Dubai is one of the most attractive destinations for entrepreneurs and investors who want to start a real estate business. With a booming property market, world-class infrastructure, and investor-friendly policies, the city continues to offer unmatched opportunities. If you are planning to launch a real estate business in Dubai, you must understand the licensing, legal framework, and setup process.

In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know, along with how a business consultant in Dubai like Nexture can make the process smooth and hassle-free.

Why Start a Real Estate Business in Dubai?

Dubai has positioned itself as a global hub for real estate investment. The reasons include:

• Tax-free policies and attractive incentives.
  
  

• High rental yields compared to other major cities.
  
  

• Growing demand from expats and international investors.
  
  

• A stable regulatory environment backed by the Dubai Land Department (DLD).
  
  

If you want to tap into this profitable market, the first step is understanding the setup requirements.

Step-by-Step Process to Set Up a Real Estate Company in Dubai

Setting up a real estate company involves several steps. Here’s a clear structure:

1. Define Your Business Activity

You need to decide whether you want to operate as a broker, property manager, or developer. This determines the type of license you require.

2. Choose the Appropriate Business Structure

Decide between a mainland or free zone setup:​

• Mainland: Lets you operate anywhere in Dubai and the UAE.

• Free Zone: Provides advantages like 100% foreign ownership and tax exemptions, but may have restrictions on operating within the mainland.

From these, choose your business structure:

• Sole Establishment: Owned and run by one person, giving full ownership and control. The owner is fully liable.

• Civil Company: Best for professional service providers such as real estate consultants. Partners share joint responsibility and liability.

• Limited Liability Company (LLC): A favored option that limits personal liability. Ideal for multiple shareholders (up to 50), offering flexibility with structured legal protection.

If you wish to set up the company with a foreign partner, consider using a Partner Visa. This option allows a foreign individual to legally hold a stake in your business and actively participate in operations. This structure clearly defines the distribution of responsibilities, profits, and liabilities, and also facilitates obtaining a UAE residency visa, enabling foreign partners to reside and work legally within the UAE. Ensure roles and responsibilities are clearly outlined in your Memorandum of Association (MoA) to maintain compliance and effective business operations.

3. Register Your Trade Name

Submit an application to the Department of Economic and Tourism (DET) along with the required documents, such as the passport copies of the owners and proposed company names, complying with DET guidelines.

4. Obtain Initial Approval 

Request initial approval from the DET to proceed with the business setup process. Submit details of the proposed business activity, along with the owners’ and manager’s information.

5. Complete the Memorandum of Association (MoA).

Prepare and notarize the MoA, outlining the company’s structure and operational guidelines.

6. Secure Office Space

Purchase or lease office space and register the tenancy contract with Ejari, Dubai’s rental agreement registration system.

7. Final Submission with DET

Submit all required documents to the DET, including the trade name reservation, initial approval certificate, Ejari, memorandum of association, and passport, Emirates ID, and visa copies of all owners and managers.

8. Register with RERA

Complete the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) registration by submitting the required documents, including proof of training and examination completion, the DET trade license, and Ejari tenancy registration.​

9. Register with the Immigration and Labour Departments

If you plan to hire staff, register with the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) and the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) to manage visas and labor contracts. Provide your company establishment card, passport copies and residency details of owners/managers, and a labor quota approval. This step is crucial for businesses intending to employ foreign nationals.

Important Note:
Real estate brokers employed by your firm must also independently complete RERA-approved training courses and exams to legally operate.

10. Open a Business Bank Account

Establish a UAE business bank account to facilitate financial transactions, manage funds, and comply with regulatory requirements. Required documentation typically includes:

• Trade license and commercial registration documents.

• Passport copies and Emirates IDs of all shareholders/managers.

• Notarized Memorandum of Association (MoA).

• Ejari-registered tenancy agreement.

• Company profile and detailed business plan.

• Proof of UAE residency for shareholders (residence visa).

11. Register with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA).

Ensure compliance with UAE taxation laws by registering your business with the FTA .

Key responsibilities include:

• Obtaining a Tax Registration Number (TRN).

• Understanding VAT obligations and submitting regular tax returns.

• Maintaining accurate financial records as required by law.

This entire process usually takes 4-6 weeks, depending on document preparation, licensing approvals, and office setup.

Why Work With a Business Consultant in Dubai?

The process might look simple, but in reality, it involves complex documentation, legal compliance, and government approvals. This is where a business consultant in Dubai like Nexture becomes valuable.

Here’s How Nexture Helps You:

• Legal Compliance: They ensure your business meets all regulatory requirements from the DLD and RERA.
  
  

• Fast Licensing: They handle the paperwork and communication with authorities to speed up approvals.
  
  

• Tailored Business Setup: Whether you want to start in a free zone or on the mainland, Nexture guides you in choosing the best option.
  
  

• Banking Assistance: They help with opening a corporate bank account.
  
  

• Ongoing Support: From office setup to visa processing, Nexture provides end-to-end solutions.
  
  

With their expertise, you avoid delays, reduce costs, and start your company with confidence.

Conclusion

Starting a real estate business in Dubai is a great opportunity, but it’s important to follow the right steps. From defining your business activities to securing the licenses and RERA certification, each step requires proper planning. Partnering with a trusted business consultant in Dubai, such as Nexture, ensures your journey is smooth, cost-effective, and compliant with all laws.