The real estate market in Dubai is among the most prestigious globally, offering a seamless property buying process. However, potential investors should be aware of key elements to ensure a smooth transaction. One crucial aspect is understanding title deeds in Dubai. Here’s everything buyers need to know about these essential property ownership documents.

What Are Title Deeds in Dubai?

A title deed is a legal document that verifies ownership of a property, granting the owner the right to use, lease, or rent the property. If you’ve paid for the property in full, the title deed will be under your name. For those using a mortgage, the original deed is held by the lender or bank until the loan is fully repaid, with a copy provided to the owner.

Key Details Found in a Title Deed

Title deeds in Dubai contain important information, including:

• Plot number
• Municipality number
• Issue date
• Property type
• Building number (for apartments)
• Mortgage status (if applicable)
• Property size
• Purchase value
• QR code

Types of Title Deeds in Dubai

Dubai offers two main types of title deeds:

Freehold Title Deeds

Foreigners can purchase properties in designated freehold areas such as Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Marina, and Emirates Hills. A freehold title deed grants full ownership of the property and the land it’s built on.

• Oqood: For off-plan freehold properties, Oqood is an online service by the Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA) for managing contracts between buyers and developers.
• Regular Deed: Issued when purchasing a property immediately.
• Fractional Title Deed: Provided for buyers purchasing a fraction of a unit.

All property records, including title deeds, are managed by the Dubai Land Department (DLD).

Leasehold Title Deeds

Leasehold properties grant ownership for a limited period, typically 99 years, while the land remains with the government or developer. After the lease period, ownership reverts to the freeholder.

Transferring Title Deeds in Dubai

To transfer property ownership, visit the Dubai Land Department’s main headquarters. The official service for this process is called the “Request for Transfer of Ownership.”

Required Documents

• Copy of the owner’s valid passport (for non-residents)
• Transferor’s letter
• Power of Attorney or UAE ID of the owner
• Trade licenses for companies

Transfer Process

1. Visit the DLD’s Customer Happiness Centre on Baniyas Road.
2. Submit the necessary documents.
3. Wait for data entry.
4. Pay the required fees and receive a receipt.
5. An employee verifies the transaction data.

Upon successful completion, you will receive a digital version of your title deed and blueprint via email.

Fees for Title Deed Transfer

• Floorplan (villa or apartment): AED 250
• Issuance of certificate of title deed: AED 250
• Plot map for land outside Dubai Municipality: AED 100
• Land map for combined map with Dubai Municipality: AED 225
• Knowledge fee: AED 10
• Innovation fee: AED 10

Payments can be made via cash, check, credit card, or ePay.

How to Verify a Title Deed

You can verify a title deed online using the Dubai Rest app or through the Dubai Land Department’s official website.

FAQs About Title Deeds in Dubai

How long does the title transfer take?

The title deed transfer process takes about 25 to 30 minutes, with a unique title deed number assigned to the property.

What is the difference between leasehold and freehold properties?

Leasehold properties offer ownership for a fixed term, while freehold properties provide absolute ownership. Consider these differences when choosing between leasehold and freehold properties in Dubai.

What is Ejari?

Ejari is a government system in Dubai that regulates and registers all rental contracts, created by the Dubai Land Department (DLD). Its main functions are to:

1. Register Rental Contracts: Entering details of the contract and parties involved.
2. Issue Rental Certificates: Providing an official certificate as legal proof of the rental agreement.
3. Facilitate Disputes: Helping resolve potential disputes with registered contract details.

Benefits of Ejari:

• Transparency: Increases transparency in rental transactions.
• Protection of Rights: Ensures the rights of both landlords and tenants.
• Easy Access: Allows easy access to contract information and rental certificates.

Landlords and tenants can use the Ejari system online or at DLD customer service centers to ensure their rental agreements are legally recorded and protected.