How to Get an Oqood Certificate in Dubai?

If you’re planning to invest in off-plan property in Dubai, you’ve probably heard the term Oqood. And if you’re wondering how to get an Oqood certificate, this guide will help you. For many buyers, this step feels confusing at first. But once you understand the process, it’s actually quite straightforward.

Let’s break it down in a simple, practical way.

What is Oqood?

Oqood is a government-issued registration certificate for off-plan properties in Dubai. It is issued by the Dubai Land Department (DLD) and serves as initial proof of ownership while the property is still under construction.

In simple words,

• Ready property – You get a Title Deed

• Off-plan property – You get an Oqood certificate

Why is Oqood Important?

Without Oqood, your property purchase is not officially registered. Here is why Oqood is important:

• It legally records your ownership with the DLD

• Protects you from duplicate or fraudulent sales

• Required for the resale of off-plan property

• Helps in securing bank financing

• Ensures transparency in the real estate transaction

Who Applies for the Oqood Certificate?

This is where many buyers get confused. You don’t apply for Oqood directly. The property developer applies on your behalf through the Oqood system.

Your role is to complete the required steps and payments so the developer can process it.

How to Get an Oqood Certificate?

1. Sign the Sales and Purchase Agreement (SPA)

Once you finalize your property, you sign the SPA (Sales and Purchase Agreement) with the developer.
This is the first official step toward ownership.

2. Pay the Required Initial Amount

You typically need to pay at least 25% of the property value for Oqood to be issued.

3. Developer Submits Registration Request

The developer will register your property through the Oqood system by submitting details like:

• Property unit details

• Project information

• Buyer information

• Payment records

4. Pay Oqood Registration Fees

The Oqood registration fee is usually 4% of the property value (similar to DLD fees).

This is collected by the developer and submitted to the Dubai Land Department.

5. Approval from Dubai Land Department

Once everything is verified, the DLD reviews the application.

6. Oqood Certificate Issued

After approval, your Oqood certificate is issued digitally.

This confirms that your off-plan property is officially registered in your name.

Documents Required for Oqood:

As a buyer, you’ll need the following documents:

• Passport copy

• Emirates ID (if applicable)

• Signed SPA

• Proof of payment

• Contact details

Developers will handle most of the technical submission.

How Long Does It Take?

In most cases, Oqood is issued within:

• 2 to 3 months after payment and documentation

However, timelines may vary depending on the developer and project.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

Many buyers delay their Oqood without realizing it. Here are some common issues:

• Delaying initial payment

• Not verifying developer registration

• Missing documentation

• Assuming Oqood is optional (it’s not)

Oqood vs Title Deed :

Getting an Oqoodcertificate is not complicated, but it’s one of the most important steps in buying off-plan property in Dubai. Once you understand that the developer handles the process and your role is mainly documentation and payment, everything becomes much clearer. If you’re planning to invest in Dubai real estate, make sure your Oqood is properly registered; it’s your first official proof of ownership.

At Hectare, we guide property buyers through the entire off-plan investment process, including:

• Choosing the right project

• Verifying developer credibility

• Ensuring smooth Oqood registration

• Handling documentation and compliance

Contact us to get more details.