Title Deed Transfer Process in Dubai: A Complete Guide

Transferring property ownership in Dubai requires a Title Deed transfer through the Dubai Land Department (DLD). Whether you are buying a property, inheriting real estate, or receiving a gift transfer, understanding the legal steps is essential to ensure a smooth, legally valid transaction.

This guide covers the entire Title Deed transfer process in Dubai, including required documents, costs, and legal requirements for Properties for Sale in Dubai, Apartments for Rent in Dubai, Villas for Sale in Dubai, and other property types.

1. What is a Title Deed in Dubai?

A Title Deed is the official legal document issued by the Dubai Land Department (DLD) that certifies the ownership of a freehold or leasehold property in Dubai. It is required for:

Buying or selling Luxury Properties in Dubai
Off-Plan Properties in Dubai upon completion
Townhouses for Sale in Dubai and other residential units
Commercial Properties in Dubai, including offices and retail spaces

🔗 Dubai Land Department (DLD) Services

2. When is a Title Deed Transfer Required?

A Title Deed transfer is required in the following situations:

✔ Property Sale & Purchase: When buying property from an individual seller or developer.
✔ Mortgage Settlement: When clearing a mortgage or transferring ownership with a mortgage.
✔ Inheritance Transfer: If the property is inherited by a legal heir.
✔ Gift (Hiba) Transfer: When a property is gifted to a first-degree relative.
✔ Company Ownership Transfer: When property ownership is transferred under a corporate entity.

🔗 Dubai Property Transfer Laws

3. Title Deed Transfer Process for Different Property Types

A. Freehold Property Transfer

For freehold properties, the process applies to:

Dubai Marina Apartments for Sale
Townhouses for Sale in Dubai
Luxury Properties in Dubai

Steps:

Sign a Sales Agreement: Buyer and seller sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) at a registered real estate agent’s office.
Obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC): Issued by the property developer confirming no pending payments.
Pay the Transfer Fees: Pay the DLD transfer fee (4% of the property price).
Submit Required Documents: Include Emirates ID, passport, and proof of payment.
Attend the Transfer Appointment at DLD: Buyer and seller finalize the transaction at the DLD trustee office.
Receive the New Title Deed: The buyer is issued the new Title Deed after the transfer is complete.

🔗 Freehold vs Leasehold Properties in Dubai

B. Mortgage Property Transfer

If a property has an existing mortgage, additional steps are required:

Mortgage Clearance: Seller must pay off the mortgage before transfer.
Bank Approval: Buyer’s bank must approve the transfer if they are using a new mortgage.
DLD Registration: After bank clearance, the DLD issues a new Title Deed.

🔗 Mortgage Options in Dubai

C. Gift (Hiba) Transfer Process

A property can be gifted to first-degree relatives, such as parents, children, or spouses.

Steps for Gift Transfers:

Obtain a Legal Valuation Report: The property must be valued by the DLD.
Submit Gift Transfer Application: Includes Emirates ID, passport, and proof of relationship.
Pay Transfer Fee (0.125% of Property Value)
Register the Gift Transfer at DLD

🔗 Dubai Land Department Gift Transfer Rules

D. Inheritance Transfer

For inheritance cases, property ownership is transferred based on:

Sharia Law (if no registered will exists).
DIFC Will (for non-Muslim expats who have registered a will in DIFC).

🔗 Inheritance Laws for Expats in UAE Real Estate

4. Documents Required for Title Deed Transfer

🔗 How to Buy Property in Dubai as an Expat

5. Title Deed Transfer Fees & Costs in Dubai

Dubai Land Department (DLD) Fees

🔗 Dubai Property Transaction Fees

6. Where to Complete a Title Deed Transfer in Dubai?

✔ Dubai Land Department Trustee Offices – Main authority for property title transfers.
✔ Real Estate Trustee Centers – Handle registration for off-plan and secondary market sales.
✔ DIFC Wills & Probate Registry – Required for non-Muslim inheritance transfers.
✔ Online via DLD REST App – Digital property transfer services are available.

🔗 Dubai REST – Online Property Services

7. How to Verify a Title Deed in Dubai?

To verify a Title Deed:
✔ Use the Dubai REST app to check property ownership.
✔ Visit the Dubai Land Department with your Emirates ID and property details.
✔ Request a certified copy from a DLD Trustee Office.

🔗 Dubai REST Title Deed Verification

8. Get Expert Real Estate Assistance on GoDubai Portal

For secure Title Deed transfers, expert real estate advice, and Dubai property insights, use the GoDubai Portal.

✔ Access a complete database of off-plan and ready properties.
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🔗 Subscribe to GoDubai Portal for premium real estate insights.

Conclusion

The Title Deed transfer process in Dubai involves multiple steps, including documentation, legal verification, and payment of transfer fees. Whether you are buying a new home, transferring property as a gift, or inheriting a real estate asset, following the correct process ensures a smooth and legally compliant transaction.

Would you like assistance with Title Deed transfer in Dubai? Get expert guidance today!