Who is legally recognized as the property owner or landlord in Dubai?
In Dubai, the legally recognized property owner or landlord is the individual or entity whose name is registered on the title deed issued by the Dubai Land Department (DLD). The title deed is the official document that proves ownership of the property, and it is the most critical piece of documentation in property transactions within the Emirate.
Key Points About Property Ownership in Dubai:
Title Deed: The title deed, which is issued by the DLD, is the definitive proof of ownership. The person or entity named on the title deed is recognized as the legal owner and has the right to sell, lease, or otherwise manage the property.
Types of Ownership:
Freehold Ownership: In designated areas known as freehold zones, non-UAE nationals can own property outright, and their ownership is registered with the DLD. Freehold property owners have full rights to the property, including the land it is built on.
Leasehold Ownership: In other areas, ownership may be on a leasehold basis, usually for a period of 99 years. In this case, the leaseholder has rights similar to ownership for the duration of the lease, but the underlying land remains under the control of the original owner.
Legal Entities as Owners: In Dubai, both individuals and companies can own property. If the property is owned by a company, the company must be registered and licensed to operate in Dubai or be a recognized foreign entity with the appropriate permissions.
Inheritance and Transfers: Property ownership can be transferred through sale, inheritance, or gifting. In the case of inheritance, the transfer of ownership is subject to the UAE's inheritance laws, which may involve the Sharia law system for Muslim residents.
Registration with DLD: All property transactions, including sales, leases over a certain duration, and transfers of ownership, must be registered with the DLD to be legally binding. This ensures that the ownership records are kept up to date and that all legal rights are protected.
In summary, the legally recognized property owner or landlord in Dubai is the individual or entity whose name appears on the title deed registered with the Dubai Land Department. This registration process ensures the owner's rights are protected under Dubai law.
