If you’re buying property in Dubai, especially for the first time, you’re bound to come across two terms that sound pretty similar but mean very different things: Title Deed and Oqood. Both relate to ownership, but they serve very different purposes depending on where you are in your property journey.
Understanding the difference between title deed and oqood can save you a lot of confusion (and possibly money), so let’s break it down in a way that actually makes sense.
What Is a Title Deed?
A Title Deed is the official document that proves you’re the legal owner of a property in Dubai. It’s issued by the Dubai Land Department (DLD) once the property is complete, handed over and registered in your name.
So, if you’ve bought a completed property and everything is finalized, you’ll get a title deed. This document gives you the full legal right to sell, lease or mortgage the property.
Key Highlights:
- Issued for completed properties
- Confirms 100% legal ownership
- Comes with a unique property ID
- Registered directly with the Dubai Land Department
- Needed for resale, leasing or property financing
What Is an Oqood?
Oqood, which means “contract” in Arabic, is more of a temporary registration. It’s issued by RERA (Real Estate Regulatory Agency) for off-plan properties (properties still under construction).
When you buy off-plan, Oqood acts like a placeholder. It confirms that you’ve legally purchased an off-plan property and that your rights are protected while it’s being built. But it’s not full ownership yet.
Here’s what to know:
- Used for off-plan properties
- Acts as preliminary ownership proof
- Registered by the developer or buyer
- Needed if you plan to resell before completion
- Ensures transparency and legal protection during construction
Title Deed vs. Oqood: What’s the Difference?
Let’s make it easy with a side-by-side comparison:
| Feature | Title Deed | Oqood |
| Applies to | Completed properties | Off-plan properties |
| Issued by | Dubai Land Department (DLD) | RERA via DLD’s Oqood system |
| Ownership status | Full legal ownership | Preliminary/interim ownership |
| Transferable? | Yes, without restrictions | Yes, but may need developer approval |
| Legal status | Permanent | Temporary until handover |
In simple terms, Oqood is where your ownership journey starts, and Title Deed is where it becomes official.
Why Does the Difference Matter?
In a city like Dubai where off-plan properties are incredibly popular, knowing the difference between Oqood vs. Title Deed is a must.
- Buying off-plan? Make sure your developer registers your Oqood so you’re protected.
- Want to resell before handover? You’ll need that Oqood in place.
- Taking possession of the property? You’ll need to convert your Oqood to a Title Deed to gain full ownership rights.
How to Register
For Oqood:
Usually, the developer handles it, but you can also take charge yourself via the DLD REST App or by visiting an approved real estate services center in Dubai.
For Title Deed:
Once the project is handed over, submit the necessary documents to the Dubai Land Department, pay the 4% registration fee and you’ll receive your official title deed.
In a fast-paced market like Dubai, where new developments pop up like clockwork, it’s easy to get swept up in the excitement. But understanding title deed vs. oqood is essential if you want to protect your investment and make confident decisions.
Get in touch with our team at Luxfolio Real Estate. We’ll walk you through every step of the property transaction process in Dubai.