Dubai Launches UAE Real Estate Incubator Program to Empower Emirati Brokers
Dubai has unveiled a new initiative to empower Emiratis in the property sector with the launch of the UAE Real Estate Incubator Program. Spearheaded by the Dubai Land Department (DLD), the programme is part of the national campaign “The Emirates, the Startup Capital of the World”, designed to boost entrepreneurship, create jobs, and strengthen the country’s real estate ecosystem. The announcement was made during a press conference attended by Omar Bu Shehab, Director General of DLD.
Building the Next Generation of Emirati Brokers
In its first phase, the incubator will train 50 Emiratis in two batches of 25, with the first cohort beginning on October 27, 2025. The aim is to graduate 50 full-fledged Emirati-owned real estate companies by the end of 2026. Unlike traditional broker training, this programme focuses on developing entrepreneurs who own and operate their own firms, rather than remaining as independent agents.
“The goal is to build a generation of brokers who master negotiation, innovate, and raise Dubai’s attractiveness and competitiveness,” Bu Shehab said. This statement underscores the broader vision of aligning the programme with Dubai’s long-term development strategies while positioning Emiratis at the forefront of the city’s thriving property sector.
Growing Emirati Presence in Dubai’s Real Estate Sector
Dubai’s real estate market currently has around 30,000 active brokers, of which only 676 are Emiratis. However, the past two years have seen a significant surge in Emirati participation. Since mid-2023, over 1,800 Emiratis have been certified, marking a 180% increase in numbers. Collectively, they have contributed more than Dh10 billion in transactions, reflecting their growing influence in one of the world’s most dynamic real estate markets.
Comprehensive Support for Participants
The incubator offers participants a comprehensive support package that goes beyond training. Services include:
- Specialised training and qualifications through the New Economics Academy
- A dedicated real estate registration trustee
- Shared services in HR, financial management, and technology
- Access to a content creation studio and technology lab
- Partnerships with global broker networks and four leading PropTech companies
- An “Intilaq” license to support graduates in launching their businesses
Abdullah Al Shehhi from DLD explained that the programme aligns with the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), the Dubai Social Agenda 33, and the Real Estate Strategy 2033. These frameworks collectively aim to enhance Emirati competitiveness, strengthen entrepreneurship, and provide sustainable income opportunities for citizens.
Training and Mentorship
The six-month training programme is carefully designed to cover the essential elements of running a real estate business. Participants will learn about company establishment, market analysis, feasibility studies, legal compliance, sales strategies, financing models, and urban planning. Beyond training, graduates will also receive a full year of post-program mentorship from specialised consultants, ensuring continuous support as they transition into running their own firms.
Part of a Larger National Campaign
The incubator is part of a larger national campaign launched on September 21, 2025, by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. The campaign’s ambitious goals include:
- Training 10,000 Emiratis in entrepreneurship
- Supporting 250 new real estate firms owned by Emiratis
- Creating 30,000 jobs in the next five years
- Licensing 500 Emiratis as certified tax agents through the Emirati Tax Agent Programme
- Training 50 Emiratis in producing economic and entrepreneurial content via the Specialised Content Creator Programme
Conclusion
The UAE Real Estate Incubator Program is more than just a training scheme; it is a strategic initiative to empower Emiratis to become leaders in the real estate industry. By combining advanced training, access to resources, partnerships, and long-term mentorship, the programme is set to create a new generation of Emirati-owned real estate companies. With Dubai’s property sector continuing to attract global attention, this initiative ensures Emiratis play a central role in shaping its future while contributing to the UAE’s broader entrepreneurship and economic development goals.
