How to Verify a Title Deed in Dubai Before You Buy

Magnifying glass over a Dubai property title deed

In a resale purchase, the title deed is the document that proves who owns the property. Most transactions in Dubai are straightforward, but fraud does happen, usually through forged documents or someone posing as the owner. Checking the deed through official channels takes minutes and should happen before any deposit changes hands.

What a Dubai title deed shows

A title deed issued by the Dubai Land Department records the owner or owners, the property details such as area, building and unit, the plot, and the size. It also carries a certificate number and a verification code. We never publish owner names or unit numbers in our marketing, and you should be careful about sharing deeds widely too.

How to verify it

Use DLD’s official verification service on the Dubai Land Department website or the Dubai REST app, entering the details or code from the deed.
Match the owner’s name on the verified record with the seller’s passport or Emirates ID.
Confirm the property details: area, building and size should match what you are being sold.
Check for mortgages: if the property is mortgaged, the bank’s liability letter will show the outstanding amount. See our upcoming guide on selling a mortgaged property.

Buyer comparing seller ID against a title deed

If someone else is selling for the owner

When a representative signs on the owner’s behalf, ask for the power of attorney and check that it specifically covers selling this property, is still valid and was properly notarised and, if issued abroad, attested. A general or expired POA is a red flag.

Warning signs

The seller refuses to let you verify the deed or meet in person.
Pressure to pay a large deposit before an MOU is signed.
Deposit requested in cash or to an account not in the owner’s name.
A price far below comparable DLD transactions with an urgent story attached.
Changes in bank details by email late in the process.

Use the proper paperwork

In Dubai, resale deals use RERA’s standard forms, including Form F, the MOU between buyer and seller. The deposit is usually held as a cheque by the broker until transfer. Our guide on the property transfer process in Dubai walks through each step.

Frequently asked questions

How can I check if a Dubai title deed is real?

Use the Dubai Land Department’s title deed verification service on its website or the Dubai REST app, and match the result with the seller’s ID.

Can I check whether a property has a mortgage?

The owner’s bank issues a liability letter showing any outstanding loan. Ask the seller for it before signing the MOU.

Is it safe to buy from someone holding a power of attorney?

It can be, provided the POA is valid, specifically covers the sale of this property and has been properly notarised and attested.

When should I verify the title deed?

Before signing the MOU and before paying any deposit.

Talk to VVS Estate

Our legal due diligence service checks ownership, encumbrances and paperwork before you commit. Contact VVS Estate.