Muscat – The new Real Estate Registry Law issued under the Royal Decree No 56/2026 last week is aimed at modernising the property sector, strengthening legal safeguards and accelerating digital transformation across real estate services, stated the Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning. 

The law introduces a new framework for property registration and documentation, allowing electronic registration of transactions and granting digital records and contracts the same legal validity as paper documents.

The ministry said the legislation forms part of its efforts to improve the efficiency, transparency and reliability of the real estate market while simplifying procedures for investors, property owners and businesses.

The law consists of 40 articles covering property registration, ownership rights, electronic title deeds and regulatory procedures linked to real estate transactions.

Under the new provisions, all original and derivative property rights must be registered, a step intended to strengthen ownership clarity and reduce disputes. The law also places responsibility on contracting parties in cases where transactions are not officially registered.

One of the key changes is the introduction of electronic title deeds, with English translations available on request. Authorities said the measure is expected to support foreign investment and improve access to real estate services for international investors.

The law also permits government and private entities to authenticate real estate-related documents and transactions in accordance with rules to be outlined in the executive regulations.

In another provision aimed at supporting investment, the law allows land and property registration in the names of non-Omanis, companies and legal entities, subject to existing laws and regulations.

The legislation also covers off-plan sales and real estate development projects by recognising the role of the primary real estate registry in documenting and registering property units. Temporary title deeds may also be issued in accordance with applicable laws.

To strengthen legal protection, the law criminalises the submission of false information or forged documents used to obtain property registration unlawfully. Penal and administrative sanctions have also been introduced for violations.

Ali bin Salem Al Issai, Real Estate Registry officer at MHUP, said the law represents a major legislative step that aligns the sector with ongoing digital and investment developments in the Sultanate.

He said the legislation would improve transparency, unify registration procedures and enhance confidence among local and international investors by providing a clearer legal framework for real estate transactions.

Al Issai added that the law would also support urban expansion and real estate development projects while strengthening governance and oversight across the sector.