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A playbook for setting up a Dubai real estate brokerage in 2026: DET mainland licence, RERA office registration, individual broker certification through DREI, office requirements and timelines.
The UAE property market is one of the largest in MENA with over AED 500 billion in annual transactions. Dubai Land Department (DLD) through its Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) licenses brokers, and 100 percent foreign ownership is allowed for brokerage activities since 2021.
Setup is Dubai mainland (DET) only. Free zone brokerages cannot transact Dubai mainland real estate directly.
Every individual broker working for the brokerage needs RERA certification:
Realistic numbers for a new Dubai real estate brokerage:
No for Dubai mainland transactions. Dubai Land Department requires brokers to hold a DET mainland trade licence. Some free zones (like Meydan) offer property consultancy activities, but these do not allow direct Dubai mainland brokerage transactions.
Total first-year setup is typically AED 50,000 to AED 100,000 including DET licence, RERA registration, Ejari-registered office, chamber membership and 1 to 2 visas. Add AED 2,500 to AED 3,500 per broker for DREI course and RERA certification.
No. Since 2021 100 percent foreign ownership is allowed for brokerage activities. The old requirement for a UAE National Service Agent has been removed for most property activities.
No. DLD and RERA require an Ejari-registered physical office with signage, broker directory, meeting rooms and compliant layout. Flexi-desk and virtual offices do not meet the brokerage office requirements.
Real Estate Regulatory Agency, part of Dubai Land Department. RERA licenses the brokerage office and certifies each individual broker working for it. Without RERA Broker ID an individual cannot legally sell, lease or advise on Dubai property.
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