In case you are investing in the fast-growing real estate industry in Dubai, you should understand the difference between a Title Deed and an Oqood. For many new investors, there is a grave misunderstanding that these documents are interchangeable; however, whenever a Title Deed vs an Oqood is entered, it is the dividing line between owning a completed property and reserving your rights to an off-plan property.
In this 2025 guide, we have demystified Oqood Dubai and Title Deed Dubai, explaining how registrations work, the legal ramifications, and the process for changing your Oqood to Title Deed when the time comes.
What is Oqood?
Pre-registration contracts are issued to off-plan properties, which are projects that are not yet complete and are still in the planning phase. These are known as Oqood Dubai certificates. The system, handled by the Dubai Land Department (DLD) and known as the RERA property registration Dubai system, enforces maximum guidelines on payment schedules, construction timelines, and protection for buyers.
Important Oqood Dubai facts:
- A legal requirement of every off-plan property Dubai deal.
- Incorporates unit specification, purchase price, payment scheme, and developer.
- Saves buyers legally as long as the property is not yet ready for handover.
Pro Tip: Before signing the Oqood Dubai agreement, make sure your developer is registered with RERA.
What is a Title Deed in Dubai?
A Title Deed Dubai is your final piece of evidence of complete property ownership. The DLD usually issues it after you pay the full amount and are ready to occupy the property, giving you legal rights to sell, lease, or mortgage the property.
Numbers to know about Title Deed Dubai:
- Provided on finished estates (ready to move in).
- Lists names of owners, their description of property, as well as their plot and building descriptions.
- Enrolled in the title deed office in the Dubai Land Department.
Title Deed vs Oqood – Detailed Comparison
| Feature | Title Deed Dubai | Oqood Dubai |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Full ownership rights | Pre-registration for off-plan property in Dubai |
| Transferability | Transferable via sale/inheritance | Transfer requires developer approval |
| Legal Rights | Proof of ownership | Proof of investment rights |
| Issuing Authority | Dubai Land Department title deed section | RERA property registration Dubai |
| Timeline | After completion & payment | Immediately after the purchase contract signing |
Converting a deed of ownership to a title deed in Dubai
Once your off-plan property Dubai project is mature, you need to upgrade your Oqood Dubai to a Title Deed Dubai.
Steps:
- The builder receives the certification of building completion.
- Pay off all existing debts (service fees too).
- Submit an application to the title deed office at the Dubai Land Department.
- Submit the following documents: Oqood, passport/Emirates ID, and NOC of the developer.
- Pay DLD applicable fees.
- Obtain your Title Deed in Dubai, which legally gives you ownership.
Title Deed vs Oqood: Popular Misconceptions
- My Oqood means I already own the property → No. Oqood is proof of investment, not full ownership.
- I don’t need to register Oqood for off-plan property in Dubai. It’s legally mandatory.
- I can’t sell an off-plan property before completion. However, you can, but you’ll need developer consent and transfer via RERA property registration in Dubai.
Investor Checklist -Don’t Make These Costly Mistakes.
- It is important to look at whether the developer is RERA-approved before Oqood Dubai registration.
- Organise a copy of all payment receipts.
- Inquire at DLD records to make sure your property is registered.
- Change Oqood to the Title Deed of Dubai the moment the handover occurs.
- Dubai transactions: all transactions are done using DLD and RERA, the official channels to register properties.
Final Word
Title Deed and Oqood are terms commonly used in the real estate market in various places in Dubai. Understanding these terms can help safeguard your investment and rights to the property. Whether you’re purchasing a new property off-plan in Dubai or receiving your Title Deed, understanding the process helps ensure you’re within regulatory guidelines when buying properties or obtaining your title deed.
In case of any hesitation, reach out to a licensed agent or the RERA property registration Dubai team to ensure you are not making costly decisions and protect your future in the property market of Dubai.
Read more: Corporate Tax in UAE
FAQs
Q1: With Oqood, can I sell my property?
A: Yes, but developer approval is required, and this is under the RERA property registration system in Dubai.
Q2: Is Oqood legal evidence of possession?
A: It is evidence of investment in Dubai off-plan property. Each buyer receives a Title Deed Dubai in full ownership.
Q3: What is the timing to obtain a Title Deed in Dubai?
A: Normally, the same day is provided, provided all is in order with papers/fees at the title deed office at the Dubai Land Department.
Q4: Does Oqood registration have to be done?
A: Yes, on every off-plan property in Dubai sale.
