Deeds and Waqf Certificates: The Essential Differences and Their Connection

Deeds and Waqf Certificates: The Essential Differences and Their Close Connection By: Alaa Abu Anas – Tuesday, 01-10-2025 AD | 07-04-1447 AH Recently, there has been an increase in questions regarding waqf (endowments) and their procedures, especially with the development of systems in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and their linkage to the General Authority of Endowments and the Real Estate Exchange. Frequently, confusion arises between deeds that establish rights and waqf certificates that administratively define and document the waqf. Hence, clarification becomes essential: First: Waqf Certificates: Issued by the General Authority of Endowments, these are identification documents that do not create a waqf but rather officially identify it to governmental entities. The main types include: 1- Waqf Identification Certificate: Contains basic data such as the name of the waqf, number 700, its type and purpose. 2- Waqf Manager (Nazir) Certificate: Specifies who is officially appointed as the manager, either through a court deed or if designated in the original document. 3- Waqf Registration Certificate: Confirms that the waqf is registered within the Authority’s systems, has a unique number and file, and is often required when updating deeds or linking the waqf to government agencies. 4- Financial Certificate (Yield or Revenue): Clarifies the financial returns generated by the waqf and is used in audits or reports for beneficiaries and relevant authorities. Second: Types of Deeds: 1- Deeds issued by the Ministry of Justice and Sharia Courts that legally prove the origin of rights. The most important ones are: 2- Ownership Deed: Proves ownership of real estate and facilitates transfer via sale. 3- Waqf Deed (Waqf Evidence): Confirms that the property has become a charitable endowment for God, specifying the type of waqf and its designated uses. 4- Possessory Acquisition Deed: Establishes ownership for individuals who lack a prior official deed. 5- Manager Appointment Deed: Officially designates the Sharia-compliant manager responsible for administering the waqf. Third: Differences and Relationship: Deeds: Serve as the primary legal and religious proof of ownership, endowment, or management. Waqf Certificates: Subsequent identification documents issued by the General Authority of Endowments, linking the waqf to a unified number (700) along with manager details. Therefore: A waqf certificate cannot be issued without a previously approved deed. The deed establishes the right, while the certificate identifies and registers it with official authorities. Summary: The deed is the foundational legal and religious basis, while the certificate serves as an administrative extension that documents the waqf and facilitates dealings with official entities. Both are complementary and indispensable. #Endowments #WaqfCertificate #WaqfDeeds #MinistryOfJustice #GeneralAuthorityOfEndowments #RealEstateExchange #SaudiArabia