If you are buying property in Dubai, especially for the first time, you will often hear two important terms: Oqood and Title Deed. Both are issued by the Dubai Land Department (DLD), yet they serve different purposes depending on the stage of the property purchase. Understanding the difference between Oqood and a Title Deed is important to avoid confusion and to ensure your property ownership is legally protected.
What Is Oqood?
Oqood is a registration system used by the Dubai Land Department for properties that are still under construction. When you purchase an off-plan property from a developer, the sale is registered in the Oqood system, not as a Title Deed. This registration confirms that:
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A valid sale agreement exists between the buyer and the developer
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The buyer’s details are officially recorded with DLD
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The property unit is legally reserved under the buyer’s name
However, Oqood does not mean full ownership yet. It simply records your interest in a property that is still being built.
Key points about Oqood:
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Used only for off-plan properties
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Issued during the construction phase
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Linked to the Sales Purchase Agreement (SPA)
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Converted into a Title Deed after project completion
What Is a Title Deed?
A Title Deed is the final and most important ownership document issued by the Dubai Land Department. It proves that the property is fully completed, registered, and legally owned by the buyer. Once the property is handed over and all payments are completed, the Oqood registration is replaced with a Title Deed, officially transferring ownership to the buyer.
Key points about a Title Deed:
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Issued for completed properties
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Confirms full legal ownership
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Required for selling, mortgaging, or leasing the property
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Registered permanently with DLD
Oqood vs Title Deed: Key Differences
| Aspect | Oqood | Title Deed |
|---|---|---|
| Property Type | Off-plan (under construction) | Completed property |
| Ownership Status | Buyer interest recorded | Full legal ownership |
| Issuing Authority | Dubai Land Department | Dubai Land Department |
| When Issued | During construction | After completion & handover |
| Transferability | Limited | Fully transferable |
Many buyers mistakenly assume that Oqood gives them the same rights as a Title Deed. In reality, Oqood is a temporary registration, while the Title Deed is permanent proof of ownership.
Understanding this difference helps you:
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Know your legal rights at each stage
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Plan resale or mortgage options correctly
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Avoid disputes during handover
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Ensure proper DLD registration compliance
When Does Oqood Convert to a Title Deed?
Oqood is converted into a Title Deed once:
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The project is completed
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The developer receives completion approval
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All payments and DLD fees are settled
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The buyer applies for final ownership registration
After this, the Dubai Land Department issues the Title Deed in the buyer’s name.
In simple terms:
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Oqood = off-plan property registration
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Title Deed = full ownership document
Both are essential parts of Dubai’s transparent real estate system, but they apply at different stages of the buying journey. Knowing the difference ensures smoother transactions and complete peace of mind when investing in property.
For professional assistance with Oqood registration, Title Deed issuance, and Dubai Land Department procedures, you can explore our expert guidance at Hectare UAE.
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