When purchasing an off-plan property in Dubai, it’s important to know which documents you receive and when. These documents protect your ownership rights and outline your legal position throughout the construction process.
1. Oqood Certificate
As soon as you sign the Sales Purchase Agreement (SPA), you will receive an Oqood Certificate. This certificate is issued by the Dubai Land Department (DLD) and registers your ownership of the property in their system. The Oqood certificate is specific to off-plan properties and confirms that the property is allocated to you, even while construction is still ongoing.
2. Title Deed
The title deed is issued once the construction of your property is completed, you have made full payment, and ownership is officially transferred to you. The title deed provides full legal ownership of the property.
Understanding the Difference
• Oqood Certificate: Confirms your ownership in the DLD system during construction. It does not transfer full legal ownership.
• Title Deed: Confirms full legal ownership after construction is complete and all payments are made.
Selling Off-Plan Properties
It is possible to sell an off-plan property before receiving the title deed. In this case, the Oqood certificate would typically be transferred to the new buyer, and the title deed will be issued to them once construction is complete.