What is Oqood?
Oqood (Arabic for "contracts") is the Dubai Land Department's interim register for off-plan property sales. It was set up under Law No. 13 of 2008. Every off-plan sale must be registered on Oqood. Once registered, the buyer receives an Oqood certificate as initial proof of ownership. (Sotheby's Realty)
Key facts
| Who registers it | The developer |
|---|---|
| Registration fee | 4% of the purchase price, plus admin fees |
| Who usually pays | The buyer, unless the developer offers a fee waiver |
| What it protects | Your contract is recorded against the unit, so it cannot be sold twice |
| When it ends | At handover, when the Oqood is converted into a title deed |
Why Oqood matters
- Proof of your contract. Your purchase is recorded with the DLD, not just in the developer's files.
- Resale and mortgages. You generally cannot resell, assign or mortgage an off-plan unit without Oqood registration.
- Dispute protection. If the developer delays, cancels or tries to resell your unit, a registered Oqood strengthens your position.
How to check your Oqood
- Ask your developer for your Oqood certificate after you sign the SPA and pay the registration fee.
- Check the registration on the Dubai REST app or the DLD website.
- Confirm your name, unit number, area and price match your SPA.
Oqood problems we help with
- Developer hasn't registered your purchase
- Errors on the Oqood certificate
- Developer attempting to cancel your contract or resell your unit
- Assigning your off-plan unit to a new buyer
- Refund claims when a project is delayed or cancelled
Frequently asked questions
Is the Oqood fee refundable if I cancel?
Generally no. The registration fee is a government fee and is not usually refunded if you withdraw.
What's the difference between Oqood and a title deed?
Oqood records an off-plan purchase before completion. The title deed is issued once the property is complete and handed over. Title deed guide →
Does Oqood apply outside Dubai?
No. Other emirates have their own systems. Abu Dhabi, for example, uses DARI.
Off-plan concern? Call +971 50 423 1108 or send us your SPA for review.