A UAE real estate broker licence requires both a DED trade licence and a RERA (Real Estate Regulatory Agency) registration in Dubai — or equivalent authority approval in other emirates. Here is the complete process.
Dubai Real Estate Broker Licence Requirements
To become a licensed real estate broker in Dubai: complete the DREI Certified Training for Real Estate Brokers course (Broker Training Course — BTC); pass the DREI exam with a minimum score of 75%; obtain a Clean Criminal Record from Dubai Police; hold a valid UAE residence visa; have no outstanding fines with RERA or DLD.
Step 1: Complete the DREI BTC Course
The Dubai Real Estate Institute (DREI) runs the mandatory Broker Training Course. Duration: 3 days (classroom or online). Course fee: AED 3,675. Registration: drei.co.ae. After passing the exam, DREI issues a Training Certificate valid for the RERA application.
Step 2: Obtain DED Commercial Licence
Apply for a DED Real Estate Activities licence through Dubai DED. Licence activity: “Real Estate Brokerage” (Activity Code: 7020). Annual DED licence fee: AED 10,000–15,000. Physical office required: yes (an approved address in Dubai — virtual offices are generally not accepted for real estate brokerages).
Step 3: RERA Registration
Apply for RERA Broker Registration through the Dubai REST app or DLD website. Submit: DREI Training Certificate, DED licence, Emirates ID, passport copy, 2 passport photos, and AED 5,010 RERA registration fee. Processing: 5–10 working days. RERA issues a Broker Card valid for 1 year (renewable annually upon completing RERA continuing education).
Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and Other Emirates
Each emirate has its own real estate broker registration system. Abu Dhabi: register with ADREC (Abu Dhabi Real Estate Centre) — Taqyim exam required. Sharjah: register with SRERD (Sharjah Real Estate Registration and Dispute Resolution Department). Requirements vary but all involve a local real estate exam and a mainland DED/equivalent trade licence.