Quick Highlights:

• Market Opportunity: Brokers generated AED 3.23 billion in commissions in H1 2025 alone.​
• Entry Barrier: Requires a 4-day DREI training, passing the RERA exam, and a valid UAE residency.
• Competition: You will be competing against over 29,500 registered brokers in a high-stakes environment.​
• Earning Potential: Exceptional elite performers can earn AED 50,000+ monthly, though average experienced agents earn AED 20,000-30,000.

With the market hitting record highs—real estate brokers generated over AED 3.23 billion in commissions just in the first half of 2025—the opportunity is massive. But so is the competition. You aren’t just walking into a job; you are entering a high-stakes arena with over 29,500 registered brokers and 1,223 registered brokerage offices as of 2025.​

If you are ready to hustle, the rewards are life-changing. But first, you need to navigate the maze of RERA regulations, Trakheesi permits, and strict visa rules. 

Here is your no-nonsense, step-by-step blueprint to becoming a licensed real estate agent in Dubai in 2026.

Disclaimer: All prices and regulations mentioned are for informational purposes only. Government fees are subject to change. Always verify the latest costs with the Dubai Land Department or RERA directly.

Eligibility Requirements to Become a Real Estate Agent in Dubai

Before you start dreaming of commissions, you need to check if you legally qualify. Dubai’s Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) is strict, and there are no shortcuts.

1. Age and Education Criteria

To get your license, you must be at least 21 years old. There is no upper age limit, but you need the energy to keep up with this fast-paced market.

Academically, the barrier to entry is reasonable. You need a High School Diploma (or equivalent secondary education) at minimum. If you hold a university degree, it can sometimes simplify the exam process, but it’s not mandatory for the basic license.

2. Residency Status Requirements

You cannot just fly in on a tourist visa and start selling villas. You must have a valid UAE Residency Visa and an Emirates ID to apply for your license.

Most aspiring agents follow this path:

• Employment Visa: You find a brokerage first, and they sponsor your work visa. This is the most common route.
• Family Sponsorship: If you are sponsored by a spouse or parent, you can apply for a labor card to work as an agent.
• Golden Visa: If you are a high-net-worth investor (owning property worth AED 2M+) or a skilled professional earning a basic salary of AED 30,000/month (excluding allowances), you might qualify for a 10-year UAE Golden Visa.​ Duration varies by investment category; verify with ICP for latest requirements. 

Worth Noting: Many people ask, “Can I get hired before I have my license?” The answer is yes. In fact, most brokerages will hire you first, sponsor your visa, and then guide you through the licensing process. You just can’t legally negotiate deals until that card is in your hand.

3. Background Check Requirements

Trust is the currency of Dubai’s property market. To prove you are trustworthy, you must submit a Police Clearance Certificate (Good Conduct Certificate) from Dubai Police. This ensures you have a clean criminal record.

Step-by-Step Process to Obtain RERA License in 2026

Ready to start? Here is the exact roadmap to getting your RERA card.

Step 1: Secure Residence Visa and Emirates ID

You can’t register for the exam without your Emirates ID. If you don’t have residency yet, your first “sale” is selling yourself to a brokerage that will hire and sponsor you. Expect the visa process to take 2-4 weeks. Ensure your Emirates ID is physically in your hand or the digital version is active before moving to Step 2.

Step 2: Register with Dubai Real Estate Institute (DREI)

You must complete the Certified Training for Real Estate Brokers course. This is non-negotiable.

• Where: RERA-approved training centers.
• Duration: Typically 4-5 days (intensive).
• Cost: Approximately AED 3,000 – AED 5,000 (depending on the center).​

The course covers everything from the Code of Ethics to understanding Jointly Owned Property Laws. Pay attention—this isn’t just theory; it’s what keeps you out of legal trouble later.

Step 3: Pass the RERA Examination

Once trained, you sit for the RERA exam administered by the Dubai Land Department (DLD).

• Format: Multiple-choice questions.
• Passing Score: You typically need 60-70% to pass.
• Fee: Approximately AED 700 – AED 800.​

Is it hard? Most agents say it’s manageable if you studied the DREI manual. If you fail, you can retake it, but you’ll have to pay the exam fee again.

Step 4: Apply for RERA Registration Card via Trakheesi System

Trakheesi is the DLD’s smart system for all real estate permits. Once you pass your exam, you (or your brokerage’s PRO) will upload your documents here:

1. Passport & Visa copy.
2. Emirates ID.
3. Photo (white background).
4. DREI Certificate & Exam Result.
5. Good Conduct Certificate.

Processing is fast—usually 2 to 5 business days.

Step 5: Register with a Licensed Real Estate Brokerage

You cannot be a “freelance” agent floating around without a brokerage (unless you open your own company, which requires much more capital). Your license is linked to your employer’s commercial license.

Note: While freelance permits exist, all real estate agents in Dubai must operate under a licensed brokerage—true independent operation is not permitted under RERA regulations.

Step 6: Complete Post-Registration Requirements

Once approved, you’ll likely need to do biometric registration (fingerprinting) if not already done for your ID. You will then receive your digital Broker Card via the Dubai REST app. Ensure you have mobile access to it; security at gated communities will verify it. (verification recommended with DLD as this may vary.) 

Also Read: UAE Real Estate Market Projected to Reach AED 486.2 Billion by 2030

Total Cost Breakdown for Becoming a Real Estate Agent in Dubai (2026)

Budgeting is crucial. Here is what you should expect to spend to get legally active.

Additional costs may include visa processing (if you are self-sponsored or setting up a company, this can be AED 7,000+) and initial marketing materials (business cards, professional photoshoots).

Understanding the Trakheesi System

You will hear “Trakheesi” every day. It is the centralized digital platform managed by the Dubai Land Department (DLD) for all real estate licensing.

Trakheesi is your digital gateway. You literally cannot work without it.

Core Functions of Trakheesi:

• Broker and Agent Registration: This is where your official license lives.
• License Renewal: You must renew your card annually through this portal.
• Practice Card Issuance: It generates the digital ID you show clients.
• Compliance Tracking: It records any fines or violations against your name.
• Transaction Recording: It verifies that you are a legal agent before you can sign contracts.

How to Access and Navigate the Portal:

You access Trakheesi via the Dubai Land Department website or the Dubai REST App. Once logged in with your UAE Pass, the dashboard allows you to “Apply for a Permit” or “Renew License” with a few clicks. It is user-friendly but strict on documentation.

Importance of Active Status:

If your Trakheesi status is not “Active,” you cannot generate marketing permits. This means you cannot post on Property Finder or Bayut. Listing a property without a valid Trakheesi permit number attracts a fine of AED 50,000.

Career Prospects and Earning Potential in 2026

Let’s talk money. Real estate in Dubai is commission-based. There is rarely a base salary, so “you eat what you kill.”

Commission Structure in Dubai Real Estate

• Residential Sales: The Standard commission is 2% of the property sale price (paid by the buyer).
• Secondary market properties: Buyer pays 2% / Off-plan properties: Developer pays (buyer pays 0%)
• Rental Transactions: Typically 5% of the annual rent value (paid by the tenant).
• Commercial Properties: Ranges from 2% to 10% depending on deal complexity.

(The Math):

• Sell a standard AED 2 Million apartment → AED 40,000 total commission.
• Rent a villa for AED 120,000/year → AED 6,000 total commission.

Agent Commission Splits

You don’t keep the whole check. You split it with your brokerage.

• Entry-Level Agents: 40-50% to You / 60-50% to Brokerage.
• Experienced Agents: 50-60% to You / 50-40% to Brokerage.
• Top Performers: 60-70% to You (or even higher for “super agents”).

While extremely rare, some brokerages offer a small base salary of AED 3,000 – AED 5,000 plus a lower commission split (e.g., 30%). This can be a safety net for beginners, but the big money is in the 0% salary / 50%+ commission model.

Income Reality Check

• Commission-based earning means your income varies monthly.
• The “Valley of Death”: The first 3-6 months are typically challenging as you build your client base.
• Advice: Most Reddit users advise having 3-6 months of financial backup before quitting your job.
• Potential: Successful agents can earn AED 10,000 – AED 50,000+ monthly after establishing themselves.

Key Regulatory Bodies and Their Roles

• Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA):
  • The “Rule Maker.” RERA sets professional standards, issues your license, enforces the code of conduct, and handles complaints/disputes.
• Dubai Land Department (DLD):
  • The “Big Boss.” DLD oversees the entire sector, handles property registration (Title Deeds), manages market data, and implements high-level policy.
• Department of Economic Development (DED):
  • The DED issues the commercial trade licenses for the brokerage companies themselves. They handle business registration requirements to ensure the company exists legally as a business entity in Dubai.

Real-World Challenges Facing Real Estate Agents in Dubai (2026)

Market Saturation and Competition

• There is a high number of licensed agents in the Dubai market.
• Reddit Concern: “Too many agents, not enough strict standards” — competition is intense.
• Differentiation is key. You can’t just be an “agent”; you need to be a specialist.

Client-Related Challenges

• Common Problems Reported on Quora/Reddit:
  • Ghosting: Clients disappearing after you show them 5 properties.
  • Time-Wasters: Dealing with “buyers” who don’t have funds or mortgage pre-approval.
  • Unrealistic Expectations: Sellers asking for 2024 peak prices in a shifting market.
  • Commission Pressure: Clients trying to negotiate your fee down to 1%.

Operational Difficulties

• Managing listings across multiple platforms (CRM management).
• Following up with co-brokers who don’t answer their phones.
• Endless paperwork and documentation (Form A, Form B, and Form F).
• Keeping up with rapidly changing regulations.

Financial Pressures

• No guaranteed salary in most cases.
• Commission-only income structure.
• Initial months with zero or minimal earnings.
• Need for a financial cushion during slow summer months.

Solutions and Success Strategies

• Specialize: Don’t try to sell everything. Focus on specific areas (e.g., Downtown or Marina).
• Rentals First: Start with rentals for quicker transactions and cash flow, then graduate to sales.
• Network: Build a strong network and referral system. Your net worth is your network.
• Continuous Learning: Invest in learning about market trends. Knowledge is your only weapon against competition.
• Tech-Savvy: Leverage CRM tools to track every lead. If you snooze, you lose.

License Renewal and Ongoing Compliance Requirements

Your license is not permanent. You must maintain it.

• Frequency: RERA Broker Cards are valid for one year.
• You must initiate the annual renewal process through Trakheesi before it expires.
• Continuing Education: RERA requires annual compliance requirements, which may include CPD training, refresher courses, or retesting depending on current DLD policy. Verify current renewal requirements with DLD before your expiration date. 
• Fees for Renewal: Approximately AED 520.
• Good Standing: You must have no pending fines or violations.
• Consequences: If your license expires, your Trakheesi access is cut. You cannot list, sell, or sign anything.

Tips for Success as a New Real Estate Agent in Dubai

Getting Started Right

• Choose a reputable brokerage with good training support and lead generation, not just the one with the highest commission split.
• Start with rental properties for quicker transactions.
• Focus on one geographical area initially.
• Build your database systematically from Day 1.
  

Professional Development

• Stay updated on Dubai property market trends.
• Understand financing and mortgage options so you can qualify buyers instantly.
• Learn about Dubai’s different communities and developments in detail.
• Network with other agents—co-broking is 50% of the business.

Marketing Yourself

• Based on Reddit advice, personal branding is crucial.
• Social Media: Leverage LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTok.
• Online Presence: Create a professional profile that showcases your market knowledge, not just sales pitches.

Also Read: 20 Dubai Real Estate Trends for Golden Visa Investors in 2026

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Is the RERA exam difficult?

A: It is moderate. If you study the DREI manual, you will pass. The pass mark is 70-85%.

Q: Can I work part-time?

A: Generally, no. Most brokerages require full-time commitment, and your visa is usually tied to your employer.

Q: Do I need a driver’s license?

A: Yes, absolutely. You will be driving to viewings all day. Taxis are too slow and expensive for this job.

Q: How much money should I save?

A: Have at least 3-6 months of living expenses saved to survive the initial “no income” period.

Start Your Journey with JSB Incorporation

Navigating the RERA licensing process, visa applications, and business setup requirements can be complex. At JSB Incorporation, we simplify the entire journey for you.

Whether you need assistance with your residency visa, require PRO services to handle your documents, or plan to eventually set up your own real estate brokerage, we are here to help.

We handle the paperwork so you can focus on closing deals.

Book your free consultation call today with the experts of JSB Incorporation to learn more.