How to Start Your Real Estate Company in Dubai: License & Setup Guide
Do you think 2025 is the right year to start a real estate company in Dubai?
Dubai's real estate market is witnessing record-breaking growth. In 2024, Dubai touched a new milestone by achieving AED 522.1 billion (USD 142.1 billion) in transactions, which is a 36.5% increase from 2023.
What do you think is the reason behind this? The main reason for the growth is increased investor activity. In 2024, around 110,000 new investors became a part of Dubai's market.
Therefore, if you are planning to set up a real estate company in Dubai, the guide below will help you. It will cover topics like benefits, licensing, office space, visas, and more. Get all the insights needed to kickstart your business journey in Dubai.
Benefits of Starting a Real Estate Company in Dubai
Worldwide, Dubai is known to be a top destination for setting up a real estate business. Why? With its real estate sector booming in the last few years, the opportunities are endless for both newcomers and established businesses in Dubai.
In the present year, 2025, the opportunities are even bigger for those who understand the market well. So, understand all the perks of setting up a real estate agency in Dubai.
1. A Booming Property Market
In the past three years, the growth trajectory of Dubai's property market has seen an upward trend. In the year 2025, it's anticipated to continue, with even better graphs. This is the result of economic diversification, population growth, and global investor interest.
- There's an annual growth rate of 6-8% in ROI in rental properties.
- Increase in demand for ready-to-move, off-plan, luxury properties, and others.
- An impressive continuation in the development of infrastructure, including the Metro.
2. An Environment That Supports Business
The UAE is a country that supports businesses in every way possible with the best streamlined regulatory environment. This is one of the reasons why newcomers find it extremely easy and convenient to open & run a business here. Why?
- No personal income tax.
- 100% foreign ownership.
- Fast approvals and fewer delays.
- Multiple free zones.
- Online government platforms for hassle-free visas, applications, and other activities.
3. High Income and Profit Potential
The real estate sector in Dubai is constantly growing with high income potential for everyone involved, especially in the real estate brokerage. The reason is that most people work on a commission basis. Therefore, earnings are performance-driven with a win-win for all.
- As per some data and research, experienced and skilled agents can earn around AED 50,000 to 1 million plus each year.
- There are huge incentives for real estate companies involved in off-plan sales.
- Other than sales, companies earn from consulting services, leasing, service fees, etc.
4. Strategic Location
Dubai's strategic location is one of the prominent reasons why many are willing to invest in properties here. Dubai attracts investors from Europe, Asia, and Africa. The city is also well-connected to other countries through major airlines. If you are planning to open a real estate company in Dubai to deal with high-net-worth individuals, the location is ideal for you.
5. Strong & Transparent Legal Framework
In Dubai, there are strict legal frameworks to protect the interests of investors and tenants. These are the reasons why investors from all over the world are willing to buy properties in Dubai. This is because of the legal authorities like RERA and DLD.
There's transparency in property dealing because:
- All the brokers must complete the RERA training.
- There are strict legal repercussions for wrong practices.
- Legal escrow systems for off-plan projects.
So, if your company is built on the pillars of trust and integrity, Dubai is the best place to run a real estate agency in Dubai.
6. Growing Demand
Due to international migration and business relocations, Dubai's population is rapidly growing. This increases the demand for rental homes and property purchases, beneficial for real estate business owners. Such businesses can set up here, grow, and expand in no time if planned and operated smartly under the right guidance and expertise.
Use methods like marketing, partnerships, collaborations, and, most importantly, multilingual advertisements to make your reach stronger.
Cost Breakdown of Starting a Real Estate Agency in Dubai?
Understand the cost breakdown in detail to start a real estate business agency in Dubai:
| Category | Expense Item | Estimated Cost (AED) | Estimated Cost (USD) | Notes |
| 1. Licensing & Regulatory Fees | Trade License (DED) | 12,000 – 20,000 | 3,267 – 5,445 | Depends on the structure & activity |
| Real Estate Brokerage License (DLD) | ~12,900 | ~3,512 | Required for brokerage activity | |
| RERA Training Course | 2,500 – 3,000 | 680 – 816 | Mandatory for all agents | |
| RERA Exam Fee (Bachelor's Degree) | 3,200 | 871 | Lower fee for degree holders | |
| RERA Exam Fee (No Degree) | 6,300 | 1,714 | Higher fee without a degree | |
| RERA Certificate Issuance | 500 – 1,500 | 136 – 408 | One-time cost | |
| Total RERA Certification Cost | 6,200 – 10,800 | 1,688 – 2,940 | Varies by educational background | |
| 2. Office Setup | Ejari Registration | Included in rent | Included in rent | Mandatory for all DED offices |
| Office Rent (Annual) | 20,000+ | 5,445+ | Varies by size & location | |
| Office Furniture & Setup | 20,000 – 50,000 | 5,445 – 13,612 | Desks, chairs, reception, etc. | |
| Office Utilities & Maintenance | 10,000 – 20,000 | 2,722 – 5,445 | Internet, water, and electricity | |
| 3. Staffing & Visa Costs | Employee Visa (Per Person) | 4,000 – 7,000 | 1,089 – 1,905 | Includes medical & Emirates ID |
| Salaries | Varies | Varies | Based on job role & experience | |
| 4. Marketing & Advertising | Website Development | 5,000 – 15,000 | 1,361 – 4,083 | Professional real estate website |
| SEO Services (Monthly) | 1,500 – 5,000 | 408 – 1,360 | Ongoing visibility | |
| Online Ads (Monthly) | 6,000 – 18,000 | 1,633 – 4,900 | Google, Meta, portals, etc. | |
| Brochures, Signage, Print | 11,000 – 53,000 | 2,994 – 14,429 | Branding & marketing collateral | |
| 5. Tech & Admin Tools | CRM Software (Annual) | 1,000 – 5,000 | 272 – 1,361 | Lead and client management |
| Accounting Software (Annual) | 500 – 2,000 | 136 – 544 | Bookkeeping and invoicing | |
| 6. Legal, Advisory & Compliance | Business Setup Consultancy | From 12,500 | From 3,403 | Optional but highly recommended |
| Bank Guarantee (DLD Requirement) | 50,000 – 200,000 | 13,612 – 54,449 | Depends on the company's scope |
Total Estimated Cost
| Business Size | Total Cost (AED) | Total Cost (USD) |
| Small Scale | ~50,000 | ~13,612 |
| Medium Scale | 80,000 – 120,000 | 21,779 – 32,448 |
| Full-Scale Agency | 150,000+ | 40,836+ |
Points to Remember for Investors
- For Brokerage, RERA licensing is mandatory.
- For a mainland DED license, an office space with Ejari is a legal requirement.
- In Dubai's competitive market, marketing & visibility are two very important business practices.
Step-by-Step Process to Start a Real Estate Company in Dubai
To start a real estate company in Dubai, follow the steps mentioned below:
Step #1: Have a Business Plan
In a crowded real estate market like Dubai, a strong business plan helps you stand out. Good strategies, objectives, and future goals will guide you throughout your business operations.
- Set Clear Objectives: From the beginning, communicate your vision and mission statements. It will outline the business's core purpose and aspirations to whomever it may concern. Additionally, work on your company profile to highlight your unique selling points that differentiate you from others.
- SWOT Analysis: A SWOT analysis is a study undertaken by organizations to understand their strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. Doing a SWOT analysis helps a company make better business decisions.
- Plan Your Budget: The heart of any business is its budget. Sound financial planning ensures long-term growth and success. It also attracts business and partners. Therefore, plan everything from finances, revenue, money flow, expenditure, and everything else related.
- Marketing & Sales Strategies: Establish your strong presence in the UAE and be visible with a comprehensive market and sales strategy. Among many established real estate agencies in Dubai, visibility is the key to reaching and attracting potential customers.
- The Four Ps: Product, what kind of properties you will offer. Price, the prices should be very competitive. Place, where you will promote your services. Promotion, all the advertisements and campaigns you will run.
Having a better plan means putting the right foot forward.
Step #2: Choose a Business Structure
The journey to launch your real estate agency in Dubai starts with choosing a business structure. There are mainly two options available: the free zone and the mainland. Your company's business structure is like a legal framework that defines all the WHERE, HOW, and WHAT operations. Though the business structure depends on its goals and services, a free zone is a preferred choice for many advantages, including tax benefits and a business-friendly environment.
Step #3: Register Your Trade Name
Once your business structure is final, the next step is to choose a trade name. It's an integral part of setting up a company, and you must comply with the rules and regulations set by the UAE for a trade name.
With all the documents required, you need to submit an application to the DED for a trade name. Include many options in the applications to avoid unnecessary delays in case the name doesn't comply with the naming standards set. Choose a name that's different and reflects your brand's identity the best.
DED stands for the Department of Economic Development.
Step #4: Get a Preliminary Approval From the DED
In case of setting up a real estate agency, a preliminary approval from the DED is required. It's the initial approval you need to set up your company in Dubai. Submit the required documents along with an application form to get the "You can Proceed Now" signal.
Step #5: Get an Approval From RERA
RERA stands for Real Estate Regulatory Agency. It's an agency responsible for governing the real estate sector in Dubai. To move ahead in the process, it's mandatory to complete a formal training course at the Dubai Real Estate Institute (DREI). Only if you pass and get a Certified Training for Real Estate Brokers Qualification can you proceed further with your company formation.
Step #6: Draft an MoA (Memorandum of Association)
The next step is to draft a Memorandum of Association based on what business structure you choose. It's like a document outlining all the rules, guidelines operations, and the structure of the company. The MoA should be legally binded, and notarised in the court.
Step #7: Choose a Business Location
The next very important step in the process is to choose an office location. There are two options available: either to lease or buy a space. Whatever option you choose, there must be a tenancy agreement registered with Ejari. Ejari is the system for rental contracts in Dubai.
Step #8: Apply For Licenses
Now, to operate legally in Dubai, there are two main licenses you need to run your real estate agency in Dubai.
- The first one is a trade license from the DED.
- The second one is a real estate brokerage license from the Dubai Land Department (DLD).
These two licenses are mandatory.
Step #9: Register With RERA
After receiving your licenses, the next step is to register your business with RERA. You need to submit the following documents:
- An application
- A copy of your DED license
- Your tenancy agreement
- Proof of payment for RERA courses
- Your business location details
Step #10: Register With DNRD & MOL
If your staff includes international real estate agents and you have to sponsor their visas, it's essential to register with DNRD & MOL.
DNRD: Department of Naturalization and Residency Dubai
MOL: Ministry of Labour
This is required to be legally compliant with Dubai's hiring and managing rules for foreign employees.
Step #11: Get an Approval From DLD (Dubai Land Department)
The final approval before your company's launch is the approval from the Dubai Land Department. This approval confirms that your company has fulfilled all the local regulations required to set up a company here.
Step #12: Set Up Your Office
Now, finally, set up your real estate office in Dubai. Choose a location that's easy to access for your clients. Location plays an important role, and it's mandatory as per Dubai's regulatory standards.
Step #13: Open a Business Bank Account
Now, open a business bank account. It's necessary to manage all company transactions and keep a record.
Step #14: Apply for Employee Visas
If your company has employees, you will have to apply for employee visas. Based on your business's nature, you may also be required to register with the DNRD for visa processing & MOL for employment registration.
Legal Structure Options for Real Estate Companies in Dubai
There are 5 types of legal structures to consider for a real estate company in Dubai:
| Legal Structure | Description | Ownership Rules | Real Estate Eligibility | Ideal For |
| Sole Establishment | A business owned and operated by a single individual. | 100% owned by a UAE national (expats can set up in free zones) | Not eligible for real estate brokerage on the mainland. | Individual consultants, small-scale professionals. |
| Limited Liability Company (LLC) | -Most popular structure for real estate businesses. -Offers limited liability. | Up to 100% foreign ownership allowed (as per the latest laws) | Fully eligible for brokerage activities via RERA. | Entrepreneurs wanting to operate mainland real estate businesses. |
| Civil Company | A partnership structure that is used for professional services. | 100% foreign ownership allowed (if licensed professionals). | Not recommended for real estate brokerage. | Architects, engineers, consultants (non-brokerage real estate services). |
| Free Zone Company | Businesses registered within designated free zones. | 100% foreign ownership. | Cannot directly conduct property sales on the mainland without a local agent. | Tech-based real estate platforms, consultancy, and support services. |
| Mainland Company | Businesses licensed under DED (Department of Economic Development). | 100% foreign ownership is possible (with certain activities). | Full access to Dubai's real estate market & clients. | Real estate agencies, brokerages, or firms planning to operate across Dubai. |
Things to Consider:
- For a real estate brokerage business, an LLC on the mainland is the best option.
- Free Zone companies cannot lease or sell in the Mainland.
Types of Real Estate License in Dubai
Understand the different types of real estate licenses in Dubai to apply for the most appropriate for your business:
1. Real Estate Broker License
If you want to become a real estate agent in Dubai, a real estate broker license is the best. This license lets you help people buy, sell, and lease property, along with negotiating deals. To get this license, fulfill the following requirements:
- Complete the training program for real estate agents through DREI. DREI provides Certified Training for Real Estate Brokers program.
- You have to pass a RERA exam. The examination is conducted to check your knowledge about Dubai's real estate laws and regulations.
2. Property Management License
If you are a real estate company in Dubai involved in managing rental properties on behalf of owners, you will need a property management license. With this license, certain responsibilities are attached:
- Tenant management
- Rent collection
- Property maintenance
- Repairs
3. Real Estate Valuation License
If you want to specialize in property valuers in Dubai, a real estate valuation license is required. This license allows you to estimate the value of a property for things like bank loans, buying, selling, and tax purposes. You get it only if:
- You are experienced in property valuation
- You have completed a RERA-approved valuation training course.
4. Mortgage Consultancy License
As the name suggests, this license is for individuals or companies who want to start a real estate consultancy in Dubai to advise clients on how to secure mortgages from financial institutions. This license holder can only guide clients and cannot be directly involved in buying and selling. To get this license, you must have:
- A university degree in finance.
- Relevant experience in the same sector.
Which Option is Best for Starting a Real Estate Agency in Dubai? The Mainland or a Free Zone?
Have a look at this table representation to better understand which option is right for your business goals based on different aspects:
| Aspect | Mainland | Free Zone |
| Legal Jurisdiction | Regulated by the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED) and RERA | Regulated by the respective Free Zone Authority (e.g., DMCC, DIFC, DSO, etc.) |
| Allowed Real Estate Activities | ✅ Full brokerage, property sales, leasing, management, off-plan, escrow, etc. | ❌ Limited to consultancy, advisory, or tech platforms (unless partnered with a mainland broker) |
| RERA Registration Eligibility | ✅ Yes — Required for brokers, agents, and developers | ❌ No — Most Free Zones are not eligible for RERA activity codes |
| Dubai Land Department (DLD) Access | ✅ Direct access to DLD systems for transaction and title services | ❌ Not allowed |
| Market Access | ✅ Can operate anywhere in Dubai and the UAE | ❌ Restricted to operating within the Free Zone unless partnered |
| Physical Office Requirement | ✅ Mandatory — must lease an office with Ejari (minimum 200 sq. ft.) | ☑️ Optional — can operate with a Flexi-desk or co-working space (limited visa quota) |
| Ownership | ✅ 100% foreign ownership allowed (since 2021) | ✅ 100% foreign ownership |
| Setup Time | ⏱ 1 to 3 weeks (depends on RERA and DED approvals) | ⏱ 1 to 2 weeks (usually faster) |
| Cost of Setup | 💰 AED 35,000 – 60,000+ (includes RERA course, license, office, etc.) | 💰 AED 15,000 – 30,000 (lower cost but fewer privileges) |
| Visa Sponsorship | ✅ Based on office size (1 visa per 80–100 sq. ft.) | ☑️ Limited — usually 1–6 visas based on package |
| Bank Account Opening | ✅ Easier due to a regulated structure | ☑️ Can be harder depending on the free zone and business activity |
| Reputation & Trust | 🟢 Highly recognized and trusted by investors & landlords | 🟡 May raise questions in client perception if not registered with RERA |
| Ideal For | - Real estate brokers and agents- Property developers- Property management companies | - Real estate consultants- Market analysts- Lead generation platforms- PropTech companies |
| Limitations | ❌ Higher setup and compliance costs | ❌ Cannot legally handle property transactions in Dubai |
| Renewals & Compliance | ✅ Annual RERA certification, license renewal, and office rent | ✅ Annual license renewal, no RERA certification required |
| Scalability | 🟢 Scalable with branch offices, larger staff, and local contracts | 🟡 Limited scalability unless upgraded to the mainland |
Summary:
- If you want to set up a fully licensed real estate company in Dubai where you can lease and do other property development activities, choose the Mainland.
- If your business goals are just consulting and backend support, with no plans for direct transactions in Dubai real estate, choose a free zone.
Documents Required to Start a Real Estate Company in Dubai
Below is the list of documents required to start a real estate company in Dubai. Get everything in place to ensure the process goes smoothly.
- Proof of passing the Real Estate Exam.
- A valid passport.
- Proof of having a physical office space.
- Proof of having a licensed broker.
- Proof of having an accountant who is registered with RERA.
- A letter of recommendation.
- Your official degree.
- Criminal record.
- A RERA-approved property valuation certificate.
- Copies of your bank statements and credit card bills for the past three months.
Please note that documentation requirements can vary based on what business structure you choose, the number of employees, the office space, and other license requirements you may have.
Office Space Requirements to Start a Real Estate Company in Dubai
Choosing an office space is also a strategic and regulatory requirement to consider when planning to launch your real estate setup in Dubai. Especially for a mainland real estate company, a physical office space is mandatory.
1. Size of the Office Space
- As per the RERA and DED, a minimum of 200 sq.ft. office space is required to undertake real estate activities. If not, the Ejari Certificate won't be issued, which is essential to get the license approval.
2. Requirements for Ejari Registration
- The office space must be registered under Dubai's official tenancy registration system, which is the Ejari System.
- No Ejari means no license.
- The lease must be in commercial or business-zoned property.
3. Approved Locations
- The office location must be approved for real estate activities.
- Some options are Business Bay, Al Barsha, Sheikh Zayed Road, JLT, Bur Dubai, Diera, Al Nahda, etc.
Alert: Whatever location you choose, always double-check with the DED if the building is approved for real estate activity or not.
4. Office Space for Start-Ups
If you are just starting with a budget, there are different options available:
- Shared desks
- Co-working spaces
- Flexi-desks
Many of these options now provide Ejari-compatible office leases.
Please note: In case of real estate business in Dubai, no options are available for virtual offices or PO boxes. Also, maintain the physical office to comply with RERA regulations.
Licensing Requirements for Real Estate Companies in Dubai
Understand the licensing requirements for real estate companies in Dubai for a smooth process:
1. DED Trade License
- Issuing Authority: Department of Economy and Tourism (DET)
- Activity Codes:
702001 – Real Estate Buying & Selling Brokerage
702003 – Real Estate Leasing Brokerage
702005 – Real Estate Valuation Services
702006 – Real Estate Management Supervision Services
- Key Requirements:
- Minimum office size of 200 sq. ft. with Ejari
- Valid passport, tenancy contract, and business name approval
- Who It's For: Mainland real estate companies
Note: Mandatory for establishing a licensed brokerage or real estate agency in Dubai.
2. RERA Registration & Certification
- Issuing Authority: Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA), under Dubai Land Department (DLD)
- Activity Code: Not applicable (it's a regulatory certification, not a license)
- Key Requirements:
- Completion of RERA training (via Dubai Real Estate Institute)
- Passing the RERA exam
- Certificate of Good Conduct
- UAE residency visa required
- Who It's For: Real estate brokers, agents, and company managers
Note: Legally required for individuals engaging in real estate transactions.
3. Holiday Home License
- Issuing Authority: Department of Economy and Tourism (DET)
- Activity Code: 551003 – Vacation Homes Rental
- Key Requirements:
- Trade license for the correct activity
- Title deed or valid tenancy contract
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the landlord if renting
- Registration on the DET's Holiday Homes portal
- Who It's For: Individuals or companies offering short-term furnished rentals
Note: Mandatory for Airbnb-style property management.
4. Off-Plan Advisory License
- Issuing Authority: Department of Economy and Tourism (DET)
- Activity Code: 7020003 – Real Estate Consultancies
- Key Requirements:
- Valid business plan
- Proof of experience in real estate advisory
- Office space with Ejari
- May require RERA review or additional approvals
- Who It's For: Companies advising investors on off-plan property deals
Note: This license is for consulting only, not for actual sales brokerage.
Real Estate Company Compliance Checklist 2025
Launching your real estate company in Dubai is not the end; it's just the start. To make sure everything goes smoothly and uninterrupted, comply with ongoing requirements set by the DLD and RERA. Here's everything you need to know:
1. Annual License Renewal
The annual license renewal is a mandatory requirement for all real estate professionals. It's done through the DLD's Trakheesi system or the Dubai REST mobile app. The documents required and fees are as follows:
- Valid Emirates ID
- Valid passport copy
- Proof of passing the annual RERA test
- AED 500 for most practice cards
- AED 5,000 for real estate evaluator cards
- Additional AED 10 each for knowledge and innovation fees
Alert: If you fail to renew the license within six months of its expiry date, it could lead to license cancellations.
2. RERA Continuing Professional Development (CPD)
As of August 1, 2021, RERA has made it a requirement that every broker will have to take and pass the annual test administered by DREI to renew the license. The details of the test are as follows:
- Registration fees of AED 700.
- If you fail the test, appear for it again after taking a training course.
- The training course will cost around AED 2,500.
This is mandatory so brokers are aligned with what's updating and trending.
3. Anti-Money Laundering & Know Your Customer Compliance
The DLD has set some regulations for real estate companies to comply with AML & KYC. How?
- If you spot any suspicious activities, report directly to the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU).
- Implement the required internal policies to prevent any money laundering activity.
- In case of high-value transactions, conduct a thorough due diligence on clients.
Keep your business safe from legal repercussions by adhering to AML and KYC regulations.
Tips to Market and Brand Your Real Estate Company in Dubai
To survive and thrive in a competitive market like Dubai, marketing and branding are two pillars of success. Here's how you can do it successfully:
1. Create a Brand that Leaves an Impact
When you create a brand, it's a commitment you make. Therefore, your logo, name, taglines, website, and everything else should be a reflection of your commitment. It should be clear, professional, and trustworthy. How?
- Make a logo that would make people think and connect instantly. Be creative but smart enough to align it with Dubai's real estate market and branding.
- Have a clear USP to highlight your business. Have something unique to catch attention.
2. Create a Thoughtful and Quality Website
In the digital world, create a digital business card, which is your website. It should showcase everything your business is involved in, like listings, team, expertise, profile, contact information, and everything that your clients and visitors should know about your business. How to make it better?
- Make it mobile-responsive.
- Easily accessible call-to-action buttons.
- Integrated property search filters.
- Blogs and updates.
- Direct call buttons.
- Chat box.
- CRM and lead capture forms.
3. Use Famous Property Portals in Dubai
As a real estate company owner, you cannot miss listing your properties on famous property portals in Dubai, like:
- Bayut
- Property Finder
- Dubizzle
- Houza
These portals have thousands of daily visitors looking for properties in Dubai for different purposes, like buying, renting, selling, leasing, etc.
4. Use Social Media
Dubai has a population that actively uses social media platforms like Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, and Facebook. Make the most of these websites to promote your services. Level up your game by sharing testimonials and other relevant information to attract your potential clients.
The key to success is consistency!
5 Major Challenges to Consider When Starting a Real Estate Company in Dubai
When planning to start a digital marketing company in Dubai, some challenges can bottleneck your growth. Understanding them can help you tackle those with better planning for sustainable growth. Here are the 5 major challenges to consider:
1. High Initial Setup Cost
The initial cost of setting up a real estate agency in Dubai can be high. There are different costs to take care of, like the RERA training, Ejari, employee visas, management tools, marketing, branding, and more. The budget part is often underestimated by new entrepreneurs, which can result in money flow issues in the business.
What To Do?
- Have a detailed budget plan with an expert.
- Look for cost-effective alternatives.
2. Intense Competition & Crowded Market
There are thousands of registered real estate agents & companies in Dubai. Outrunning the competition in such a crowded market is a real challenge. If you don't have strong branding, marketing, a website, logos, USPs, and others to make you stand out in the crowd, the journey will be slow and tough.
What To Do?
- Showcase yourself as an expert in a niche.
- Focus on branding and marketing strategies.
3. Legal and Contractual Risks
Running a real estate company in Dubai and handling properties involves contracts, deposits, documents, and compliance with landlord-tenant laws. Errors with the legal process means heavy fines and disputes. Therefore, clarity, transparency, and vigilance are a must to ensure everything is in order.
What To Do?
- Hire a legal advisor.
- Train your team on regulatory compliance.
4. Fluctuation in Property Market
Dubai's real estate market has a close connection with global economic trends, interest rates, government policies & regional developments. These factors influence the property market, and it can impact your business too in terms of prices, demand, investor confidence, etc.
What To Do?
- Be flexible in your services.
- Stay updated with the market trends and prices.
- Diversify your services.
5. Strict Licensing
Dubai Land Department and RERA are two main authorities responsible for regulating Dubai's real estate sector. Entrepreneurs must complete the elaborate licensing process to ensure timely and regular approvals. Missing any step could block your business operations.
What To Do?
- Partner with expert business setup consultants. They will help you navigate the complex licensing system with ease.
- Be very careful about all the licensing from day 1.
Start Your Real Estate Company in Dubai With The Vista Corporate Group
With its strategic location, tax policies, free zone availability, technology, high-end infrastructure, growing economy, easy process, and ease of doing business, Dubai is the best place to set up your real estate company. Ensure that everything is in order and in place for a smooth start. Rest assured, you grow as you keep learning from your experiences. You can run a sustainable company in Dubai if you are legally doing everything right and have all the licenses needed.
To ensure your money, time, and efforts are going in the right direction, partner with The Vista Corporate Group. We are a group of qualified veteran advisors helping budding entrepreneurs like you to set up their businesses successfully in Dubai.
Contact us now for a free consultation for your real estate company in Dubai.
FAQs
1. Can a foreigner start a real estate agency in Dubai?
Yes, foreigners can start their real estate agency in Dubai. They can also have 100% ownership as per recent reforms for the real estate sector. But for activities like real estate brokerage, there are regulations to follow set by RERA and DLD. Additionally, they must operate from an approved office space.
2. Is a RERA certificate mandatory for all real estate brokers?
Yes. The RERA certificate is mandatory for everyone involved in selling & leasing property in Dubai. You must also complete the RERA training and pass the final examination to get the RERA broker ID. It's required to legally work in Dubai as a broker. Otherwise, you can fall into legal troubles.
3. Is a local sponsor required to run and open a real estate company in Dubai?
No. As per new commercial company laws, you don't need a local sponsor to open a real estate company in Dubai. This is valid for most of the real estate activities. As a foreigner, you can own 100% of your business, especially in the free zones or in the case of a mainland LLC.
4. How much time does it take to start a real estate company in Dubai?
If everything is in order and you get approvals at the right time, it will take around 2-4 weeks to set up your real estate company in Dubai. The process includes trade license issuance, RERA certificate, opening a bank account, and office lease registration. To avoid unnecessary delays, partner with Vista Corporate Group & we can help you with everything from licensing, visas, documents, to the final setup.
5. Can I start my real estate company in the free zone & still sell properties in Dubai?
No. You cannot directly sell or lease properties in Dubai if your business setup is in the free zone. For doing so, you will need some additional approvals from RERA & DLD. The free zone companies are more compatible for services like support services or international real estate consultancies, and not direct brokerage.
6. What's the cost to start a real estate agency in Dubai?
An investment of AED 45,000 to AED 100,000 is required. The cost can differ based on factors like no. of brokers, visa requirements, training, rent, government fees, and more. Consult business set-up experts at Vista, and they will help you estimate the cost.
7. What are the profitable areas for real estate selling & leasing in Dubai?
Some of the most profitable areas for real estate selling and leasing in Dubai are Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, Business Bay, JVC, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai South, and Emaar Beachfront. These are luxury areas in Dubai with high potential for profits.
8. Can I hire agents from outside the UAE for my real estate business in Dubai?
Yes, but only after they fulfill the following requirements:
- The agent must have a UAE residency visa.
- They should pass the RERA training and exam by physically being present in the UAE. After that, they get the visa.
- After getting the visa, the agent must be registered with MOHRE or a free zone authority.
- Registration with MOHRE if the company is in the mainland, and the free zone authority if the business is in the free zone.
9. What's the pass rate for the RERA examination?
The pass rate for the RERA examination depends. Prepare well with the help of known training programs, and your chances of doing well in the examination will increase.
