How to Start a Real Estate Business in Dubai – Complete 2025 Guide

 Based on region, select a location (mainland suburb or free zone), Determine a business structure (such as a Limited Liability Company), Register a business trading name under the Department of Economic Development, Obtain a real estate license through the Trakheesi system, RERA training completion (real estate regulatory agency), Appointment of ejari-accredited rental office along with ejari certified lease, and Final Approval by Dubai Land Department. The Steps mentioned will give you an effortless and automated experience while setting up a business in Dubai. The setup expenses are estimated to range from AED 50,000 to AED 150,000, which includes licenses, marketing, and rent for the office. This is the top line for appreciating the emerging Dubai property market.

Steps to Launch Your Real Estate Business in Dubai

In Dubai, a clear procedure has to be followed in order to establish a real estate business. If completed, they guarantee swift company formation in Dubai, which takes 4-6 weeks.

Step 1: Choose Your Business Location  

Select between a mainland or free zone setup:

• Mainland: You can operate everywhere in the UAE including brokerage for leasing or real estate consultation.


• Free zone: You can enjoy tax exemptions alongside 100% foreign ownership, ideal for real estate development or mortgage consultancy.

Step 2: Pick A Business Structure  

Choose a structure that fits your real estate activities:

• Sole Establishment: Complete control comes with full liability.


• Limited Liability Company (LLC): Protects from liability, which suits real estate brokerage businesses with partners.


• Free Zone Company (FZ Co.): Suitable for free zone setups such as representation offices for real estate.

Step 3: Register Your Trade Name  

Send your trade name applications to the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DED) for approval. Don’t use offending names or those of famous organizations, as The DED make sure each name is compliant to UAE commercial law.

Step 4: Get RERA Certification  

To operate as a real estate broker, you must complete the RERA training course (AED 2,500 – 3,000), then take the examination (AED 3,200 – 6,300) and pass. You will also need a Good Conduct Certificate from Dubai Police and obtain a broker ID from RERA.

Step 5: Create a Memorandum of Association

Your business activities (i.e. real estate evaluations and public auctions) should be included in the Memorandum of Association (MOA) and notarized as required by UAE commercial law. In addition, your company’s purpose and stakeholders’ role needs to be defined.

Step 6: Obtain Office Space

Secure an office and subsequently register it with Ejari, Dubai’s lease registration system. Small size offices start at an estimated AED 20,000 yearly. Also, ensure that your office is compliant and within the size requirements set by DLD and RERA.

Step 7: Obtain a Trade License

Apply for a trade license by submitting relevant documents such as MOA, copyright copies, and Ejari contract to DED or relevant free zone authority. Costs range from AED 12,000 – 20,000. Licenses issued from free zones need a no-objection letter.

Step 8: Register with RERA and DLD

Register your business with RERA and receive DLD’s approval. Trade license alongside RERA certification and Ejari contract need to be submitted. DLD is responsible for ensuring compliance with all real estate transactions by overseeing them.

Step 9: Open a Corporate Bank Account

With your trade license, MOA and Ejari contract, open a corporate bank account. Various banks like Emirates NBD provide tailored corporate banking solutions for real estate companies.

Step 10: Joining the FTA 

Comply with the guidelines set by the Federal Tax Authority by obtaining the Authority’s Tax Registration Number, TRN. For efficient tax management, one should register for VAT and ensure record accuracy in order to avoid any fines.