| Timeline | Est. Cost (Year 1) | Best Jurisdictions | Licence Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2–12 weeks | AED 30,000 – 50,000 | Mainland DED (Dubai, Abu Dhabi) | Commercial |
The UAE’s property market continues to break records, with Dubai alone registering over 180,000 real estate transactions in 2024. For brokers, developers, and property management firms, the opportunity is enormous — but the regulatory framework is strict.
What Licence Do You Need?
Real estate businesses require a commercial licence with a real estate activity code. Common activities include real estate brokerage, property management, real estate development, and real estate consultancy. In Dubai, all real estate brokerage and management activities must be registered with the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA), which operates under the Dubai Land Department. Individual brokers must also hold a RERA broker card.
Where to Set Up
Real estate is primarily a mainland activity because it involves dealing with local property owners, tenants, and buyers. A mainland licence through Dubai DET, Abu Dhabi ADDED, or Sharjah SEDD gives you unrestricted access. Some free zones permit real estate consultancy activities, but brokerage is generally mainland-only.
Regulatory Requirements
Beyond the trade licence, you will need RERA registration (in Dubai) or the equivalent authority. This involves submitting your licence, proof of office premises, and details of all brokers. Each broker must individually qualify by completing the RERA training programme and passing the exam.
For property developers, additional approvals are required from the Dubai Land Department, including escrow account registration for off-plan sales.
The Setup Process
Expect two to four weeks for the trade licence, followed by one to three weeks for RERA registration and broker card processing. Banking for real estate companies typically takes four to eight weeks.
Total setup time: approximately six to twelve weeks.
What It Costs
A mainland real estate brokerage licence in Dubai costs approximately AED 30,000 to AED 50,000 for the first year, including the licence, RERA registration, office space, and one visa. RERA broker training and exam fees add approximately AED 3,000 to AED 5,000 per broker.
Ready to Get Started?
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