Obtaining a brokerage license in Dubai is the key to legally mediating deals, whether you plan to connect buyers and sellers of property, trade commodities, or provide investment advice. Dubai’s government has streamlined many processes and offers 100 % foreign ownership in many sectors, but getting licensed still requires careful planning, knowledge of the relevant regulators and a clear understanding of the costs involved. This guide will walk you through the whole process one by one.
Why Dubai Is a Prime Destination for Brokers
Dubai’s economic success is built on low taxes, world‑class infrastructure, and investor‑friendly regulations. In the real estate sector alone, property sales reached US$133 billion in 2024. Demand for qualified brokers is growing: the number of real‑estate broker licences issued in Dubai increased from about 5,000 in 2018 to a projected 10,000 by 2024.
Add the city’s zero‑income tax policy, strategic position bridging Europe, Asia and Africa, a highly diverse population, and government initiatives like the Golden Visa program, and it becomes clear why Dubai attracts brokerage businesses from around the world.
Key advantages:
- Tax‑free environment: corporate and personal income tax rates are zero on qualifying income only and free‑zone companies enjoy additional exemptions.
- Access to global markets: Dubai’s location and world‑class logistics provide access to clients from Europe, Asia and Africa.
- Simple business setup: official processes for registering trade names, securing licences and renting offices are streamlined.
- Strong legal framework: the Dubai Land Department (DLD), Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) and Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) enforce strict anti‑fraud measures, ensuring transparency.
- Full business ownership: foreign entrepreneurs can own 100 % of their company in most sectors.
Dubai’s dynamism is not limited to real estate. Financial services, commodities and technology brokerage sectors are expanding rapidly as the emirate pursues its Economic Agenda 2033 and sustainability goals whether you plan to operate in real estate, finance or commodities, a brokerage licence positions you to benefit from Dubai’s growth.
Understanding Brokerage Licences in Dubai
“Brokerage” refers to the activity of mediating deals or facilitating transactions between parties. Dubai offers different licences depending on what you intend to broker:
| Licence type | Regulator | Permitted activities | Key requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commercial/real estate brokerage licence | Department of Economy & Tourism (DET) and RERA under DLD | Mediation in buying, selling or leasing real estate; connecting investors and developers. Can cover property management, mortgage brokerage or auction organisation. | Must register trade name with DET, complete Dubai Real Estate Institute (DREI) training, pass the RERA exam, obtain a good‑conduct certificate, secure an office and get a broker practice card. |
| Financial broker licence | Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) in the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) or the Securities & Commodities Authority (SCA) for mainland | Trading or advising on financial products (securities, bonds, derivatives). | Applicants need residency visa, professional qualifications (e.g., CFA), financial soundness, compliance with anti‑money laundering rules and approval from DFSA/SCA. |
| General commercial brokerage licence | DET / free‑zone authorities | Acting as intermediary for commercial deals across various sectors (e.g., commodity trading, logistics, corporate services). | Similar to real‑estate brokerage: trade name approval, DET licence, office lease, professional qualifications if required, and potential additional approvals depending on sector. |
Throughout this guide, the term brokerage licence in Dubai refers to licences issued through the Department of Economy & Tourism for companies that will mediate transactions. Where the process diverges for real estate or financial brokerage, the distinctions are highlighted.
Step‑by‑Step Process to Obtain a Brokerage Licence in Dubai
1. Define Your Business Activity and Structure
Your first decision is the scope of your services. Dubai authorities require clear declaration of activities such as property leasing, mortgage brokerage, securities trading or corporate deal facilitation. This choice determines which regulator (DET, RERA or DFSA/SCA) oversees your licence. Selecting the right activity ensures compliance and avoids future penalties.
You must also choose between mainland and free‑zone jurisdiction:
- Mainland (DET licence): allows you to operate anywhere in the UAE. You may need a local service agent but retain full ownership for most activities. Mainland businesses can deal directly with local clients and government projects.
- Free zone: offers 100 % foreign ownership, zero import/export duties and simplified procedures. However, activities may be limited to within the zone unless additional permits are obtained. Examples include DMCC (commodities), DIFC (financial services) and IFZA (general trading).
2. Reserve and Register Your Trade Name
You must select a unique trade name that reflects your brokerage activity and adheres to UAE naming regulations (no offensive words or religious references). Submit the name through the DET or the relevant free‑zone portal; pay the reservation fee (AED 500–2,000) and await approval. Names with words like “international” or “global” may require extra approval. Once approved, you receive a trade‑name certificate valid for a limited time (typically 90 days).
3. Prepare Required Documents
Gather the following documents (exact requirements vary by regulator but generally include):
- Passport copies of all shareholders and managers.
- Emirates ID and residence visa copies (if already a UAE resident).
- Personal photos with white background.
- Certificate of Good Conduct issued by Dubai Police.
- Educational certificates (high‑school diploma or university degree). RERA requires at least a high school certificate for agents; DFSA often expects finance‑related degrees.
- Training certificates: proof of completion of the DREI Real Estate Brokerage course or DFSA‑approved qualifications.
- Memorandum of Association (MOA) or Local Sponsor agreement if required.
- Tenancy contract and Ejari registration for your office space. Mainland brokerages must have a physical office; free zones offer virtual or flexi‑desk options.
- Business plan detailing activities, projected revenues and target markets (may be requested by DFSA/SCA).
4. Complete Mandatory Training and Certification
Real‑estate brokerage (RERA)
All aspiring property brokers must complete the Certified Real Estate Brokerage (RETC) course at the Dubai Real Estate Institute (DREI). The course lasts around 4–5 days and covers UAE property laws, brokerage ethics, sales procedures and contracts. After training, you must pass the RERA exam, which tests your knowledge of laws, regulations and professional practice. A passing score (typically 70 % or higher) allows you to apply for the broker licence.
Exam fees are around AED 700 plus innovation and knowledge fees, while the training course costs AED 2,500–3,500. If you fail, you may retake the exam by paying a re‑examination fee.
Financial brokerage (DFSA/SCA)
Financial brokerage firms must demonstrate their expertise through qualifications such as the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) or other securities certifications. DFSA approval often requires at least one individual authorised as a Licensed Director or Licensed Representative with specific exams. Applicants must also pass fit‑and‑proper assessments covering competence, financial soundness and integrity.
5. Submit Licence Application to the Relevant Authority
With your documents and certificates ready, submit your application through the DET e‑services portal, the relevant free‑zone authority or DFSA. The process typically involves:
- Initial approval: Provide trade‑name certificate and passport copies to obtain a preliminary approval (cost approx. AED 1,000–3,000).
- Licence submission: Upload all required documents and pay licence fees. For mainland real‑estate brokerages, fees start around AED 12,500. Financial broker licence fees vary based on the nature of the activity; DFSA licence applications can range from USD 40,000 upward (specific fees are beyond the scope of this article but can be obtained from DFSA’s schedule).
- Review period: Authorities review your application, which may take 5–10 business days. During this period, they may request additional documents or clarifications.
- Payment and issuance: Once approved, pay the remaining fees and receive your trade licence.
6. Obtain Your RERA/DFSA Practice Card
Holding a DET licence alone does not authorise you to practice. Brokers must register with the relevant regulator and obtain a practice card:
- RERA Broker Card: After obtaining your trade licence, register on the Trakheesi or Dubai REST system. Submit your documents (passport, Emirates ID, Good Conduct certificate, RETC certificate, exam result) and pay the card fee (AED 500 plus exam fee). The card acts as your professional ID and must be renewed annually. RERA also issues cards for categories such as mortgage broker, real estate evaluator and consultant.
- DFSA Authorisation: DFSA issues licences and authorises individuals (Licensed Representatives). After your company licence is approved, individuals must register with DFSA, meet ongoing training requirements and comply with capital adequacy rules.
7. Register with Immigration and Labour Authorities
Upon receiving your licence, register your company with the GDRFA and the Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation to sponsor employee visas. Fees for visas include:
- Investor visa: AED 4,000–7,000.
- Employment visas: AED 3,000–5,000 per employee.
Visa quotas may require a minimum office size; ensure your Ejari contract reflects adequate space.
8. Comply With Additional Sector Requirements
- Property management & third‑party leasing: To manage third‑party properties, brokers must provide a bank guarantee of AED 5 million.
- Real estate development: Licence holders must own the land to be developed and obtain marketing permits.
- Free‑zone licences: A No‑Objection Certificate (NOC) from the free‑zone authority is mandatory.
- Annual tests and training: Brokers must pass the annual RERA test to renew their practice card and complete continuing professional development (CPD) courses.
Costs and Fees Breakdown
Licensing costs vary by jurisdiction and business size. The table below summarises typical expenses for real‑estate brokerage (other sectors may have higher financial‑services fees):
| Cost element | Approximate amount (AED) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Trade licence (real‑estate or commercial brokerage) | 12,500+ | Mainland; free‑zone packages vary. |
| Trade name reservation | 500–2,000 | Paid during Step 2. |
| Initial approval | 1,000–3,000 | DET or free zone. |
| Training course (DREI RETC) | 2,500–3,500 | Mandatory for real‑estate brokers. |
| RERA exam | 500–700 | Additional AED 10 knowledge & innovation fee. |
| Broker card issuance | 500 | Annual renewal required (around AED 510). |
| Office rent | From 15,000/year | Free‑zone flexi desks may lower cost. |
| Investor visa | 4,000–7,000 | Required for owners. |
| Employment visa per employee | 3,000–5,000 | Varies by role. |
| Local sponsor (mainland) fee | 10,000–20,000 | Not required for free‑zone companies. |
| Bank guarantee (property management) | 5,000,000 | For leasing third‑party properties. |
| Annual renewal of trade licence | Similar to initial fee | Renewal required each year. |
Costs can change annually; always check the current fee schedule with DET, RERA or DFSA.
Pro‑Tips and Seasonal Considerations
- Apply outside peak heat: Dubai’s climate is extremely hot from June to September. Scheduling training and appointments between October and April ensures milder weather, longer daylight and less energy spent commuting.
- Avoid major holidays: Government offices operate reduced hours during Ramadan, Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha. Plan submissions and exams around these periods.
- Travel logistics: RERA courses are often held at the Dubai Land Department building on Baniyas Road (close to the Creek in Deira). Arrive early to find parking and carry your documents (passport, Emirates ID, Good Conduct certificate) in both paper and digital formats.
- Office selection: For mainland licences, choose office space near central business districts (e.g., Sheikh Zayed Road or Business Bay) to improve client accessibility. Free‑zone offices can be in DMCC (Jumeirah Lake Towers), DIFC (near Financial Centre Metro) or IFZA (Dubai Silicon Oasis).
- Language support: While English is widely used, some documentation is in Arabic. Work with a translator or PRO service to ensure accurate submissions and avoid delays.
Expanding and Growing Your Brokerage Business
Once licensed, focus on scaling your firm:
- Forge strategic partnerships: Collaborate with complementary businesses (law firms, banks, property developers) to access new clients and share expertise.
- Explore new markets: Leverage Dubai’s brand recognition to expand into new emirates, neighbouring GCC countries or different sectors (e.g., commercial leasing, holiday homes).
- Adopt technology: Implement customer‑relationship management (CRM) systems, AI‑powered analytics and digital marketing platforms to streamline operations and attract clients. Platforms like Dubai REST support remote transactions and digital contract signing.
- Invest in talent: Hire qualified agents with multilingual skills and provide continuous training. Consider acquiring smaller brokerages to expand your client base.
- Maintain compliance: Keep up with regulatory changes, pay fees on time and renew licences annually. Non‑compliance can lead to fines or suspension.
Ready to start your brokerage journey? Contact our team of specialists for personalised guidance through every step of the licensing process. We can help you choose the right jurisdiction, prepare documents, arrange training and ensure compliance so you can focus on growing your new brokerage in Dubai.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long does it take to get a brokerage licence in Dubai?
The entire process, from reserving a trade name to receiving your practice card, typically takes two to six weeks, depending on how quickly you gather the necessary documents, complete the training, and obtain the required approvals. RERA issues practice cards once documents are approved.
Can foreigners own a brokerage company?
Yes. Dubai allows 100 % foreign ownership of commercial and real‑estate brokerage firms, especially in free zones. Mainland licences may require a local service agent but do not require equity ownership by locals.
Do I need a university degree to become a broker?
No. A high‑school diploma is generally sufficient, but completing DREI training and passing the RERA exam are mandatory. Financial brokers may need higher qualifications and industry certifications.
Is a brokerage licence different from a RERA broker card?
Yes. The trade licence issued by DET or a free‑zone authority authorises the company; the RERA/DFSA card authorises the individual to practice. Both are required for real estate or financial brokerage.
What happens if I fail the RERA exam?
You may retake the exam after paying a re‑examination fee. Failing to pass delays your licence application and could lead to additional training costs.
Can I operate without a physical office?
Mainland businesses must have a physical office registered with Ejari. Free zones offer flexi‑desk or virtual office packages, but some regulators (e.g., DFSA) require dedicated office space.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for general informational purposes only. For professional assistance and advice, please contact experts.
