How to Become a Real Estate Agent in Dubai? Find out

The past year has marked a remarkable resurgence in the UAE’s real estate sector. With Dubai’s stunning skyscrapers, innovative infrastructure, and bustling nightlife, many aspire to join its real estate realm. 

Are you a communicator with a knack for sealing deals? Embarking on a real estate agent career might be your calling! Dive in to discover how to become a real estate agent in Dubai.

Why Consider a Career as a Real Estate Agent in Dubai?

There are compelling reasons to pursue a career as a real estate agent/broker/realtor in the UAE. Firstly, you’ll be dealing with one of the most valuable assets in the market: property.

With adept sales and negotiation skills, coupled with a drive to build a sterling reputation, you stand to earn substantial commissions on top of your base salary.

The Path to Becoming a Dubai Real Estate Agent

Becoming a real estate broker in Dubai requires obtaining a professional license from RERA.

Secondly, being a real estate agent offers an exhilarating career opportunity. You get to assist individuals in finding their ideal homes or offices. Moreover, it’s an engaging profession that introduces you to a diverse, multicultural client base.

However, becoming a top-tier and successful real estate broker in Dubai demands significant effort. The industry is fiercely competitive, so prepare to toil, engage consistently with clients, and become adept at identifying their requirements.

Notably, some brokerage firms hire realtors as independent contractors, working on a commission-only basis. Others offer a structure comprising a basic salary in addition to commissions. Nonetheless, the bulk of an agent’s earnings typically stem from commissions.

Interested in How to Become a Real Estate Agent in Dubai?

While the process is multifaceted and successful agents take years to cultivate a robust portfolio of potential buyers and tenants, the initial steps toward becoming a real estate agent in Dubai begin with applying for your broker’s license.

GUIDE TO BECOMING A REAL ESTATE AGENT IN DUBAI

• STEP 1 – SECURE A RESIDENCY VISA 

Obtaining a residency permit is the initial step to embark on your journey as a real estate agent in Dubai. Freelancing isn’t an option here—a registered real estate brokerage must employ you to pursue a Brokers Permit.

Start by seeking job openings at real estate agencies in Dubai hiring for agent roles. Platforms like LinkedIn, Bayt, or company websites are great places to explore. If you get shortlisted and called for an interview, inquire about visa arrangements.

For UAE citizens and GCC nationals, the licensing process is more straightforward. However, expats need a valid residency visa to apply for a realtor position in Dubai. This can be acquired through a work visa provided by your employer or a residency visa sponsored by your spouse working in Dubai.

Note that under a spousal residency visa, you’ll need a work permit from the real estate agency. Additionally, securing your Emirates ID, a requisite for UAE residents, is essential. If you’re new to the country, a comprehensive guide on the uses and advantages of the Emirates ID is available.

• STEP 2 – OBTAIN THE BROKER LICENSE

Once your UAE residency is in place, the next stage involves passing the Real Estate Brokerage Exam to obtain the Brokers Licence necessary for selling properties in the secondary market. Agents dealing with off-plan properties or leases do not require this permit.

To sit for the exam, attend a four-day course the Dubai Real Estate Institute (DREI) offers. This course, approved by the Dubai Land Department (DLD) and the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA), covers industry laws, regulations, and best practices and is available online. The course fee is AED 3,000.

Following the course, take the exam assessing your knowledge of Dubai’s real estate laws and regulations. The exam fee is AED 3,200 for bachelor’s degree holders and AED 6,300 for non-degree holders.

Once you pass the exam, obtain a Police Clearance Certificate from the Dubai Police website, costing AED 200, and processed within two days.

Subsequently, your agency’s admin team will apply for your Brokers License on the Trakheesi portal. They’ll submit the police clearance certificate and proof of completing the DREI course and passing the exam. The Economic Department will issue your broker license and card. 

Registered real estate brokerages manage this process through their DLD account using your newly received Emirates ID with a residence visa.

Upon submission of all required documents, expect to receive your credentials (Trakheesi login) and Brokers License within one to two days. Remember, renew your license a month before expiry to avoid penalties by the issuing authority.

Renewing Your Real Estate Agent License In Dubai

To renew your broker’s license, head to the Trakheesi portal. You’ll need to ace the RERA test with an 85% score and reapply for a Police Clearance certificate.

Remember, missing the renewal deadline could lead to license cancellation or the need to retake the training course.

Here’s a checklist of documents needed for renewal:

• Copy of valid passport with file/residence permit
• Personal photo
• Police clearance certificate
• Proof of passing the RERA test

The renewal fee amounts to AED 510.

If you’re changing agencies, cancel your current broker’s license and apply for a new one once you have your new residency visa. Ensure you submit proof of cancellation for the previous approval to obtain the new one.

Going into a career in real estate is just the beginning. Continuous learning and personal growth are keys to long-term success. Explore workshops at Bayut Academy to gain essential skills and excel as a top-notch real estate agent. Additionally, discover various other courses tailored for real estate agents in Dubai.

Advantages Of Becoming A Real Estate Agent In Dubai

Now that we’ve covered ‘How to become a real estate agent in Dubai, let’s explore the perks Dubai’s market offers to agents.

• Lucrative Financial Gains

Property dealings in Dubai, whether for foreigners or UAE residents, present high-value prospects. Dealing in high-value commodities leads to substantial commissions, offering significant financial rewards for those with the proper skill set.

• Engage with Diverse Clients

Dubai’s diverse population is another plus. As a real estate broker here, you’ll build numerous valuable professional connections, engaging with diverse and multicultural clients. Guiding clients to find dream homes can be immensely fulfilling.

• Exceptional Architecture

Dubai’s properties boast remarkable architecture, engineering, and artistry, providing a breathtaking experience. Imagine being a salesperson consistently exposed to such awe-inspiring structures.

However, it’s important to note that many real estate firms in Dubai operate primarily on a commission basis. While some offer a minimal basic income, most rely on commissions. A substantial portfolio demands specific skill sets to excel in this competitive field.

Conclusion

The career path of a real estate agent  is challenging, but it offers substantial rewards, especially with numerous commercial and residential properties in the market—best of luck with your professional endeavors.