
- Log in using your UAE Pass or create a new account.
- Go to Property Details → My Properties.
- Select the property and click Download Title Deed.
The digital version is recognized as an official document and includes a secure QR code.
Option 2: Through the Dubai Land Department Office
- Visit a DLD Customer Happiness Center or an authorized Trustee Office.
- Provide the property number or title deed reference.
- Present your Emirates ID or passport (if a foreign owner).
- Pay a small administrative fee (typically AED 250–300).
- Receive a printed copy of your title deed on the spot.
Digital and paper copies carry equal legal validity under DLD regulations.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Title Deed in Dubai?
The timeframe depends on the type of transaction:
Ready Property (Resale or New): 1–3 working days.
Off-Plan Property: Upon completion and final registration.
For most ready properties, the title deed is received within 48 hours of the final payment and transfer process.
What Is the Difference Between Title Deed and Oqood?
Many new buyers in Dubai confuse Title Deed and Oqood, but they refer to different stages of property registration.
Oqood vs Title Deed
Issued by: Developer via DLD’s Oqood system vs. Dubai Land Department (DLD)
Applies to: Off-plan properties (under construction) vs. Completed properties (ready for handover)
Purpose: Registers buyer’s interest before handover vs. Confirms full ownership and legal title
Transferable: Can be reassigned before completion vs. Enables sale, lease, or mortgage
Legal Status: Proof of purchase contract vs. Proof of ownership
In simple terms: Oqood is a temporary registration during construction, while the Title Deed is the permanent ownership certificate once the property is handed over and registered.
What Does Oqood Mean?
“Oqood” is an Arabic word meaning “contracts.”
In Dubai’s real estate context, Oqood refers to the off-plan property registration system managed by the Dubai Land Department. It ensures that all off-plan sales are documented and registered to protect both the developer and the buyer.
The Oqood record includes:
- The buyer’s and developer’s names
- The purchase price and payment plan
- Project details and expected completion date
Once the project is complete and the property receives its final completion certificate, the Oqood record is converted into a title deed, finalizing ownership.
Ownership Transfer: How It Works
When a property sale is completed, ownership must be officially transferred at the Dubai Land Department through one of its Real Estate Services Trustee Centers.
Required documents:
- Buyer and seller’s Emirates IDs or passports
- Original title deed (for resales)
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the developer
- Signed sale contract or MOU
- Payment confirmation (manager’s cheque)
Process:
- DLD verifies all documents and clears any outstanding service charges.
- Buyer pays the 4% DLD transfer fee and trustee service fee.
- The new title deed is issued in the buyer’s name (digital and paper copy).
This entire process usually takes one working day once all documents are in order.
Key Takeaways
- A title deed is the official proof of property ownership in Dubai, issued by the Dubai Land Department.
- You can obtain or verify your title deed digitally via the Dubai REST app or directly at a DLD office.
- Oqood applies only to off-plan projects before completion, while title deeds apply to ready properties.
- The ownership transfer process is fast, transparent, and legally regulated, making Dubai one of the safest real estate markets in the region.
