From Intent to Keys: What Dubai Buyers Should Know About Booking, Oqood & Handover
From signing to keys in hand, Dubai's off-plan property process involves Booking, Oqood registration, construction milestones, and final handover. Here's what buyers need to know to avoid delays and secure smooth ownership.
Buying off-plan property in Dubai can be a game-changing investment — but only if you understand the full journey from "intent to keys." Many buyers jump in without clarity on phases like booking, Oqood registration, payment milestones, and final handover requirements. This guide breaks down each step, so you avoid delays and make informed moves.
What Happens After You Reserve a Property in Dubai?
Once you sign the booking form and pay the token amount (usually 5-10%), the project moves into legal and regulatory registration.
Step-by-Step:
- Booking Form Signed
- Token Payment Made
- Sales & Purchase Agreement (SPA) Issued
- Oqood Registration Completed
- Construction & Progress Payments Begin
- Pre-Handover Inspection & Snagging
- Final Payment & Key Collection
What is Oqood Registration in Dubai?
Oqood is a system by the Dubai Land Department (DLD) that registers off-plan property sales. It safeguards buyer rights until the title deed is issued post-completion.
Why It Matters:
- Prevents double sales of same unit
- Legally protects buyer and developer
- Required before mortgage disbursement
TIP: Make sure your Oqood is registered early to avoid transfer issues later.
What’s in a Sales and Purchase Agreement (SPA)?
The SPA is a legally binding document between you and the developer. It outlines:
- Payment plan and schedules
- Construction timeline
- Penalties for delays
- Refund and cancellation terms
- Unit specifications and size
Always review the SPA with a legal advisor before signing.
How Do Construction Milestone Payments Work?
Dubai off-plan projects use linked payment plans. You pay in tranches based on construction progress:
- 10%: Booking
- 10–20%: Foundation Complete
- 30–40%: Structure Complete
- 10%: Pre-Handover / Snagging
- 10%: Final on Handover
NOTE: Payment timelines can vary slightly depending on the developer and project size.
What Is the Snagging & Pre-Handover Inspection Phase?
"Snagging" means inspecting the property before handover to flag any issues.
Checklist:
- Are fittings, lighting, appliances functional?
- Is flooring, tiling, and paintwork finished?
- Do smart systems function properly?
- Is the unit clean and ready-to-move?
If snags are found, the developer is legally obligated to rectify them before key handover.
What Documents Are Required for Final Handover?
Before collecting keys, you must:
- Clear all pending payments
- Submit Emirates ID & passport copy
- Show Oqood registration confirmation
- Sign handover letter
- Pay service charge deposit (if applicable)
Once cleared, you’ll get:
- Key handover document
- Temporary access card
- Title deed (post-completion, via DLD)
FAQs
1. What is the process of buying an off-plan property in Dubai?
Buying an off-plan property in Dubai involves these steps:
- Choose a RERA-approved developer
- Sign the booking form and pay a deposit
- Sign the Sales Purchase Agreement (SPA)
- Complete Oqood registration
- Make milestone-linked payments
- Inspect during snagging
- Pay final installment and collect keys
2. What is Oqood registration and why is it important in Dubai?
Oqood is the Dubai Land Department’s online system that registers off-plan property transactions. It legally protects your purchase and is required before issuing a title deed. Without Oqood, you can't mortgage the property, resell, or prove ownership until completion.
3. How long does it take to get a handover after booking a property in Dubai?
The typical time from booking to handover in Dubai is 18 to 36 months, depending on the project type and developer’s construction schedule. Payment milestones are tied to progress stages, and final handover happens once snagging is completed and all dues are cleared.
4. What documents are needed for Dubai property handover?
To receive your keys, submit:
- Emirates ID and passport copy
- Oqood registration confirmation
- Final payment receipt
- Signed handover form
- Service charge deposit (if required)
Once verified, you'll get access cards and a title deed upon full registration.
5. What happens if a Dubai developer delays the handover?
If the handover is delayed beyond the agreed SPA timeline, you may be eligible for compensation. Review your SPA for penalty clauses. You can also file a complaint with the Dubai Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) if delays are unjustified.
6. Can I resell my off-plan property before handover in Dubai?
Yes, you can resell off-plan property before handover, depending on the developer’s NOC policy. Most require 30–50% of the payment plan to be completed. Resale is subject to Oqood transfer and a DLD transfer fee.
7. What is included in the Dubai SPA (Sales and Purchase Agreement)?
The SPA outlines key property details like:
- Total price and payment schedule
- Completion date and handover terms
- Penalties for delay
- Refund clauses
- Property specifications and floor plan
It’s a legally binding contract between buyer and developer.
8. How does snagging work in Dubai real estate handovers?
Snagging is the inspection phase before handover where buyers check for defects or unfinished work. Common snags include misaligned tiles, damaged paint, or non-functional appliances. Developers must fix snags before keys are officially handed over.
9. What is the difference between a title deed and Oqood in Dubai?
Oqood is a provisional ownership certificate for off-plan properties. The title deed is the final legal ownership document issued upon project completion and full payment. Oqood transitions into a title deed via DLD once registered.
10. Can foreigners buy property in Dubai with a mortgage?
Yes, expats can buy property in Dubai using mortgages. UAE residents can get up to 80% LTV financing, while non-residents may qualify for up to 50%. A valid visa, income proof, and credit check are required.
Conclusion
The Dubai property journey doesn’t end at booking — it starts there. Understanding each step from Oqood to key handover ensures smoother, faster, and safer ownership. Whether you're buying a 1 BHK in Arjan or investing in luxury apartments across Dubai, clarity is your greatest asset.
Ready to buy off-plan with peace of mind?
Book a site tour of Bond Enclave by Pearlshire and experience smart design, flexible payments, and secure legal guidance today.
