Dubai’s property sector continues to attract investors, brokers, and entrepreneurs. The city offers strong returns and a clear legal framework. If you want to start a real estate company here, the process involves several regulated steps.
Step 1: Decide your business activity
Real estate in Dubai covers different activities: brokerage, leasing and property management, consultancy, or development. Each has separate rules. For example, brokers must get approval from the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA), while developers need to show capital reserves and open escrow accounts with the Dubai Land Department (DLD).
Step 2: Choose mainland or free zone
You can set up on the mainland or in a free zone. A mainland license lets you deal directly in Dubai’s property market without restrictions. A free zone license offers benefits like tax breaks and 100% ownership. But, to act as a broker in Dubai, you still need DLD and RERA approval even if registered in a free zone.
Step 3: Reserve a trade name
The Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) handles this. Your chosen name should not violate naming rules and must reflect your business activity. Once approved, you can move to initial registration.
Step 4: Secure initial approval
You’ll submit passport copies, visa pages, and business details. DET will confirm your activity is legal. This step clears the way for license application.
Step 5: Lease an office space
Real estate firms in Dubai must have a registered office. The lease must be recorded through Ejari, the tenancy registration system. RERA also requires a minimum office size for brokerages, usually starting from 200 square feet.
Step 6: Prepare legal documents
If you’re forming a company with partners, draft a Memorandum of Association (MOA). This defines roles, capital share, and responsibilities. The MOA must be notarized in Dubai.
Step 7: Apply for a trade license
Using your documents, apply through DET (mainland) or a free zone authority. The license must list your real estate activity, such as brokerage or consultancy. This is your legal right to operate.
Step 8: Complete RERA training and certification
Anyone working as a real estate broker in Dubai must pass RERA training. The Dubai Real Estate Institute provides this course. After passing the exam, you’ll get a Broker ID, which is mandatory for client dealings.
Step 9: Register with DLD and Trakheesi
Your company must be added to the DLD registry and Trakheesi system. Trakheesi permits are needed before advertising or listing properties. Without this, you cannot legally market real estate in Dubai.
Step 10: Open a corporate bank account
UAE banks require your trade license, MOA, office lease, and shareholder details. Expect compliance checks since real estate is a high-value sector. The process may take up to three weeks.
Step 11: Hire staff and arrange visas
Depending on office size and activity, you can apply for residency visas for staff and brokers. This includes Emirates ID, labor cards, and medical insurance.
Costs to expect
Initial setup can range from AED 45,000 to AED 100,000. Main expenses include trade license fees, RERA training, Ejari registration, and office rent. Annual renewals and marketing add to ongoing costs.
Why Dubai is attractive
Dubai’s real estate sector is well-regulated and transparent. Authorities like DLD and RERA maintain high standards, ensuring trust for investors and buyers. With clear steps for registration, entrepreneurs have a solid framework to operate and grow.
Final word
Setting up a real estate company in Dubai requires planning, approvals, and compliance. From trade licenses to RERA training, every step matters. By following regulations and securing the right structure, you can build a business that thrives in one of the world’s most dynamic property markets.
Business Registration in Dubai is not only straightforward but also rewarding for those who prepare well. Partnering with experts in Business Registration in Dubai can further ease the process and ensure long-term success.
Looking to register your real estate company in Dubai hassle-free? AR Associates offers end-to-end support, from licensing to RERA certification. Contact AR Associates today and launch your business with confidence.
