DLD Launches Phase II of Real Estate Tokenisation with Secondary Market

Dubai, UAE: Dubai Land Department (DLD) has announced the launch of Phase II of its Real Estate Tokenisation Project, marking a significant step in the evolution of Dubai’s digital real estate ecosystem with the introduction of regulated secondary market resale activity starting 20 February.

The move signals the project’s transition from an initial pilot phase to a more advanced operational stage, reinforcing Dubai’s readiness for a real estate market shaped by advanced technologies, transparency, and regulated innovation.

The second phase follows the pilot programme launched in March under the REES Real Estate Innovation Initiative, developed in collaboration with the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) and a group of strategic partners. During the pilot phase, regulatory, legislative, and technical frameworks for tokenising real estate title deeds were tested, positioning Dubai as the first real estate registration authority in the region to implement tokenised property ownership within a fully regulated environment.

Activating secondary market trading

Phase II focuses on enabling resale activity in the secondary market through the controlled circulation of approximately 7.8 million real estate tokens, representing a combined asset value of around $2.12 billion (AED 7.8 billion). The controlled pilot framework is designed to assess market efficiency, test operational readiness, enhance governance and transparency, and ensure investor protection while maintaining transaction integrity.

DLD confirmed that this phase will be implemented through a gradual, data-driven approach, with outcomes evaluated in close coordination with relevant regulatory authorities. This methodology allows for real-time assessment of market behaviour and system performance before broader market expansion decisions are made.

The phased rollout ensures full alignment with approved legislative and regulatory frameworks, while reinforcing confidence among both local and international investors exploring tokenised real estate as a secure and transparent investment channel.

Supporting Dubai’s long-term real estate strategy

The Real Estate Tokenisation Project plays a central role in advancing the objectives of the Dubai Real Estate Sector Strategy 2033, which prioritises market balance, transparency, technological enablement, and the delivery of an integrated investment experience. The initiative also supports the expansion of the real estate sector’s contribution to Dubai’s GDP, strengthening the emirate’s position as a leading global hub for property investment.

At a broader level, the project aligns with the ambitions of UAE Vision 2071, which aims to cement global leadership across future-focused sectors while building a sustainable, innovation-driven economy.

DLD confirmed that collaboration with VARA, alongside technical and operational partners, is ongoing to further develop regulatory and technical standards for upcoming phases. Authorities are also evaluating the expansion of market participation and the onboarding of additional platforms, subject to regulatory approval and continuous performance assessment.