Dubai’s real estate market is one of the most dynamic and profitable in the world, attracting investors, entrepreneurs, and global brands alike. With its tax-friendly policies, booming property sector, and world-class infrastructure, the city offers immense opportunities for those looking to establish a real estate business. However, entering this highly regulated industry requires careful planning, adherence to legal requirements, and a clear understanding of the official processes set by Dubai Land Department (DLD) and the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA).
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know—from business setup and licensing to certifications and compliance—so you can successfully launch and grow your real estate venture in Dubai.
1. How Can You Start Your Real Estate Business in Dubai Step by Step?
Step 1: Define Your Business Activity and Structure
Before applying for a license, you must decide the type of real estate activity you want to pursue. Dubai offers various categories such as:
Real Estate Brokerage (buying, selling, and leasing on behalf of clients)
Property Management
Real Estate Development
Leasing and Renting Brokerage
Once you know your activity, you need to choose the right business structure:
Limited Liability Company (LLC) – The most common structure.
Sole Proprietorship or Civil Company – For individual ownership.
Branch of a Foreign Company – If expanding from abroad.
Your choice determines your licensing requirements and operational flexibility.
Step 2: Select Jurisdiction – Mainland vs Free Zone
Dubai offers two main options for setting up your real estate business:
Mainland (Department of Economy & Tourism – DET):
- Allows you to operate across Dubai and the UAE.
- Now permits 100% foreign ownership in most activities.
Free Zone (e.g., Dubai Multi Commodities Centre – DMCC, Dubai World Trade Centre, DIFC):
- Offers tax incentives, faster company setup, and 100% foreign ownership.
- However, free zone companies may face restrictions when dealing directly in the Dubai mainland market unless they appoint a local agent.
Step 3: Reserve a Trade Name and Get Initial Approval
The Department of Economy & Tourism (DET) or your respective Free Zone Authority requires you to register a unique trade name that follows UAE’s naming guidelines. After this, you must apply for initial approval, which confirms that your planned business activity is permitted.
Step 4: Secure an Office Space and Register with Ejari
A physical office space is mandatory to obtain a real estate license in Dubai. The office should meet the minimum size requirements specified by the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA).
Once leased, the tenancy contract must be registered through Ejari, Dubai’s official tenancy registration system. Ejari registration is essential for licensing and further approvals.
Step 5: Obtain RERA Certification and Pass the Exam
To work legally in Dubai’s real estate industry, you must be certified by RERA (Real Estate Regulatory Agency).
- Complete a training course through the Dubai Real Estate Institute (DREI).
- Pass the RERA exam to qualify as a licensed real estate professional.
- Obtain your Broker Registration Number (BRN) after passing.
This step ensures that only qualified professionals operate in Dubai’s property sector.
Step 6: Draft the Memorandum of Association (MOA)
If you are setting up an LLC, you must draft a Memorandum of Association (MOA) with details of shareholders, business scope, and responsibilities. This document needs to be notarized in Dubai before submission.
Step 7: Apply for a Real Estate Trade License
Once all the above requirements are fulfilled, you can apply for your real estate license:
- Submit all required documents (trade name approval, RERA certificate, Ejari, passports, MOA, etc.) to the DET (for mainland) or your Free Zone Authority.
- The license fee usually ranges between AED 12,000 – AED 18,000, depending on the activity and location.
Step 8: Register with RERA and Dubai Land Department (DLD)
After obtaining your license, you must register your business with:
- RERA – for professional recognition and regulation.
- Dubai Land Department (DLD) – to get access to official property transaction systems and advertising permissions.
Additionally, you will need to apply for Broker ID cards for all your agents (approx. AED 1,000 per card).
Step 9: Ensure Compliance with AML and VAT Regulations
The UAE real estate sector follows strict Anti-Money Laundering (AML) policies. You must:
- Conduct Customer Due Diligence (CDD) on clients.
- File Suspicious Transaction Reports (STRs) when needed.
- Maintain client records for at least 5 years.
If your business turnover exceeds AED 375,000, you must also register for VAT with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA).
Step 10: Open a Corporate Bank Account and Hire Staff
To operate effectively, open a corporate bank account with any local or international bank in Dubai. You will need your trade license, Ejari, MOA, and identification documents for this.
You can also start hiring employees and apply for work visas through the Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation (MOHRE) and the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA).
Step 11: Market and Launch Your Business
Once all approvals and registrations are complete, you can officially launch your business. However, advertising property listings requires RERA approval through the Trakheesi system.
- Use digital platforms, social media, and real estate portals to reach clients.
- Build a strong online presence and comply with RERA’s advertising guidelines.
- Renew your trade license, Ejari, and broker cards annually.
2. What Are the Eligibility Conditions to Start Your Real Estate Business in Dubai?
Starting a real estate business in Dubai is a promising opportunity, but the government has set specific eligibility conditions to ensure professionalism and compliance. Below are the main requirements:
1. Age Requirement
- The applicant must be at least 21 years old to apply for a real estate license.
2. Educational & Training Certification
- Completion of the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) training program at the Dubai Real Estate Institute (DREI).
- Passing the RERA exam to obtain a Broker Registration Number (BRN).
3. Clean Legal Record
- The applicant must have a clear criminal record. A Certificate of Good Conduct may be required in some cases.
4. Valid Residency & Identification
- A valid passport and, for expatriates, a UAE residence visa.
- Emirates ID is needed for residents.
5. Office Space Requirement
- The company must lease a commercial office that meets RERA’s minimum office size standards.
- The lease contract must be registered with Ejari.
6. Business Setup Documentation
- Trade name reservation and initial approval from the Department of Economy & Tourism (DET) or Free Zone Authority.
- Draft and notarize a Memorandum of Association (MOA) for LLC setups.
7. Financial Standing
- Sufficient funds to cover license fees, RERA certification costs, and office lease. Initial setup can range from AED 30,000 – AED 50,000 depending on scale.
8. Compliance Obligations
- Adherence to Anti-Money Laundering (AML) regulations.
- Registration for VAT if annual turnover exceeds AED 375,000.
3. What Are the Organizations Responsible for Licensing Companies in the Real Estate Sector in Dubai?
Dubai’s real estate sector is tightly regulated to maintain transparency and professionalism. If you are planning to start a real estate business, you will need approvals and licensing from the following key organizations:
1. Department of Economy & Tourism (DET)
- Formerly known as DED, this is the primary authority for issuing trade licenses to businesses operating on the Dubai mainland.
- It handles trade name reservations, initial approvals, and business activity classification.
2. Free Zone Authorities
- If you choose to establish your company in a Free Zone (such as DMCC, DIFC, or Dubai World Trade Centre), the respective Free Zone Authority issues your trade license.
- Free Zones also provide additional benefits like 100% foreign ownership and tax incentives.
3. Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA)
- A subsidiary of the Dubai Land Department (DLD), RERA regulates all real estate brokerage and property management activities.
- It oversees agent certification, Broker Registration Numbers (BRN), and advertising permits through the Trakheesi system.
4. Dubai Land Department (DLD)
- The DLD is the central authority for real estate registration, property transactions, and ownership documentation.
- All real estate companies must register with DLD to carry out buying, selling, and leasing activities legally.
4. What Are the Legal Requirements and Documents You Should Prepare to Register a Real Estate Company in Dubai?
Starting a real estate company in Dubai involves meeting certain legal requirements and submitting the correct documentation to the authorities. Below are the essentials you should prepare:
- Legal Requirements
1. Business Activity Selection – Decide your real estate activity (brokerage, property management, development, etc.).
2. Trade Name Approval – Reserve a unique trade name with the Department of Economy & Tourism (DET) or Free Zone Authority.
3. RERA Certification – Complete training at the Dubai Real Estate Institute (DREI) and pass the RERA exam.
4. Office Lease & Ejari – Secure a commercial office space that meets RERA standards and register it with Ejari.
5. Memorandum of Association (MOA) – Draft and notarize the MOA if setting up an LLC.
6. Registration with RERA & DLD – Obtain approval from the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) and register with the Dubai Land Department (DLD).
- Required Documents
- Passport copies of all shareholders and managers.
- Visa copies and Emirates ID (for residents).
- Passport-size photographs.
- Trade name reservation certificate.
- Initial approval certificate from DET or Free Zone Authority.
- Tenancy contract and Ejari registration.
- Memorandum of Association (notarized).
- RERA training completion certificate and exam result.
- Good Conduct Certificate (in some cases).
5. What Are the Licences and Permits Required to Set Up a Real Estate Company in Dubai?
To legally operate a real estate company in Dubai, you must obtain specific licenses and permits from the concerned authorities:
1. Trade License
- Issued by the Department of Economy & Tourism (DET) for mainland companies or the relevant Free Zone Authority.
- Authorizes your business activity (e.g., real estate brokerage, property management, leasing, or development).
2. RERA Certification & Broker Registration Number (BRN)
- Mandatory certification from the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) after completing training and passing the exam.
- Grants eligibility to operate as a licensed real estate professional.
3. Dubai Land Department (DLD) Registration
- Companies must register with the DLD to carry out property transactions and access official systems.
4. Trakheesi Permit
- Issued by RERA for advertising and listing properties.
- Required even for digital or social media property ads.
5. Broker ID Cards
- Each real estate agent working under the company must obtain a Broker ID card from RERA.
6.What Is the Estimated Budget for Starting and Operating a Real Estate Company in Dubai?
Starting a real estate company in Dubai requires a well-planned budget that covers licensing, office space, and operational costs. On average, the initial setup can range from AED 45,000 to AED 100,000 for a small-scale company, including trade licenses, RERA certification, DLD registration, office rent, and visas. For a mid-sized setup with better office space, marketing, and staff, costs may rise to AED 150,000–250,000, while larger brokerages with premium offices, extensive teams, and higher guarantees may need AED 300,000–450,000+. Beyond setup, ongoing expenses like marketing, salaries, and technology can significantly increase annual operating costs, making careful financial planning essential before entering Dubai’s highly competitive real estate market.
7.Is the Free Zones a Better Option? And why?
Setting up a real estate company in a Free Zone in Dubai can be an attractive option, but it depends on your business model. Free Zones generally offer 100% foreign ownership, full repatriation of profits, zero personal income tax, and simplified setup procedures, which makes them appealing for entrepreneurs who want quick and flexible entry into the market. They also provide cost-effective packages that often include office space, business support services, and visa quotas.
However, Free Zone companies have limitations—they are typically restricted from directly engaging in property brokerage or dealing in Dubai’s onshore real estate market without partnering with a Dubai Land Department (DLD)–licensed entity. If your goal is to act as a broker, property manager, or developer in Dubai’s main market, you’ll need a mainland license with RERA approval. On the other hand, Free Zone setups are excellent for real estate consultancies, marketing firms, investment holding companies, or international businesses that don’t require direct onshore brokerage.
👉 *In short: Free Zones are better for cost efficiency, full ownership, and flexibility, while mainland licensing is essential if you want to operate as a full-fledged real estate brokerage or developer in Dubai.
8. What Are the Considerations for Setting Up an Office Space That Meets Legal and Operational Requirements?
When starting a real estate company in Dubai, securing the right office space is not just a formality—it’s a legal requirement. The Dubai Land Department (DLD) and RERA mandate that every licensed real estate company operates from a physical office registered with Ejari. Here are the main considerations:
1. Legal Compliance
- The office must be in a commercial space (not residential).
- A valid tenancy contract registered with Ejari is mandatory for license approval.
- RERA may inspect the office to ensure it meets their standards.
2. Size and Location
- The space should be sufficient for your planned activities (brokerage, management, or development).
- A central location in key real estate hubs (like Business Bay, Downtown, Marina, or JLT) enhances credibility and accessibility.
3. Facilities and Infrastructure
- Must have adequate seating, meeting rooms, and IT infrastructure to support staff and clients.
- A professional environment is essential to meet RERA’s expectations and attract clients.
4. Cost Considerations
- Office rent is a major part of the startup budget, with Business Bay and Downtown being premium options, while JLT or Al Barsha offer more affordable alternatives.
5. Scalability
- Choose a space that allows room for growth if you plan to expand your team.
9. What Are the Benefits of Starting a Real Estate Business in Dubai?
Dubai has established itself as one of the world’s leading real estate hubs, offering investors and entrepreneurs strong opportunities for growth. Here are the key benefits of starting a real estate business in Dubai:
1. Booming Property Market
- Dubai’s real estate sector continues to expand, driven by global investors, high demand for luxury homes, and steady population growth.
- Major developments like Dubai Creek Harbour, Bluewaters Island, and Expo City create ongoing investment opportunities.
2. High ROI (Return on Investment)
- Rental yields in Dubai average between 6–8%, higher than many global cities like London or New York.
- Properties in prime areas can deliver even stronger returns.
3. Tax Advantages
- Dubai offers zero personal income tax and no capital gains tax, allowing real estate investors and businesses to maximize profits.
4. Strategic Global Location
- Positioned between East and West, Dubai attracts international buyers, making it a top choice for global real estate investors.
5. Strong Regulatory Framework
- The Dubai Land Department (DLD) and RERA ensure transparency, security, and investor protection, building trust in the market.
6. Diverse Market Demand
From luxury villas to affordable apartments, Dubai caters to both high-net-worth individuals and middle-income residents, ensuring continuous demand.
7. Business-Friendly Environment
- Streamlined company formation, availability of Free Zones, and government support make it easier for entrepreneurs to establish and grow.
In short: Dubai’s real estate market offers high returns, strong regulations, global demand, and tax-free profits—making it one of the most rewarding places to start a property business.
