Foreign Ownership Fuels Surge in UAE Real Estate Brokerage Firms
The UAE real estate sector continues to witness a strong influx of foreign-owned brokerage firms as investment activity and property transactions grow across the country. With Dubai breaking monthly sales records and emirates like Ras Al Khaimah drawing first-time investors, international players are strengthening their presence in the market.
The recent legislative shift allowing 100% foreign ownership of real estate brokerages, consultancies, and development firms has created a major draw for global investors. Jim Swallow, Commercial Director at Sovereign PPG, told Gulf News, “Most of the demand for new real estate brokerage setups is for fully foreign-owned firms.”
This change followed amendments to the UAE Commercial Companies Law in mid-2021, eliminating the previous requirement for a 51% local sponsor in many mainland sectors — including property services. Since then, licensing applications for real estate businesses have grown steadily.
While some companies continue to operate with local partners due to joint ventures or specific location requirements, many have transitioned to full foreign ownership. Swallow added, “Where the local partner was passive, firms have opted for share transfer. Active investors have often been bought out.”
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Despite forecasts of slowed price growth in specific Dubai locations, enthusiasm for setting up brokerages remains high. Investors are now eyeing Ras Al Khaimah and Abu Dhabi for expansion, with Ras Al Khaimah especially drawing interest from European investors entering the UAE market for the first time.
Projects such as Serene Gardens and Ocean Cove reflect the rising demand for off-plan real estate in emerging UAE destinations, providing both capital appreciation and rental yield potential.
Dubai remains the hub, but other emirates are gaining ground. The entry of new foreign-backed consultancies adds professionalism and diversity to the marketplace, helping buyers and investors gain access to curated listings and strategic insights.
Whether it’s a waterfront property in Golf Verge or a modern development like Jade Tower, the opportunities are expanding. Combined with investor-friendly regulations and growing confidence in long-term planning, the UAE continues to solidify its global real estate leadership.
With the landscape evolving fast, international investors are no longer just participants — they’re now shaping the future of real estate in the UAE.
