An Oqood is the official initial property registration document issued by the Land Department (such as the DLD in Dubai) for off-plan properties that are still under construction. Following the removal of the 50% upfront payment rule and construction milestone restrictions, the Oqood—combined with the developer’s contract—serves as the primary evidence that your committed investment meets the AED 2,000,000 threshold.
Quick Summary
- Primary Use: Proof of property registration, total purchase value, and developer contract validity for under-construction units.
- Issuing Authority: Dubai Land Department (DLD) or the respective Land Department of each Emirate.
- Requirement: The contract must reflect a total valuation/purchase price of at least AED 2 million, regardless of the current construction stage.
Shift in Milestone Rules (Before vs. Now)
- The Past Framework: Historically, developers and immigration authorities enforced strict completion milestones. Investors routinely had to wait until construction reached 40% to 50% completion, or until 50% of the total cash value was paid out, before the file could be approved for residency.
- The Current 2026 Framework: Construction milestones have been unlinked from visa eligibility. Investors can now apply for the Golden Visa immediately upon signing the sales agreement and registering the Oqood, provided the contract value reaches AED 2 million.
The Fine Print (What You Need to Know)
- The Developer Statement: While construction progress is no longer a barrier, you must submit an official statement or No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the developer. This letter must verify the payment plan schedule, total contract amount, and confirm the account is in good standing.
- Escrow Account Verification: The off-plan purchase must be tied to a government-approved escrow account. Authorities will cross-reference your Oqood against active project registries to ensure the developer is legally compliant.
- Linked Payment Plans: If you are utilizing a 20/80 or 30/70 payment plan, you qualify for the visa immediately based on the final contract value, not the initial 20% or 30% down payment.
- Delayed Projects: If a project faces government-ordered suspension or severe delays, the Oqood’s validity for visa renewals may be re-evaluated by the Land Department until the project is reassigned or resumed.
Common Questions
- Can I apply for a Golden Visa on Day 1 of signing an off-plan contract? Yes. As soon as the developer registers the transaction and issues the Oqood with a purchase price of AED 2 million or more, you are eligible to initiate the visa process.
- What happens when the off-plan property is completed? Once the developer hands over the property, your Oqood is cancelled, and the DLD issues a Final Title Deed. You must update your visa records with this new deed during your next renewal cycle.
- Can I combine multiple off-plan properties? Yes. You can combine multiple Oqood certificates (e.g., two off-plan studio apartments worth AED 1 million each) to achieve the cumulative AED 2 million requirement.