How to Start a Real Estate Business in Dubai

How to set up a real estate business in Dubai

Setting up a real estate business in Dubai in 2025 is a strategic move that combines the power of one of the world’s fastest-growing property markets with a business-friendly environment. The city’s skyline isn’t the only thing growing — the real estate sector continues to attract local and international investors, entrepreneurs, and brokers. Whether you're aiming to start a real estate brokerage or invest in property management, Dubai offers a wide range of opportunities for those who understand the legal and procedural frameworks.

Starting a real estate business in Dubai requires careful planning, full regulatory compliance, and a strong understanding of the local real estate market. While the entry barriers are moderate compared to other major cities, the licensing and legal procedures must be taken seriously. The Dubai Land Department (DLD), Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA), and the Department of Economic Development (DED) oversee most aspects of this process. Their collaboration ensures that only qualified, trained, and licensed professionals can operate within this booming industry.

At its core, the process of launching a real estate company in Dubai involves four major pillars: choosing the right legal structure, obtaining the required licenses and approvals, securing an appropriate office space, and fulfilling all training and compliance obligations. This guide outlines everything you need to set up a real estate company in Dubai in a way that is both efficient and compliant with 2025 regulations.

Choosing your business model and activity type

The first step in setting up a real estate company in Dubai is determining the type of activity your business will carry out. The DED and DLD classify real estate companies into various categories, including:

• Real estate brokerage
• Real estate leasing and property management
• Real estate development
• Real estate consultancy

Each activity has specific licensing and operational requirements. For example, real estate brokerage companies are required to register with RERA, pass the RERA training program, and obtain a certified broker ID. On the other hand, property development companies face stricter capital requirements and must receive additional approvals from the Dubai Land Department.

You must also choose between setting up your business on the mainland or within a free zone. A mainland company allows for full engagement in the local market, including property sales and rentals to UAE residents. A free zone company may have limitations in terms of direct property transactions within Dubai but can be advantageous for tax and ownership reasons — we’ll go deeper into this in section 7.

Selecting the legal structure and business ownership

Dubai offers multiple legal structures for business in the UAE, and the real estate sector is no exception. The most common legal entities include:

Since 2020, the UAE has allowed 100% foreign ownership in most business categories, including certain types of real estate businesses, without the need for a local sponsor. However, the exact structure and requirements depend on the activity type and chosen jurisdiction.

Choosing the correct structure is essential, as it affects your ability to sponsor visas, sign contracts, and manage tax and audit obligations. It’s advisable to consult a business setup consultant or legal advisor familiar with the real estate market in Dubai.

Understanding regulatory bodies and their roles

When starting a real estate business in Dubai, it’s essential to understand which organizations govern the sector and what responsibilities they hold:

• Dubai Land Department (DLD): the main authority responsible for all real estate transactions, ownership transfers, and regulatory oversight. The DLD plays a pivotal role in setting up a real estate business.
• Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA): a branch of the DLD that regulates real estate brokerage, enforces training standards, and issues licenses.
• Department of Economy and Tourism (DET, formerly DED): handles the initial trade license registration, legal structure, and name approval for your real estate company.

Additionally, some free zones (such as Dubai Multi Commodities Centre or Dubai Silicon Oasis) offer their own regulatory support and may have slightly different procedures. However, if you want to conduct real estate brokerage directly in the Dubai property market, approval from RERA and DLD is mandatory regardless of your free zone registration.

Once you're familiar with these entities, the real estate company formation process becomes more transparent. These departments form the backbone of Dubai’s real estate sector, ensuring accountability, professionalism, and market integrity.

How much does a real estate broker make in Dubai?

One of the most common questions from aspiring professionals entering the real estate business in Dubai is: how much can a real estate broker actually earn? The answer varies widely depending on experience, network, commission structure, and market conditions — but in 2025, the earning potential remains one of the key attractions of this industry.

Unlike many salaried professions, income in real estate brokerage in Dubai is predominantly commission-based. This means that your monthly earnings are directly tied to the number and value of the deals you close. While this can bring unpredictability in the early stages of your career, it also creates room for exponential income growth once you establish yourself in the market.

Commission structures and average earnings

Real estate brokers in Dubai typically work under a brokerage company and earn a share of the commission charged to clients. Standard commission rates for property sales in Dubai hover around 2% of the transaction value, while rentals usually generate a commission equivalent to 5% of the annual rent.

Here is a breakdown of typical commission splits between agents and their brokerages:

An entry-level broker in 2025 might earn around AED 10,000–15,000 monthly, assuming they close one small deal a month. Experienced agents with a solid network and client base often earn between AED 25,000–70,000 per month, while top producers in large brokerages can exceed AED 100,000 monthly during peak months. It's not unusual for high performers in the real estate sector to make over AED 1 million annually.

Factors influencing broker income

Several factors affect the income of a real estate broker in Dubai, including:

• Market knowledge. Brokers who understand the real estate market and can offer data-driven advice build trust faster and close more deals.
• Specialization. Focusing on a particular niche (e.g., luxury villas, off-plan developments, or commercial properties) allows brokers to become authorities and command higher commission splits.
• Brokerage reputation. Being affiliated with a well-established real estate company in Dubai can provide access to better leads, marketing support, and high-value clients.
• Experience and soft skills. Confidence, negotiation ability, and multilingual communication skills can significantly enhance deal success rates.

Brokers who commit to ongoing RERA training, invest in networking and maintain a client-first attitude often outperform peers over time.

Salary vs. commission-only models

Some brokerages offer a base salary in addition to commissions, particularly to junior brokers or those working on specific projects. However, most real estate brokerage firms in Dubai work on a commission-only model. This is especially true in top-tier companies where brokers have more autonomy and higher earning potential.

Here's a simplified comparison:

Ultimately, the real estate business in Dubai rewards those who are proactive, well-prepared, and persistent. If you’re starting a real estate brokerage career, expect the first few months to be focused on lead generation, learning, and closing your first deals — but once you build momentum, the financial rewards can be significant.

Eligibility conditions for starting a real estate business in Dubai

Starting a real estate business in Dubai in 2025 is both an exciting and highly regulated process. The Dubai government has established clear eligibility conditions to ensure that only qualified and trustworthy individuals and companies operate in the real estate sector. Whether you aim to open a real estate brokerage, consultancy, or property management firm, you must meet the minimum legal and regulatory requirements laid out by the Dubai Land Department (DLD), Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA), and the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET).

The conditions include obtaining the right licenses and permits, fulfilling legal obligations for business setup, and aligning with the DLD’s structural and operational requirements. In this section, we’ll break down what you need to become eligible to set up a real estate company in Dubai.

Required licenses and permits

To operate legally in the real estate sector, entrepreneurs must obtain several licenses and approvals. These are typically acquired in a specific order, starting with the trade license and ending with certification and registration with DLD and RERA.

Here’s what you need:

1. Trade license (from DET or free zone authority). The trade license is the legal foundation for starting a real estate business in Dubai. You must choose a business activity such as “real estate brokerage,” “real estate leasing,” or “real estate consultancy” when applying.
2. RERA registration and broker ID. All individuals involved in real estate brokerage must complete RERA training and pass the RERA certification exam. Upon passing, you’ll receive a broker ID, which is required for all real estate agents in Dubai.
3. Office space lease (Ejari contract). You must secure and register an office space before finalizing most approvals. DLD and RERA require a valid Ejari (tenancy contract registration system) for licensing.
4. Initial approval and company name reservation. Before acquiring your license, you need initial approval from DET and a reserved company name.
5. Special approval from the DLD (for real estate-related activities). This is mandatory for brokerage firms and property managers. DLD ensures that your business aligns with the city's real estate laws and that your shareholders meet the eligibility standards.
6. Memorandum of Association (MOA). This outlines the responsibilities of shareholders and the scope of your real estate business.

Without these approvals and permits, your business cannot legally operate in the Dubai real estate market.

Legal requirements

Setting up a real estate company in Dubai requires meeting several legal obligations depending on your chosen business structure and activity. These ensure the company is compliant and trusted by both regulators and clients.

Key legal requirements include:

• Shareholder documentation: all shareholders must provide valid passports, visa copies (if applicable), Emirates IDs (for residents), and proof of address.
• Minimum capital requirements: while Dubai has removed minimum capital requirements for many businesses, certain real estate activities — especially development — still require proof of capital reserves.
• Company formation documents: includes Articles of Association, MOA, and shareholder resolutions (if applicable).
• Location compliance: the office must be in a zone approved for real estate operations. For example, brokerage firms must lease office space within designated areas.
• Staff visa eligibility: your legal structure must allow you to sponsor staff and apply for residency visas, including those of agents and administrative staff.

These legal steps ensure your company is not only registered but also legally enabled to carry out day-to-day business operations in the UAE.

DLD requirements for each type of business

The Dubai Land Department has specific requirements based on the type of real estate company being registered. Whether you're starting a real estate brokerage, consultancy, or property management company, the DLD has distinct standards that must be met.

Here’s a breakdown:

For real estate brokerage, one of the most essential steps is completing the RERA training, which is offered both online and in person. This training provides legal, market, and procedural knowledge and is a prerequisite for obtaining your RERA ID.

Additionally, some businesses must register on the Trakheesi system, which is an electronic permit system used to manage marketing and listing permissions for real estate companies in Dubai. Without Trakheesi permits, no property listings or advertisements are allowed.

By complying with these DLD requirements, you ensure your company can operate transparently, legally, and professionally in Dubai’s competitive real estate market.

Step-by-step guide for starting a real estate business in Dubai

Starting a real estate business in Dubai can seem overwhelming at first, given the multiple government entities involved and the legal nuances specific to the UAE. However, when broken down into clear steps, the process becomes highly manageable. This section provides a detailed, actionable roadmap that simplifies how to set up a real estate company in Dubai, whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or an established investor expanding into the UAE property market.

Following these steps will ensure your company is compliant with the Dubai Land Department, RERA, and other regulatory authorities, while also laying a solid operational foundation.

Step 1. Define your business activity and model

Before anything else, you must decide what kind of real estate business in Dubai you wish to establish. Will it be a brokerage firm, a property management company, a consultancy, or a development entity? Each of these activities has distinct licensing requirements and operational expectations. This is a key starting point that shapes every other step.

Once the activity is defined, choose whether you’ll operate in a mainland jurisdiction or within one of Dubai’s free zones. Mainland setups are typically preferred for real estate brokerage because of fewer restrictions in dealing directly with the local market.

Step 2. Reserve a trade name

The next step is to select and reserve a trade name for your real estate company in Dubai. Your chosen name must comply with the naming conventions outlined by the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) — for example, it must not contain religious references or offensive language and should reflect the nature of your business. The name is reserved online through the Dubai Business Registration Portal.

Step 3. Obtain initial approval from the DET

Before proceeding with license issuance, you need initial approval from DET. This confirms that your business activity is permitted in the UAE and that you can legally proceed with company registration. You’ll submit passport copies, visa pages (if applicable), and basic business details at this stage.

Step 4. Finalize office space and secure an Ejari contract

As per RERA and DLD rules, real estate businesses must operate from a physical office in an approved location. You’ll need to sign a tenancy agreement for commercial office space and register it through the Ejari system. The Ejari contract is mandatory to proceed with trade license issuance and RERA approval.

Make sure your office space meets RERA’s minimum office size standards (typically 200 sq. ft. or more, depending on the number of brokers registered) and is located in a permitted commercial area.

Step 5. Prepare legal documents and sign the MOA

At this stage, you’ll prepare all necessary legal documents, including the MOA, shareholder agreements, and tenancy documentation. If you’re forming an LLC, the MOA must be notarized by a Dubai public notary.

If your business setup involves multiple shareholders or partners, clearly outline each person’s role, capital contribution, and profit-sharing structure.

Step 6. Apply for a real estate license

Using the documents prepared above, apply for your real estate business license through DET (for the mainland) or the relevant free zone authority. Your selected activity — such as “real estate brokerage” or “leasing and management” — must appear on the license. This license is the official document that allows you to operate as a real estate company in Dubai.

If you are operating in a free zone, note that you may need to get separate permissions from the DLD and RERA to conduct certain real estate brokerage or sales functions.

Step 7. Complete RERA training and pass the exam

If your company is involved in real estate brokerage, each broker must complete RERA training through the Dubai Real Estate Institute (DREI). The training course covers UAE real estate law, ethics, marketing, and market analysis. After the course, you must pass the RERA certification exam to obtain a Broker ID.

This step is mandatory and applies to all individuals involved in sales or leasing activities. Without RERA certification, you cannot legally represent clients in property transactions.

Step 8. Register your company with the DLD and Trakheesi

Once your trade license and broker IDs are secured, your real estate company must register with the Dubai Land Department and the Trakheesi system. This registration allows you to advertise properties, list them on portals, and issue digital permits for marketing campaigns.

DLD registration also enables access to transaction platforms, escrow services, and compliance portals that support your business operations.

Step 9. Hire staff and apply for visas

Now that your real estate company is fully established, you can begin hiring employees and applying for residency visas. The number of visas you can sponsor depends on your office space size and business activity. In general, each broker or admin staff member will require:

• A residency visa
• A labor card
• Medical insurance and Emirates ID

Be sure to comply with UAE labor laws and onboarding procedures.

Step 10. Open a corporate bank account

To manage transactions, commissions, and salaries, you’ll need a corporate bank account. UAE banks will require your trade license, MOA, office lease, and passport copies of shareholders and signatories. Expect banks to conduct compliance checks and assess the nature of your business in detail, especially if you’re in the real estate sector.

Opening a bank account can take 1–3 weeks depending on the institution and documentation.

This step-by-step guide provides a clear foundation for setting up a real estate business in Dubai. Following each stage in order ensures a smoother process and full regulatory compliance, setting you up for long-term success in the real estate market.

Organizations responsible for licensing real estate companies

When starting a real estate business in Dubai, one of the most critical aspects to understand is the network of regulatory and licensing bodies that govern the industry. These organizations not only issue the required permits but also enforce compliance, manage training, and ensure market transparency. Each authority has its distinct role in supporting the real estate sector while protecting investors, buyers, and tenants.

Whether you're planning to start a real estate brokerage or a property management company, knowing which organization oversees what part of the process is essential for a smooth setup.

Dubai Land Department (DLD)

The Dubai Land Department (DLD) is the primary government body that manages and regulates all matters related to real estate in Dubai. Established in 1960, the DLD plays a central role in facilitating property transactions, maintaining legal ownership records, and promoting investment in Dubai’s real estate market.

Key responsibilities include:

• Issuing registration certificates for real estate companies
• Managing the Trakheesi system for advertising permits
• Monitoring escrow accounts for property developers
• Providing legal documentation for property transfers
• Approving licenses for brokerage and property management companies in coordination with RERA

Any real estate company in Dubai that deals with property sales, leasing, or development must be registered with the DLD. For activities like off-plan development or brokerage, DLD approvals are mandatory regardless of your company’s free zone or mainland status.

Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA)

RERA is a regulatory arm of the DLD and is directly responsible for overseeing real estate brokerage activities, agent licensing, and ethical conduct in the real estate market. If you're setting up a real estate brokerage, RERA is the authority that grants the necessary licenses and ensures you meet professional standards.

RERA’s core responsibilities include:

• Conducting rera training courses and certification exams
• Issuing broker IDs and licenses
• Monitoring compliance with advertising rules and ethics
• Approving office space size and broker-to-office ratio
• Regulating commission structures and dispute resolution

All real estate brokers must pass the RERA exam to legally operate in the Dubai real estate sector. Moreover, RERA also inspects companies to ensure adherence to advertising, client communication, and data protection standards.

Department of Economy and Tourism (DET)

The Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) — formerly known as the Department of Economic Development (DED) — is responsible for issuing trade licenses for businesses operating on the Dubai mainland. It is the first point of contact when registering any type of business in Dubai, including real estate firms.

DET's responsibilities include:

• Trade name reservation and initial approval
• Issuing and renewing trade licenses
• Defining business activity codes (such as real estate brokerage, property leasing, etc.)
• Overseeing corporate legal structures (LLC, sole proprietorship, civil company)

While DET handles the general business licensing, final approval for real estate activities is always subject to DLD and RERA regulations.

Free zone authorities

If you choose to set up your real estate company in one of Dubai’s free zones, your business will fall under the jurisdiction of a specific free zone authority, such as:

• Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC)
• Dubai Silicon Oasis Authority (DSOA)
• Dubai World Trade Centre Free Zone (DWTC)

Free zone authorities handle:

• Issuing trade licenses for companies within the zone
• Managing office space leases and visa quotas
• Facilitating business registration without local sponsorship

However, it’s important to note that real estate brokerage licenses issued by free zones do not automatically grant permission to operate in the Dubai property market. If you intend to engage in property sales, leasing, or brokerage within Dubai, you must still obtain approval from the DLD and RERA.

Other supporting entities

In addition to the core regulators, other entities also play a role in the functioning of a real estate business in Dubai:

• Dubai Real Estate Institute (DREI): offers RERA training and continuous education programs for brokers and real estate professionals.
• Dubai Municipality: oversees land zoning, building regulations, and urban planning.
• Dubai Courts and Arbitration Centres: handle real estate disputes and enforce contracts when disagreements arise.
• Banks and Escrow Services: required for real estate developers to manage buyer funds legally and transparently.

Understanding the interplay between these organizations is crucial when setting up a real estate company in Dubai. By staying compliant with their regulations and working within their frameworks, you reduce risk, gain credibility, and increase the chances of success in the real estate market.

Estimated costs of starting a real estate business in Dubai

Starting a real estate business in Dubai requires a well-structured financial plan. While the Emirate is known for its pro-business policies and ease of doing business, entrepreneurs should be prepared for various startup and operational costs associated with launching a fully licensed real estate company. These costs can vary depending on factors such as company structure, location (mainland vs. free zone), office size, visa requirements, and the number of brokers you plan to employ.

This section breaks down the typical costs you can expect in 2025 when starting a real estate company in Dubai.

Breakdown of key startup expenses

Below is a general overview of the main expenses involved in setting up a real estate business in Dubai. Note that these are estimated ranges and actual costs may vary based on your specific setup:

Total estimated setup cost: AED 45,000 – AED 100,000+

These figures are indicative and do not include optional expenses such as branding, website development, marketing, or legal consultation, which can further raise your startup costs.

Free zone vs. mainland cost comparison

Choosing between a mainland and a free zone setup has a direct impact on your initial costs and ongoing expenses. Free zones may offer lower licensing fees and simplified incorporation processes but with operational limitations, especially in the real estate brokerage space.

Here’s a simplified comparison:

If you plan to operate in the real estate brokerage segment directly in Dubai’s market, a mainland license is usually the better (and often necessary) choice.

Recurring annual costs

After the initial setup, you’ll need to budget for ongoing operational expenses. These can include:

• License renewal fees: AED 10,000 – 15,000 annually
• Office rent: depending on the location, expect annual costs from AED 15,000 for shared spaces to AED 100,000+ for premium offices
• Visa renewal and employee insurance: AED 3,000 – 6,000 per person yearly
• Trakheesi permit renewals: fees apply per listing
• Marketing and portal listings: PropertyFinder, Bayut, Dubizzle, etc., can cost AED 3,000 – 20,000+ monthly depending on the package
• Banking and accounting services: AED 5,000 – 10,000+ per year depending on business complexity

Being aware of these costs upfront helps ensure that your real estate business remains financially sustainable and compliant throughout its operation.

Understanding the full cost structure is crucial before you open a real estate company in Dubai. Whether you're aiming for a lean startup or planning a premium brokerage, having a financial roadmap will help you allocate capital wisely and scale with confidence in the real estate sector.

Choosing the office location for your real estate company

Selecting the right office location is a strategic decision when starting a real estate business in Dubai. Your office serves not only as a base of operations but also as a representation of your brand. Furthermore, it’s a regulatory requirement — both the Dubai Land Department (DLD) and the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) require a valid office lease (Ejari) before issuing or renewing licenses.

In 2025, the real estate sector in Dubai continues to grow rapidly, and competition is strong. Where and how you set up your office can affect everything from operational efficiency to client perception, recruitment, and even how many employee visas you can apply for. This section explores the available options, benefits of free zones, and legal considerations when setting up your office space.

Options for the office location

When choosing your office space, there are several practical options to consider. Each comes with different cost levels, prestige factors, and compliance requirements.

1. Business districts

These include areas like Business Bay, Sheikh Zayed Road, Downtown Dubai, and DIFC. Offices here offer high visibility and prestige — ideal for client-facing real estate companies.

• Pros: prime location, easy access, prestigious image
• Cons: high rent, competitive market

2. Emerging commercial zones

Areas like Jumeirah Lake Towers (JLT), Al Barsha, and Dubai Silicon Oasis offer lower rents while still maintaining a professional presence.

• Pros: cost-effective, proximity to residential hubs
• Cons: less central, may not suit luxury-focused firms

3. Free zone facilities

Some free zones offer shared or flexi-desk spaces for startups or boutique agencies. These are suitable for companies not directly engaging in property transactions within Dubai but handling support services or international clients.

• Pros: affordable, fast registration
• Cons: limitations on real estate brokerage unless approved by DLD/RERA

4. Shared or serviced offices

For new businesses, serviced offices (like Regus, Servcorp, or Astrolabs) can reduce upfront costs while still offering Ejari-compliant spaces.

• Pros: ready-to-move-in, includes utilities
• Cons: limited customization, smaller space

Your chosen office must meet RERA’s space requirements — typically starting at 200 square feet — and must be in a commercially zoned building.

Are free zones a better option?

Whether a free zone is better than a mainland setup depends entirely on your business goals. While free zones offer attractive benefits, such as 100% foreign ownership and reduced startup costs, they are not always suitable for all types of real estate businesses in Dubai.

Pros of setting up in a free zone:

• Full foreign ownership
• Tax exemptions
• Simplified incorporation process
• Access to coworking and flexi-desk options
• Faster registration timelines

Cons for real estate brokerage:

• You cannot engage in property brokerage or leasing activities directly within Dubai without special approval from the Dubai Land Department
• Your company may face limitations when advertising or listing properties
• You may need additional mainland licensing to legally transact in the local market

In summary, free zones are great for real estate consultancies, international property marketing agencies, or tech startups serving the real estate sector. But if you plan to act as a real estate brokerage firm directly dealing in property sales or rentals in Dubai, a mainland license with DLD and RERA approval is typically the only viable option.

Legal considerations for setting up an office space

Beyond location and cost, there are several legal considerations to address when setting up your office space:

• Ejari registration is mandatory: your office lease must be registered in the Ejari system to proceed with DLD and RERA licensing.
• The office must be in a commercial zone: residential buildings cannot be used for real estate business offices.
• Office size must match staff and license type: RERA may deny additional broker IDs if your space is too small.
• Approved layout plans may be required: some jurisdictions require submission of a layout plan, especially for larger offices or newly built units.
• Signage and branding must follow rules: in some buildings or areas, external signage must comply with specific visual guidelines and building rules.

It’s also worth noting that office space directly impacts your ability to apply for visas — larger spaces typically allow more visa allocations.

Before signing a lease, verify with your licensing consultant or legal advisor that the building is fully compliant and registered under the appropriate zoning category.

The right office space is more than just a regulatory checkbox — it sets the tone for your entire real estate business in Dubai. By choosing wisely and staying compliant, you position your company for growth, credibility, and operational stability in one of the world's most dynamic property markets.

Benefits of starting a real estate business in Dubai

Dubai is widely regarded as one of the most attractive cities in the world for launching and growing a real estate business. With its booming property sector, investor-friendly regulations, and international appeal, the city offers a wide range of advantages for both new and experienced entrepreneurs. In 2025, the opportunities are more compelling than ever, especially for those who understand how to navigate the regulatory landscape and build sustainable operations.

This section outlines the key benefits of starting a real estate business in Dubai and explains why so many investors and professionals continue to enter the market each year.

Access to a thriving property market

Dubai’s real estate market is one of the most active and resilient in the world. Following strong growth over the past three years, 2025 is expected to continue the upward trend, driven by population growth, economic diversification, and global investor interest.

Key indicators of market strength include:

• High return on investment (ROI) in rental properties, averaging 6–8% annually
• Strong demand for both off-plan and ready-to-move properties
• Continued infrastructure development (e.g., Dubai Metro expansion, waterfront communities)
• Growth in commercial and hospitality real estate due to business tourism and relocation

The diverse property landscape — from luxury villas to affordable apartments — gives real estate companies the ability to specialize in different niches and customer segments.

Business-friendly environment

The UAE is globally recognized for its pro-business policies. Dubai, in particular, offers one of the most streamlined regulatory environments in the region. This makes it easier for entrepreneurs to open and run their companies without unnecessary red tape.

Advantages include:

• No personal income tax
• 100% foreign ownership (for most activities)
• Fast-track business registration processes
• Multiple free zones offering tailored support for startups
• Digital government platforms for licensing, visa applications, and renewals

This ecosystem encourages innovation, reduces bureaucracy, and enables you to focus on growing your real estate business in Dubai.

High earning potential

The real estate sector in Dubai is known for offering significant income opportunities, particularly in real estate brokerage. Since brokers work on commission, earnings are performance-driven, and there is no hard cap on income.

• Experienced agents can earn AED 500,000 to 1 million+ per year
• Top brokerages offer 70%+ commission splits to high-performers
• Developers often offer incentives to real estate companies for off-plan sales

In addition to commissions, real estate companies often generate income from service fees, leasing commissions, property management contracts, and consulting services.

Strategic geographic location

Dubai’s position as a global hub gives your business access to a vast network of buyers, investors, and partners across Europe, Asia, and Africa. The city's connectivity through major airlines and business-friendly visa policies make it easier to attract international clients and build cross-border relationships.

This is especially advantageous if you are starting a real estate business that deals with high-net-worth individuals, overseas investors, or corporate relocation services.

Transparent legal framework

Thanks to the efforts of RERA, DLD, and other government entities, Dubai has built a strong legal framework to regulate and protect the interests of investors, tenants, and real estate professionals.

Transparency is reinforced through:

• Mandatory RERA training for all brokers
• The Trakheesi system for advertising permits
• Strict laws against misleading listings and practices
• Legal escrow systems for off-plan projects
• Defined commission rates and ethics guidelines

This level of oversight makes Dubai one of the most professionally regulated real estate markets in the region — a major advantage for any company that values integrity and long-term trust.

Diverse client base and growing demand

Dubai's population continues to grow, driven by international migration, remote workers, and business relocations. The real estate sector benefits from steady demand for rental and owned properties across all price points.

Additionally:

• New visa types (e.g., Golden Visa, Green Visa) allow long-term residency for property owners
• Expat-friendly policies encourage foreign investment in real estate
• Major global events (like COP28 and Expo legacy projects) bring in more visitors and tenants

With a broad and growing client base, a real estate business in Dubai can scale quickly through strong marketing, strategic partnerships, and multilingual service.

From a thriving real estate market to a transparent legal system and unmatched earning potential, the benefits of starting a real estate business in Dubai are compelling. Entrepreneurs who align themselves with the city’s vision for growth and innovation are well-positioned for long-term success in the real estate sector.

Conclusion

Starting a real estate business in Dubai in 2025 offers an exceptional opportunity for entrepreneurs, brokers, and investors looking to tap into one of the most dynamic property markets in the world. With its pro-business environment, transparent regulations, high demand, and attractive returns, Dubai continues to set the standard for real estate investment and professional services across the region.

To successfully start a real estate business in Dubai, you must take a structured approach — from selecting your business model and completing RERA training to securing your office space and registering with the Dubai Land Department. Each step plays a crucial role in ensuring that your company is both legally compliant and operationally effective.

As we’ve explored in this guide, the process involves more than just paperwork. It requires an understanding of the legal framework, cost planning, strategic decisions about free zones versus mainland setups, and long-term positioning in a competitive real estate market. However, with the right preparation and expert guidance, you can confidently start a real estate company in Dubai and scale it into a thriving, high-performing business.

Dubai’s real estate sector in 2025 remains a land of opportunity — not just for sales and leasing, but also for innovation, sustainability, and international collaboration. Whether you're starting a real estate brokerage, launching a consultancy, or investing in off-plan development, the city offers the resources, infrastructure, and global reach to turn your vision into a lasting business success.

FAQs

1. Can foreigners start a real estate business in Dubai?

Yes, foreigners can start a real estate business in Dubai. As of recent reforms, 100% foreign ownership is allowed for many types of businesses, including real estate. However, for certain activities like real estate brokerage, you must still comply with DLD and RERA requirements and operate from an approved office space.

2. Do I need a local sponsor to open a real estate company in Dubai?

No, a local sponsor is no longer required for most real estate activities under the new commercial company laws. Foreigners can fully own their real estate company in Dubai, especially when registering as a mainland LLC or within specific free zones.

3. Is RERA certification mandatory for all brokers?

Yes, RERA certification is mandatory for any individual involved in selling or leasing property in Dubai. Completing the RERA training and passing the final exam are required steps before you can legally work as a broker or obtain a RERA broker ID.

4. How long does it take to start a real estate company in Dubai?

Typically, it takes 2 to 4 weeks to set up a real estate business in Dubai, assuming all documentation is in order. This includes trade license issuance, office lease registration, RERA certification, and bank account opening.

5. Can I set up my company in a free zone and still sell properties in Dubai?

You can register in a free zone, but if you plan to actively sell or lease properties in Dubai, you’ll need additional approvals from RERA and DLD. Free zone companies are better suited for support services or international real estate consultancies rather than direct brokerage.

6. What is the minimum investment required to start a real estate business in Dubai?

The initial investment ranges from AED 45,000 to AED 100,000 or more, depending on office location, license type, number of brokers, and visa requirements. This includes government fees, training, office rent, and setup costs.

7. What are the most profitable areas for real estate brokerage in Dubai?

Popular and high-demand areas include Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, Business Bay, Palm Jumeirah, JVC, and off-plan communities like Dubai South and Emaar Beachfront. Specializing in a niche — such as luxury, rentals, or off-plan — can also impact profitability.

8. What are the ongoing costs of running a real estate company in Dubai?

Recurring costs include license renewals, office rent, staff visas, Trakheesi permits, advertising platform subscriptions (Property Finder, Bayut), and banking or accounting services. Budgeting AED 70,000–150,000 annually is a realistic starting point for small to mid-sized companies.

9. How many visas can I get for my real estate company?

Visa quotas are tied to your office space size and license type. Generally, one visa per 100 square feet of office space is permitted, but this can vary depending on the jurisdiction and regulatory approvals.

10. Is Dubai a good place to invest in real estate long-term?

Yes. Dubai offers high rental yields, no property tax, freehold ownership rights for foreigners, and growing demand driven by population growth and global relocation. With initiatives like the Golden Visa and infrastructure expansion, long-term investment prospects remain strong.