Dubai Land Department, Dubai Awqaf partner to strengthen foundation's real estate portfolio
The memorandum was signed at DLD headquarters by Majid Al Marri, CEO of the Real Estate Registration Sector, and Khalid Al Thani, Deputy Secretary-General of Awqaf Dubai, alongside other senior officials.
The collaboration aims to evaluate and reclassify Awqaf Dubai's properties based on DLD's approved standards, upgrading assets following improvements. The agreement also enables inquiry services for lands and properties belonging to deceased individuals, minors, and those under similar legal status, with full access to supporting documentation.
Al Marri said the initiative supports Dubai's vision to become a global benchmark in real estate management, including endowment property management. 'We aim to enhance property competitiveness and introduce efficient, transparent mechanisms for managing assets held by deceased individuals and minors. This reflects our commitment to innovation and government integration, aligned with Dubai's long-term economic and sustainability goals,' he added.
Al Thani noted the collaboration underscores Awqaf Dubai's dedication to strategic partnerships that promote inclusivity and sustainable asset management. He said the classification system will enable the foundation to better assess and upgrade its buildings, ensuring optimal returns in support of endowers and minors.
The partnership will also establish a shared system for accessing endowment property data and processing requests, further enhancing service quality.
DLD's Building Classification Project applies five key criteria: engineering and technical standards, sustainability, documentation, health and safety, and management and finance. Properties are rated from 1 to 4 stars, with a 4+ rating for top-performing green buildings. Factors such as maintenance quality, air conditioning, elevators, parking and façade condition are also evaluated.
The project delivers proactive solutions for real estate stakeholders, benefiting investors, owners, tenants, developers, and both government and private sector entities.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Gulf Business
18 hours ago
- Gulf Business
From bricks to blockchain: Perspectives on Dubai's real estate revolution
Images: Supplied Real estate tokenisation is no longer a concept of the future — it's a fast-unfolding reality, and Dubai is at the forefront. As the emirate pilots regulated models and integrates blockchain infrastructure into government systems, tokenisation is reshaping ownership, access, and investment. From luxury properties on Palm Jumeirah to institutional-grade smart contracts, this evolution is creating a more accessible, liquid and tech-enabled marketplace. Below, key voices shaping the property landscape share their perspectives on how tokenisation is transforming the industry. Yogesh Bulchandani , CEO, Sunrise Capital Tokenisation has the potential to democratise real estate by enabling fractional ownership, making high-value assets accessible to a broader base of investors. It directly addresses two longstanding barriers in the sector: liquidity and transparency. With the global tokenised real estate market valued at $3.5bn in 2024 and forecasted to reach $19.4bn by 2033, the shift is already well underway. The UAE is taking clear strides in this direction, with active pilots from the Dubai Land Department, the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority, and the Central Bank. For adoption to accelerate, we need clearer legal frameworks around smart contracts, greater system interoperability, and robust investor education. Hospitality assets and branded residences are proving the most popular for tokenised and fractional ownership, largely thanks to their dependable income potential and strong brand equity. We are also seeing increased interest in luxury residential units, driven by their asset appreciation and global demand. For developers, tokenisation unlocks new capital channels, accelerates presales, and improves liquidity. For investors, the appeal lies in lower entry points, diversification, and the ability to trade shares — benefits that traditional real estate often lacks. In Dubai alone, tokenised real estate transactions reached $399m in H1 2025. We're piloting smart contracts for escrow handling, rental flows, and milestone-based payments. The primary challenge remains legal enforceability under UAE civil law, which currently views smart contracts as auxiliary agreements. Developers and proptech firms are increasingly collaborating to build tokenised platforms, with joint ventures forming and platforms like Zeeshaan Shah , c hairman, One Group and founder of ELEVATE We've seen tokenised real estate gain serious traction across the UK and Europe, driven by a broader wave of innovation powered by AI, blockchain, and advanced proptech platforms. The UAE, with its investor-friendly climate, tech-forward mindset, and appetite for disruption, is a ripe market to take this on. But for tokenisation to move from hype to tangible impact, what's crucial is the creation of a robust, integrated ecosystem — legal, digital, and financial. Dubai, in particular, has the infrastructure and ambition to not just adopt these technologies, but to lead the region — and possibly the world — in setting the benchmark. Veer Doshi , MD and CEO, Vincitore Real Estate Development Over the next decade, tokenisation will unlock unprecedented access, liquidity, and global reach — just as Dubai has pioneered through the DLD–VARA pilot and REES sandbox in 2025. It will energise secondary markets, streamline off-plan financing, and elevate fractional investing from novelty to mainstream—helping Dubai secure a projected $16bn tokenised market by 2033. As a forward-looking developer, we're evaluating how these innovations can integrate with our vision of redefining luxury living through architecture, technology, wellness, and financial accessibility. The UAE is uniquely positioned to lead the global shift to tokenised real estate—especially in the luxury segment, where innovation and trust are critical. But for tokenisation to become mainstream, three pillars must align: regulatory clarity, investor readiness, and seamless tech-legal integration. When smart contracts operate within a trusted framework, tokenised ownership won't just be possible — it will be inevitable. For developers, tokenisation provides access to global capital while preserving brand equity. For investors, it offers flexible entry, transparency, and liquidity, redefining real estate as an agile, intelligent asset class aligned with Dubai's future. Developer–proptech collaboration is shifting from experimentation to execution. Together, they're building asset-backed ecosystems merging compliance, liquidity, and user experience. A common misconception is that tokenisation guarantees fast capital and instant liquidity. But the reality is that it demands greater transparency, legal structure, and discipline. Dubai isn't waiting for global frameworks, it's setting them. With initiatives like VARA's Rulebook 2.0 and DLD's regulatory sandbox, the Gulf is fast becoming the global benchmark for tokenised real estate. Imran Khan, f ounder and CEO, PIXL Global | Invespy In the UAE, we're building the rails for a smarter property market, and tokenisation is a cornerstone. But proptech isn't just about the tech — it's about trust. While the success of the latest initiative by DLD, which sold out in under two minutes, is a powerful signal of what's possible. Standardisation, cybersecurity, and user experience will be key in driving adoption. This is the future of UAE real estate, and there's no better place than Dubai to lead it — the city has always had a remarkable ability to embrace and scale game-changing innovations. Kalpesh Kinariwala founder, Pantheon Development Tokenisation is a seismic shift in the luxury real estate landscape. Over the next five to ten years, this technology will lower investment barriers and enable fractional ownership of high-value assets. By leveraging blockchain's security and transparency, tokenisation will democratise access to premium properties, attract new classes of investors, and create a more liquid, globally connected market. We are confident that tokenisation will become mainstream in the UAE, thanks to the region's forward-thinking regulatory initiatives and robust appetite for technological innovation. Our advanced R&D investments affirm our commitment to supporting and shaping this evolution into a secure, scalable investment ecosystem. Today, Dubai has become a hotbed for fractional ownership of high-end properties. The Dubai Land Department, in partnership with the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority and Dubai Future Foundation, launched a regulated tokenisation pilot this year — opening access to premium properties in areas like Palm Jumeirah, Downtown, and Emirates Hills. According to a 2025 report by Dubai's Department of Economy and Tourism, tokenised residential assets are forecast to represent Dhs60bn in transactions by 2033, accounting for approximately 7 per cent of the emirate's real estate market. This growth is being driven by both local and foreign retail investors entering with as little as Dhs 500, gaining exposure to assets previously reserved for the ultra-wealthy. Commercial and mixed-use properties are also steadily gaining traction in the tokenisation ecosystem. Office buildings, retail strips, and multi-purpose developments are being fractionalised primarily for their predictable rental yields and long-term tenant contracts. Developers are leveraging tokenisation not only as a sales tool, but also as a financing mechanism — avoiding traditional debt structures. Shabana Farooq , m anaging partner and COO, URBAN Properties Innovation has always been at the heart of the real estate industry, from how we list and market properties to how we close deals and build client relationships. Tokenisation is the next evolution in that journey. We're constantly seeking smarter, faster, and more transparent ways to connect buyers with the right opportunities — and this technology allows us to do just that. It opens the door to a wider investor pool, fractional ownership models, and quicker transactions. Ultimately, it's about making real estate more accessible and engaging for today's digital-first customer. It won't replace the human element, but it will definitely enhance how we sell, communicate, and deliver value. Rakesh Mirchandani co-founder of RRS International Development and partner at RRS Capital ManagementProperties With Dubai leading as the first emirate to regulate real estate tokenisation, we're entering a new era of property investment. It offers a more accessible, hassle-free way to own and manage real estate — perfect for Gen Z, Gen Alpha and all those who prefer digital, blockchain-enabled solutions. Investors can start from just Dhs2,000 (approx. $545) and still proudly hold real estate while diversifying across other asset classes. While the concept is still new and comes with a learning curve, the benefits for both sides— greater transparency, global liquidity, and ease of ownership — make it an exciting and strong option, even for cautious investors and those who are traditionally risk averse. As this ecosystem grows we will educate ourselves to invest better. Captain Pradeep Singh , founder, Karma Developers Tokenisation will democratise real estate by enabling fractional ownership, increasing liquidity, and opening access to global investors. Given the right regulatory framework, we can expect it to evolve from a niche innovation to a mainstream investment vehicle — much like how REITs reshaped real estate decades ago. The UAE is already laying the groundwork, from the Dubai Land Department's pilot tokenisation project to VARA's regulatory frameworks. For tokenisation to scale, continued enhancements in regulatory clarity will further accelerate adoption, along with robust secondary markets and greater education among traditional stakeholders. So far, high-value residential and hospitality assets are leading the charge. There's growing interest in branded residences and lifestyle-led developments for tokenisation, particularly among younger, tech-savvy investors. However, as tokenisation becomes more mainstream than novelty, efficiencies would result in assets with good rental returns having higher trading volumes. For developers, tokenisation unlocks faster access to capital and broadens the investor base. For investors, it offers lower entry points, enhanced liquidity, and real-time transparency. We are still in the process of evaluating and understanding the advantages and challenges of smart contracts. Globally, one of the key challenges remains the lack of universal legal recognition — many jurisdictions don't treat them as fully enforceable contracts. Traditional agreements benefit from established legal frameworks, while smart contracts rely solely on code, which can be prone to errors with significant consequences. That said, smart contracts in Dubai's real estate sector offer significant potential for automation, transparency, and cost efficiency. However, as mentioned, adoption is in early stages and largely concentrated in tech-forward projects. Widespread implementation will depend on regulatory updates, increased stakeholder awareness, and seamless integration with DLD and other official platforms. The Gulf — and Dubai in particular — is leading the region in embracing tokenisation. Initiatives like the DLD's Real Estate Evolution Space and Riz Ahmed CEO, SmartCrowd In the next five to 10 years, real estate will exist as on-chain tokens backed by income-generating assets — programmable, tradable, and transparent. At SmartCrowd, we laid the foundation for this transformation through fractional ownership. Tokenisation builds on that, embedding real estate into blockchain to create digital assets that can be traded in real time, with smart contracts automating governance, compliance, and distribution. Unlike traditional platforms, settlement can now happen in minutes, not months. Dubai is no longer experimenting—it's implementing. With the Dubai Land Department issuing Tokenisation Certificates and VARA regulating virtual assets, the infrastructure is validated and government-backed. This is not just a tech innovation; it's an institutional-grade investment channel. Tokenisation will go mainstream not because it's trendy, but because it's better, merging the transparency of blockchain, the flexibility of fintech, and the legal robustness of traditional real estate. That said, education is key. Many still confuse tokenised real estate with crypto speculation. In reality, it's underpinned by tangible, income-producing assets with regulatory oversight. The idea that it's unregulated or untested couldn't be further from the truth — platforms like ours have proven the model works. Secondary residential properties are currently the most viable asset class due to title clarity, income track record, and regulatory ease. The biggest draw for developers is liquidity — tokenisation unlocks faster access to capital and reduces reliance on institutional buyers. For investors, it offers lower entry points, transparency, and the potential for real-time exits. What's needed next is deeper integration with mainstream finance apps, broader institutional participation, and continued regulatory collaboration. The UAE is setting the global playbook for tokenised real estate, and we're proud to help drive that change from the ground up. Looking ahead As the UAE cements its position as a global innovator in tokenised real estate, the road ahead lies in scaling adoption through education, regulation, and trust. With the right framework, what began as a tech-forward experiment could soon redefine the core of property ownership, investment, and access — not just in Dubai, but worldwide.
Gulf Today
a day ago
- Gulf Today
Why UAE real estate remains a top safe investment in 2025
Despite ongoing global uncertainty, UAE real estate continues to demonstrate resilience and attract serious investor attention in 2025. Backed by transparent laws, a growing economy, and attractive visa-linked incentives, the market stands out as one of the most secure places to invest this year. Primo Capital's latest report highlights why the country's property sector remains a stable and rewarding choice for long-term investment. UAE: A Stable UAE Market for Safe Investment With over AED 260 billion in transactions recorded by the Dubai Land Department in the first half of 2025, investor confidence in the market remains strong. According to Primo Capital, consistent demand across areas like Dubai Marina, Downtown Dubai, and Dubai South is keeping prices stable and returns solid. This level of activity reflects growing global interest in finding UAE properties in a market known for its transparency and growth. From upscale waterfront homes in Abu Dhabi to luxury properties for sale in Dubai , the 2025 inventory offers options for all budgets. Analysts further credit this to the UAE property market stability 2025 , where effective government policies and on-time project deliveries have reinforced trust in both local and international buyers. The UAE also ranks high among the safest real estate markets in UAE, thanks to clear ownership laws, digital transaction processes, and escrow-backed off-plan purchases that protect investors at every step. UAE's Visa Benefits and Tax-Free Gains What further cements investor interest is the country's generous Golden Visa policy. Those investing AED 2 million or more in real estate can qualify for a 10-year residency visa—an added benefit that's attracting buyers from Europe, India, and Russia alike. Additionally, the tax-free property investment UAE policy continues to be a major draw. No capital gains tax, no annual property tax, and no income tax on rental returns give investors a clean, predictable financial outcome—rare in today's global property markets. As more people look toward investment in 2025 in UAE , working with a trusted real estate company in Dubai like Primo Capital can help investors navigate this strong but competitive market with tailored strategies and project insights. Conclusion In 2025, UAE real estate holds its ground as one of the most secure and appealing investment options globally. With strong market fundamentals, investor-friendly policies, and a wide range of visa and income benefits, the country offers both short-term gains and long-term security. For those ready to commit, the UAE remains a smart and stable choice in an uncertain world.
Zawya
2 days ago
- Zawya
Dubai Land Department partners with Second Century Ventures to launch real estate accelerator
First cohort members to receive up to $1.5 million in funding Dubai, United Arab Emirates: Dubai Land Department (DLD) is partnering with Second Century Ventures to launch the REACH Middle East accelerator program and has opened applications for the first cohort of companies. This landmark initiative, led by real estate technology pioneers Siddiq Farid and Karim Helal, invites startup companies from all industries to apply for the opportunity to redefine real estate innovation across the region. REACH Middle East is a curated, eight-month program designed to empower up to 10 high-potential startups with the tools, mentorship and networks needed to scale locally and globally within the real estate industry. Selected companies will benefit from: Direct Funding and Investment: REACH provides up to $250,000 seed capital per company, strategic investor introductions and pathways for follow-on funding Real World Access: Work with major real estate developers, government bodies and facility managers to pilot and commercialize solutions Expert-Led Mentorship: Learn from industry veterans, successful founders and global thought leaders in PropTech Growth Opportunities: Unlock curated connections at major industry events, conferences and trade shows to drive market adoption Global Expansion: Plug into REACH's exclusive global network of over 330 alumni companies Aligned with the UAE Digital Economy Strategy, Dubai Economic Agenda D33 and the Dubai Real Estate Sector Strategy 2033 – which aim to add more than $27 billion to the economy – REACH Middle East supports the digital transformation of real estate and urban development. It complements other UAE accelerators, such as Abu Dhabi's Hub71 and regional initiatives under the Saudi Real Estate Development Fund and NEOM Innovation Hub that align with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030. By fostering public-private partnerships, REACH Middle East aims to position the region as a global hub for innovation in the real estate ecosystem. REACH is backed by Second Century Ventures, the most active global fund in real estate technology. As the strategic investment arm of the National Association of Realtors®, SCV leverages the association's members and an unparalleled network of executives within real estate and adjacent industries. 'We are proud to collaborate with REACH Middle East to unlock the potential of real estate tech startups across the region. With Dubai as the starting point, this accelerator will provide unparalleled support to entrepreneurs, fostering solutions that resonate throughout the Middle East and contribute to the global real estate ecosystem,' said Dr. Mahmoud AlBurai, Head of Policies and Innovation at Dubai Land Department. 'The MENA region is at the forefront of real estate innovation, and REACH Middle East is committed to empowering startups to solve real-world challenges. Our program bridges cutting-edge technology with practical real estate applications, driving sustainable growth for startups and the industry alike,' added Siddiq Farid, Managing Director of REACH Middle East. 'REACH offers a unique opportunity for startups to be part of a transformative ecosystem. We encourage ambitious startups to apply to join the next generation of PropTech trailblazers and help shape the future of real estate in the MENA region and beyond,' said Dave Garland, Managing Partner at Second Century Ventures. REACH Middle East seeks revenue-generating startups (seed to Series A) intent on expanding into the real estate, construction, sustainability, or property management ecosystem using emerging technologies like AI, IoT, or blockchain with scalable business models with local and global potential. Applications are now open and can be submitted at About REACH REACH is a unique technology scale-up program created by Second Century Ventures, the most active global fund in real estate technology. Backed by the National Association of Realtors®, REACH leverages the association's membership and an unparalleled network of executives within real estate and adjacent industries. The REACH program helps technology companies scale across the real estate vertical and its adjacent markets through education, mentorship, and market exposure. About the National Association of Realtors® The National Association of Realtors® is involved in all aspects of residential and commercial real estate. The term Realtor® is a registered collective membership mark that identifies a real estate professional who is a member of the National Association of Realtors® and subscribes to its strict Code of Ethics. For free consumer guides about navigating the homebuying and selling transaction processes – from written buyer agreements to negotiating compensation visit For media enquiries, contact: Jonathan Ivan-Duke Partner, duke+mir jon@ +971582857333
