If you are looking to buy property in Dubai, you must have come across terms like Title Deed and Oqood. Understanding these two key documents is important when navigating the property market in the UAE. Both serve different purposes and have unique roles in securing your real estate investment. Let’s explore the differences, their significance, and why both documents matter in your property journey.
Main Differences Between Oqood vs. Title Deed
What is Oqood?
The term Oqood translates to “contract” in Arabic. An Oqood certificate is a pre-registration document issued for properties still under construction or in the off-plan stage. In simpler words, if you’ve bought a property that isn’t completed yet, you will receive an Oqood certificate as your first proof of purchase. This certificate is issued by the Dubai Land Department (DLD) and plays an important role in buying or selling off-plan property in Dubai.
Key Features of Oqood:
- Issued for off-plan properties: If you are buying a property that’s under construction, the Oqood certificate will be your first form of ownership proof.
- Contractual commitment: This document protects both you and the developer. The Oqood registration system ensures that developers adhere to construction timelines and that buyers’ investments are protected.
- Digital and accessible: The Oqood system is managed digitally by the DLD, which provides a smooth registration process.
To get an Oqood certificate, your developer will handle the process after you sign the Sale and Purchase Agreement (SPA) and make the initial payment. The certificate usually includes your unit number, purchase price, payment terms, and the developer’s information.
How to Get an Oqood Certificate Online
To obtain your Oqood certificate online, follow these steps:
- Initial purchase and payment: Sign the Sale and Purchase Agreement (SPA) with the developer and make the required initial payment.
- Developer registration: The developer will submit your details and property information to the DLD through the Oqood portal.
- Receive the certificate: Once your registration is complete, you’ll receive your Oqood certificate electronically. This digital certificate will provide key details about your unit, purchase terms, and information about the developer.
What is a Title Deed?
It is the ultimate proof of your ownership. Unlike the Oqood certificate, which is issued during the early stages of purchase, the title deed is only granted after the property is completed and handed over. Once you have the title deed, you have full ownership rights to your property, including the ability to sell, lease, or mortgage it. The Dubai Land Department is responsible for issuing title deeds in Dubai.
Key Features of the Title Deed:
- Legal ownership: It confirms that you are the legal owner of the property.
- Final proof of ownership: While the Oqood represents a promise of ownership for off-plan properties, the title deed provides the final and conclusive proof of ownership.
- Necessary for all transactions: You cannot sell, lease, or mortgage your property without a title deed.
To get a title deed, you first need to make all payments, make sure your property is ready for handover, and meet all requirements set by the Dubai Land Department (DLD). Once you have it, this document confirms your full legal ownership of the property.
How to Get a Title Deed Online
You can get a title deed online in Dubai through the Dubai Land Department (DLD). Here’s how you can obtain it digitally
- Complete Property Purchase: Please make sure all payments related to your property purchase are settled and obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the developer.
- Prepare Required Documents: Gather all necessary documents, including a copy of your passport, NOC, sales contract, and the seller’s original title deed.
- Visit a Real Estate Registration Trustee (RERT) Office: Submit the collected documents to an authorized RERT office. The office will process the ownership transfer and initiate the issuance of your title deed.
- Receive Digital Title Deed: Once processed, the DLD will send a link to your title deed via email, allowing you to access and download it online.
Main Differences Between Oqood vs. Title Deed
When comparing Oqood vs.Title Deed, it’s important to understand that each document has a unique role in the property ownership process.
| Feature | Oqood | Title Deed |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Pre-registration for off-plan properties | Final ownership proof |
| Issued by | Dubai Land Department (DLD) | Dubai Land Department (DLD) |
| When Issued | During the construction phase | After property completion |
| Transferability | Limited transfer; requires developer involvement | Fully transferable |
| Legal Status | Preliminary recognition | Conclusive proof of ownership |
Oqood vs. Pre-Title Deed
Oqood is a pre-registration document issued by the Dubai Land Department for off-plan properties, confirming the buyer’s purchase during construction. A pre-title deed is a temporary document showing that ownership is almost finalized, just before the final title deed is issued.
Oqood and Title Deed Costs
The costs associated with obtaining both documents differ:
- Oqood Fees: These are typically part of your purchase price and include the initial registration costs. The fees are generally lower compared to title deed fees.
- Title Deed Fees: Title deed fees are paid at the time of property handover and include transfer fees and other administrative costs. These fees may vary depending on the property’s value and other factors.
FAQs
1. Who Issues Title Deeds?
The Dubai Land Department (DLD) issues Title deeds, which manage land and property records in Dubai. Once your property is finished and all conditions are met, the DLD will issue a title deed in your name, giving you full ownership rights.
2. Why Oqood and Title Deed Documents are important?
Oqood certificate and Title Deed are very important in Dubai’s property market. Without proper documentation, your rights as a property buyer are at risk. For example:
- Reselling or Mortgaging: You cannot resell, lease, or mortgage your property without a title deed.
- Legal and Financial Security: The Oqood certificate provides a safety net during construction, while the title deed offers long-term security.
Conclusion
Navigating Dubai’s property market involves understanding key documents like Oqood and Title Deed. The Oqood certificate protects your rights during construction, while the title deed grants you full ownership once the property is ready. Time Homes Real Estate is here to guide you if you’re considering buying, selling, or investing in the UAE’s real estate market. Our expert agents provide a stress-free experience.
If you are looking for more insights into UAE’s dynamic real estate market, you can explore Time Homes Real Estate’s blog for the latest trends, guides, and expert tips.
