Guide to Transfer Property From Personal Name to LLC in Dubai

You’ve purchased a property in Dubai. Congratulations - that’s a strong investment move. But now, you're thinking of making it even smarter by transferring it to your company’s name. You may have heard that holding real estate under an LLC adds a layer of privacy, legal protection, and strategic flexibility.

Is it possible? Yes. Is it smart? Absolutely.

In our previous guide, we explained in detail how to buy property under an LLC in Dubai. But what if you already own a property in your personal name and now want to move it into an LLC?

This article is for you. We’ll break down:

1. How to transfer property to LLC
2. Whether it’s allowed
3. The types of companies that can hold property in Dubai
4. The legal method to do it in Dubai (including the Hiba gift transfer option)

And most importantly - why smart investors are doing it.

Let’s walk you through the entire process in simple terms, with examples, rules, and smart tips. Ready?

Is It Allowed to Transfer a Property From a Person to an LLC in Dubai?

Yes - absolutely. As long as your company is eligible to hold real estate in Dubai, and the transfer complies with Dubai Land Department (DLD) regulations, you can transfer property ownership from your personal name to your company.

But here’s the key - you must follow the right method. And one of the most used (and legal) ways to do this in Dubai is through a process called Hiba transfer.

We’ll get to that shortly. But first…

What Kind of Companies Can Own Property in Dubai?

Not all companies can hold property. But in general, the following three types of companies can own real estate assets in approved areas of Dubai:

1. Mainland LLC / Holding Companies (Limited Liability Company)

This is the most common setup for investors and entrepreneurs. A mainland LLC registered with the Dubai Economic Department (DED) allows full flexibility and legal ownership of property in designated zones. You can trade, lease, manage assets, and - yes - hold property as a corporate asset.

2. Free Zone Companies (in Designated Free Zones)

Some free zones in Dubai (such as DIFC and DMCC) allow companies to own property within their own jurisdiction. For example, a DMCC company can own commercial space in JLT or One JLT. However, they cannot buy outside their zone unless through specific structures.

3. Offshore Companies (Registered with JAFZA)

Certain offshore companies - especially those registered in Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority (JAFZA) - are allowed to purchase real estate in freehold zones. However, offshore ownership is more restricted and mostly suited for holding assets, not for active business operations.

So, before transferring your property, make sure your company is of the right type - and properly registered.

‍

If you're not sure whether your company qualifies to hold property in Dubai, don't worry - COFTT can help. We’ll review your current license, explain your options, and even assist you in setting up a new LLC if needed - fully compliant and ready to own real estate assets. Isn’t it better to get it right from the start?

‍

What Is Hiba – And How Does It Allow You to Transfer Property to an LLC?

This is where it gets interesting.

Hiba is a legal term in UAE law that refers to a gift transfer. It can also allows a property owner to transfer real estate without a formal sale, typically to a close relative or a company in which they hold full or majority ownership.

Here’s how it works:

1. You already own the property in your name.
2. You have an LLC in which you are the 100% (or majority) shareholder.
3. You gift the property from yourself to your LLC under a Hiba transfer.
4. Isn’t that a smart legal move? You avoid a traditional sale contract and still shift the asset.

Now, before you jump in - Hiba transfers are strictly regulated by the Dubai Land Department. You must present ownership proof, a valid corporate license, and documents that prove you are the major shareholder of the receiving company.

‍

If you're unsure how to navigate this, COFTT can guide you through every step, including preparing the documents, handling translations, and coordinating with DLD.

‍

Why Transfer Property to an LLC? Here’s Why Smart Investors Do It

Many Dubai property investors choose to move their assets under an LLC — and for very good reasons. Let’s go through five of them:

1. Privacy

When a property is in your personal name, your details are visible in the DLD register. But when it's under a company, your name is not directly visible on the title deed. This is important for high-profile investors who want discretion.

2. Liability Protection

Let’s say there’s a dispute with a tenant, a damage claim, or even a lawsuit - having your asset under a company protects your personal wealth. Only the LLC is liable, not you personally.

3. Separation of Business and Personal Finances

This is very important for accounting, especially if you’re managing multiple investments. With the property held in your company’s name, you can track income, expenses, and tax obligations clearly and professionally.

4. Inheritance Planning

Instead of having to go through complex succession laws, owning property through an LLC can make inheritance smoother. You transfer company shares, not the property itself. Isn’t that brilliant estate planning?

5. Easier Property Management

Many investors use LLCs to streamline property management. The company signs contracts, hires maintenance firms, collects rent, and handles renewals. It’s clean, simple, and legally safe.

The Process to Transfer Property to LLC – Step by Step

Let’s now go through how you actually make the transfer.

Step 1: Document Screening

First, you’ll gather and submit key documents:

a. Title deed in your name
b. Your personal Emirates ID and passport
c. Your company’s trade license and MOA (Memorandum of Association)
d. Shareholder list (showing you're the owner)
e. Tenancy contract (if any)
f. NOC from mortgage provider (if property is mortgaged)

Pro Tip: At COFTT, we review every document before submission to avoid rejections.

Step 2: Apply for the Transfer at Dubai Land Department

Once your documents are in order, you (or your consultant) file the transfer application with the DLD.

DLD will:

a. Check your shareholding
b. Validate the company’s eligibility to hold real estate
c. Approve the transfer as a gift, not a sale

You’ll be asked to sign certain declarations and may need a legal translation of your company documents if not already in Arabic.

Step 3: Pay Applicable Fees and Finalize the Transfer

The fees include:

a. Transfer fee
b. Administrative charges
c. Knowledge and innovation fees
d. Typing and service charges

Once approved and paid, the DLD will issue a new title deed in the name of your company.

Just like that - your asset now belongs to your LLC.

COFTT Can Make This Entire Process Seamless for You

Whether you’re an investor with one apartment or managing a portfolio of villas, transferring your property to a company is a smart and strategic move.

But the paperwork, the legalities, the rules - they can feel overwhelming. That’s where COFTT steps in.

‍

At COFTT, we handle the entire process from start to finish - whether you’re transferring property to an existing company or need to register a new LLC first. We’ll help you choose the right structure, prepare all documentation, submit your application to the Dubai Land Department, and ensure the transfer is completed smoothly and legally.

‍

If you’re ready to do it right - COFTT is here to help. Contact us Today. Email us at info@coftt.com