RERA, DLD, Oqood, Ejari: who does what in Dubai real estate

The vocabulary of Emirati real estate can be confusing. Here are the main players and registers, and the role each one plays.

The Dubai Land Department (DLD)

This is the authority that registers real estate transactions in Dubai. Every purchase, sale or transfer of ownership is recorded with it. It is also to the DLD that the 4% registration fee is owed.

RERA: the regulator

The Real Estate Regulatory Agency is the sector's regulator, attached to the DLD. It oversees developers, agencies and brokers, supervises project escrow accounts and publishes indices, notably for rents and service charges.

Oqood: the off-plan sales register

Every sale of a property under construction is recorded in the "Oqood" system. This registration protects the buyer, since it makes their contract enforceable and tracks payments made.

Ejari: lease registration

Every tenancy contract must be registered in the "Ejari" system. It is required to connect water and electricity, obtain a housing-related visa, and assert one's rights in case of a dispute.

The trustee office

For a resale, the transfer of ownership takes place at an approved office, which checks documents, collects funds and signs off the transfer with the seller and buyer.

The escrow account

Every off-plan project has a dedicated account, which receives buyers' payments and is only released according to the progress of construction.

The advertising permit

A property listing in Dubai must be linked to a permit number issued by the authorities. A property advertised without a number or without compliance should raise a red flag.

Why all this matters

These registers and institutions organise a transparent, regulated market. Knowing who is involved, and which document proves what, allows every step to be checked and any anomalies spotted.

To review your project and check the conditions currently in force, book an appointment with Arzouni Properties.