Difference between Title Deed and Oqood

• Oqood
• Title Deed
• FAQs

Planning to invest in the UAE property market? Well, you need to be aware of the basic processes and documentation to avoid any missteps. One of the important things you need to understand is the difference between
Title deed and Oqood. Here we explain the differences between the two documents and how you can ensure to follow the right process. So, read on as we discuss Oqood vs Title Deed.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN TITLE DEED AND OQOOD?

To understand Oqood vs Title Deed differences, we need to first understand the legal meaning of these documents.

WHAT IS AN OQOOD CERTIFICATE?

Oqood is a pre-registration contract specific to off-plan properties in Dubai. In simpler terms, if you have invested in a property which is under construction or in planning phase, you will get an Oqood certificate. It provides a regulatory framework that ensures protection of the property buyer and the developer. The Oqood system was introduced to ensure that the developer adheres to guidelines and regulations with respect to financials and construction timeline.  

The document is issued by Dubai Land Department (DLD) and it is supervised by Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA), a department of DLD. Typically, it includes information such as purchase price, payment schedule, unit number, floor plan and developer’s details.

For further details about the services, you can read our guide about Oqood.

WHAT IS A TITLE DEED?

Next we talk about the use of a Title Deed, in our discussion about the difference between Title Deed and Oqood in Dubai. Title Deed is the proof of ownership. Typically, a Title Deed includes information such as the owner’s name, description of the property, the location and the size of the land or building.

In each emirate, there are different local land departments or relevant governmental authorities which register Title Deeds. In Dubai, it is the DLD. When a sale is made, the Title Deed is transferred in the name of the new buyer.

Here is a list of land departments which register Title Deeds in each emirate.

• Umm Al Quwain: Umm Al Quwain Municipality
• Sharjah: Sharjah Real Estate Registration Department (SRERD)
• Ras Al Khaimah: Ras Al Khaimah Municipality
• Fujairah: Fujairah Municipality
• Dubai: Dubai Land Department (DLD)
• Ajman: Ajman Real Estate Regulatory Agency (ARRA)
• Abu Dhabi: Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT)

DIFFERENCE BETWEEN TITLE DEED AND OQOOD IN DUBAI

Here is an overview of the Oqood vs Title Deed comparison.

FAQs about Oqood vs Title Deed and more

How do I convert an Oqood into a Title Deed?

To convert an Oqood into a Title Deed, you would need to complete the sale and register it with the relevant emirate authority.

WHAT ARE THE RIGHTS OF LANDLORDS IN DUBAI?

Own a house in the UAE or planning to buy one as an investment? Read our guide on landlords rental rights in Dubai.

HOW TO APPEAL A REAL ESTATE DISPUTE IN DUBAI?

Here is the process to appeal a real estate dispute in Dubai.

Can I sell my property if I only have an Oqood?

Yes, it can be sold but with certain conditions, including approval from the developer.

Which authority issues the Title Deed in Dubai?

Dubai Land Department (DLD) issues Title Deeds in Dubai.

Is Oqood a legal proof of ownership?

Oqood is legal proof that one has invested in an off-plan property. For full ownership, issuance of a Title Deed is necessary.

Is Oqood registration mandatory for buyers in Dubai?

Yes, if it is an off-plan property, Oqood registration is mandatory.

This concludes our blog discussing the difference between Title Deed and Oqood. To surmise Oqood vs Title Deed, the latter is for properties that have been completed and paid for, while the former is for off plan properties.

You can also learn about common Dubai real estate terminologies if you are interested in investing in Dubai real estate market.