Authorities we deal with
Developers in Dubai register projects with the Dubai Land Department (DLD) and RERA, obtain planning and building approvals from Dubai Municipality or a zone authority such as Trakhees, secure master-developer NOCs (for example Nakheel), and open escrow with an approved trustee bank. Fifth Consultancy coordinates all of them.
Last updated 1 October 2026
Dubai Land Department (DLD)
The government department that registers real estate in Dubai, including developers, off-plan projects, Oqood and title deeds.
Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA)
DLD's regulatory arm. It oversees developer and project registration, escrow compliance and off-plan marketing.
Trakhees
The regulator for areas under Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation (PCFC), handling planning and building approvals in its jurisdictions.
Nakheel
A master developer whose communities have their own approval and NOC processes for developers building on its plots.
Dubai Municipality
Responsible for planning and building permits in areas outside zone authorities.
Emirates Real Estate Solutions
A government-owned real estate services company affiliated with the Dubai Land Department.
Approved trustee banks
Banks accepted to hold project escrow accounts under Law No. 8 of 2007.
Questions
Which authority approves my project?
It depends on where the plot sits. Registration always goes through DLD/RERA, while planning and building approvals come from Dubai Municipality or the relevant zone authority or master developer, such as Trakhees or Nakheel.
Do you handle approvals with master developers?
Yes. We coordinate NOCs and approvals with master developers and zone authorities as part of project registration.
Let's consult now
Tell us about your project and a Fifth Consultancy specialist will map the regulatory pathway and timeline with you.