Dubai Real Estate Agent License Guide 2026: Step-by-Step Process, Cost & Salary
Dubai’s property market continues to expand in 2026, attracting investors, developers, and professionals from around the world. If you want to legally buy, sell, or lease property in Dubai, obtaining a Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) Broker Card is mandatory.
This guide explains the full licensing process, costs, salary expectations, and renewal requirements in a clear step-by-step format.
What Is a Dubai Real Estate Agent License?
The Dubai real estate agent license — commonly referred to as the RERA Broker Card — is the official certification that legally allows you to operate as a property broker in Dubai.
It is regulated by:
- Dubai Land Department (DLD)
- Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA)
- Dubai Real Estate Institute (DREI)
Without this license, you cannot legally close property transactions in Dubai.
Who Can Apply in 2026?
To qualify, you must meet the following criteria:
- Minimum age: 21 years
- Valid UAE residency visa
- Minimum high school diploma
- Clean criminal record
- Employment with a registered real estate brokerage
Important: You cannot apply independently. You must be sponsored by a licensed brokerage.
Step-by-Step Process to Get Licensed
Step 1: Get Hired by a Licensed Brokerage
Before starting the process, you must secure employment with a DLD-registered brokerage.
The brokerage will:
- Sponsor your RERA registration
- Register you for training
- Process your Broker Card application
- Submit documents via the Trakheesi system
If you’re looking to join a brokerage, you can apply here:
Join Real Estate
Step 2: Complete DREI Training
You must complete the Certified Training for Real Estate Brokers course at DREI.
Course Details:
- Duration: 4 days
- Topics covered:
- Dubai property laws
- Broker responsibilities
- Real estate contracts
- Ethics & compliance
- Market regulations
For foundational learning before entering the market, explore:
Academy
Step 3: Pass the RERA Exam
After completing training, you must pass the RERA licensing exam.
The exam tests:
- Real estate regulations
- Legal compliance
- Transaction procedures
- Ethical standards
If you pass, you move forward for approval. If you fail, you may retake the exam.
Step 4: Submit Documents via Trakheesi
Your brokerage submits your documents through the Trakheesi system.
Required Documents:
- Passport copy
- Emirates ID
- Visa copy
- Educational certificate
- Good Conduct Certificate
- Passport photo
- Employment contract
Processing usually takes a few weeks.
Step 5: Receive Your RERA Broker Card
Once approved, you receive your official RERA Broker Card.
- Valid for 1 year
- Must be renewed annually
- Required to legally close deals
Dubai Real Estate Agent License Cost (2026)
The total cost varies but generally includes:
- DREI Training Fee: AED 3,000 – 4,000
- RERA Exam Fee: AED 3,200 – 6,300
- License Registration: AED 2,000 – 3,000
- Administrative Fees
Estimated Total Cost: AED 7,500 – AED 11,000+
Some brokerages cover part of the cost.
Real Estate Agent Salary in Dubai (2026)
Most agents work on commission only.
Standard Commission Structure:
- 2% on property sales
- 5% on rentals
- Commission split with brokerage (commonly 50/50)
Example:
Property sale value: AED 2,000,000
2% commission = AED 40,000
50/50 split = AED 20,000 earned
High-performing agents working in prime areas like
Downtown Dubai,
Palm Jumeirah, or
JVC
can generate significant annual income.
How Long Does It Take?
Average timeline:
- Finding brokerage: 2–4 weeks
- DREI training: 4 days
- Exam & approval: 2–4 weeks
Total time: 1–2 months.
Can Foreigners Get Licensed?
Yes.
Foreign nationals can become licensed agents if they:
- Hold valid UAE residency
- Are sponsored by a brokerage
- Complete training and pass the RERA exam
There are no nationality restrictions.
License Renewal
Your broker card must be renewed annually.
Renewal requires:
- Updated documents
- Renewal fee payment
- Continuing education (if required)
Failure to renew may result in suspension.
Pros & Cons of Becoming a Real Estate Agent in Dubai
Advantages
- Tax-free income
- High commission potential
- Global client exposure
- Fast-growing property market
Challenges
- Highly competitive industry
- No fixed salary (for most roles)
- Performance-driven environment
- Requires strong networking skills
Final Thoughts
Obtaining a Dubai real estate agent license in 2026 is a structured and transparent process. The entry cost is moderate, and the earning potential can be substantial for disciplined and consistent professionals.
The real challenge isn’t passing the exam — it’s building trust, generating leads, and sustaining performance in a competitive market.
If you are serious about building a career in Dubai real estate, start by understanding the licensing process — then choose the right brokerage and training platform to support your growth.
