Real Estate Licensing in UAE: What You Need to Know
Real Estate License in UAE 2025 | Complete Guide for Investors & Agents
Learn how to get a real estate license in the UAE. This 2025 guide covers requirements, costs, and steps for agents, brokers, and investors looking to enter Dubai and UAE’s property market.
The UAE real estate market continues to be one of the most attractive in the world. With Dubai’s skyline expanding and Abu Dhabi’s property sector growing, real estate has become a key driver of the economy.
But before you can operate as a real estate broker, agent, or property manager, you need to obtain the right license. Without it, you risk legal issues and losing trust with clients.
This blog will guide you through everything you need to know about real estate licensing in the UAE in 2025 — from requirements and costs to step-by-step application.
1. Why Do You Need a Real Estate License in the UAE?
Real estate is a regulated sector in the UAE. To protect buyers, sellers, and investors, the government requires brokers and agencies to be properly licensed.
✅ It builds trust with clients.
✅ It ensures compliance with UAE laws.
✅ It gives you access to RERA-approved transactions.
✅ It allows you to advertise and sell legally.
Whether you want to manage properties, broker deals, or work with investors, a real estate license is your entry ticket.
2. Types of Real Estate Licenses in the UAE
Depending on your goals, you may need one of the following:
Real Estate Agent License (RERA License in Dubai)
Issued by the Dubai Land Department (DLD) through RERA.
Required for individuals working as property agents.
Real Estate Brokerage License
Required if you want to open a brokerage firm.
Covers company operations, not just individual agents.
Property Management License
Needed for businesses managing rental properties, tenant services, or asset management.
Developer License
Required if you plan to build and sell properties.
3. Requirements for a Real Estate License in Dubai (RERA 2025)
To obtain a real estate license in Dubai, you need to:
Be 21 years or older.
Have a valid residency visa (for expatriates).
Complete the Certified Training for Real Estate Brokers Course from the Dubai Real Estate Institute (DREI).
Pass the RERA exam with at least 75%.
Apply through the Dubai Land Department (DLD).
4. Cost of Real Estate License in Dubai
The cost varies based on the license type and training. As of 2025, typical costs include:
Training course (DREI): AED 2,500 – 3,500
RERA exam: AED 500 – 700
Trade license registration (if opening brokerage): AED 10,000 – 15,000+
Annual renewal: AED 5,000 – 10,000 depending on license type
💡 Note: Fees may differ across Emirates (Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah). Dubai is the most common choice for international investors.
5. Step-by-Step Process to Get a Real Estate License in Dubai
Choose Your License Type – agent, brokerage, or property management.
Register for Training – at the Dubai Real Estate Institute (DREI).
Complete the Course – covering UAE real estate laws, ethics, and property management.
Pass the RERA Exam – achieve 75% or higher.
Apply for License – submit documents (passport, visa, Emirates ID, training certificate).
Obtain Approval – from Dubai Land Department (DLD).
Start Operating – legally as an agent, broker, or firm.
6. Documents Required
Valid passport & visa copy
Emirates ID (for residents)
Education certificate (minimum high school)
Passport photos
Certificate of training completion (from DREI)
7. Real Estate License in Other Emirates
While Dubai requires RERA approval, other Emirates have their own authorities:
Abu Dhabi – Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT).
Sharjah – Sharjah Real Estate Registration Department.
Ras Al Khaimah – Ras Al Khaimah Municipality.
The general process is similar: training, exams, and licensing through the respective authority.
8. Benefits of Getting Licensed in the UAE
Access to one of the world’s fastest-growing real estate markets.
Ability to work with foreign investors & NRIs.
Legal protection under UAE property laws.
Recognition as a trusted professional in a competitive industry.
Conclusion
If you’re serious about building a career or business in the UAE’s booming property market, obtaining a real estate license is non-negotiable.
From RERA training in Dubai to approvals across other Emirates, the process may seem complex — but with the right guidance, it becomes smooth and rewarding.
At Alnaya CSP LLC, we help investors, brokers, and entrepreneurs navigate the real estate licensing process and set up compliant, profitable operations in the UAE.
💼 Ready to start your real estate journey?
👉 alnaya.ae
