Licensing and Regulations: How to Become a Certified Real Estate Agent in Dubai

Dubai's breathtaking architecture and developments can be tempting for many people to enter the city's real estate industry. If you are good at dealing with people and have impressive communication and negotiation skills, joining the real estate sector of Dubai as a realtor might be the best option for you. But the question is, what is the process of getting into this profession? This blog shares insights into becoming a certified real estate agent in Dubai. 

How To Become A Certified Real Estate Agent In Dubai?

Get A Residency Visa (For Expats)

If you are an expat and want to become a real estate agent in Dubai, you should get a residency permit through a real estate agency because, in Dubai, there is no concept of freelance real estate agents. You must become a registered real estate company employee to apply for your brokerage license.

You can apply for job opportunities at real estate companies that are hiring for realtor roles through LinkedIn, company sites, or other online job portals. If you are shortlisted and called for an interview, check about getting a visa. GCC nationals and locals can easily apply for a brokerage licence. However, the expats must have a valid residency visa to apply for a job as a real estate agent in Dubai. You can obtain a work visa in Dubai through your employer, or if your spouse is already working in Dubai, you can also get a sponsored residency visa. 

However, you should remember that even though you get a spousal residency visa, you must have a work permit from a registered real estate company to work as a realtor. You will also need your Emirates ID to work as a real estate agent, which you can obtain after becoming a resident of the UAE.

Obtain The Broker's Licence

Once you receive your UAE residency, you must pass the Real Estate Brokerage Exam to get your brokerage licence, which means you will now have your (BRN) Broker Registration Number. Those looking for properties in Dubai can look you up on DLD’s list of registered agents using your BRN, and your licence number is displayed on your Agent Profile. This licence is compulsory to sell properties in the secondary market. Moreover, agents who work in the leasing or off-plan property market also need this permit. 

Preparing For the RERA Test

Suppose you want to take the RERA test to become a certified real estate agent. In that case, you can take the DREI Certified Training, which teaches individuals about the laws, regulations, and best practices required for working in the real estate industry in Dubai. This course is approved by the Dubai Land Department (DLD) and the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA).

Taking The Exam

After taking the training, you can attempt the exams in which quizzes are given regarding the laws and regulations that govern the Dubai real estate industry. The fee for this exam is AED 3,200 for those with a bachelor’s degree. On the other hand, individuals without a bachelor’s degree must pay AED 6,300, while those with no educational background have to pay AED 15,750. The RERA fee for each of these activities is AED 5,020. After taking the exam, you must get a Police Clearance Certificate to apply for your Broker licence in Dubai. This certificate is available on the official Dubai Police website and costs AED 200. It takes two working days to process this certificate.

Applying for Your Broker's Licence

Once you have your Police Clearance Certificate, your agency will apply for your broker licence on the Trakheesi portal. To apply for the broker licence, you will need the following documents.

• Police Clearance Certificate
• Proof of completion of DREI Certified Training
• RERA Exam Clearance Certificate

This will be it, and the Economic Department will issue your broker licence and card. Registered real estate companies have accounts on the DLD website, allowing them to access the Trakheesi portal and apply on your behalf using your cleared certificates, the newly received Emirates ID, and your residence visa. After submitting all the required documents at the portal, you will receive your Trakheesi login credentials and Brokers Licence within two working days. Now, you have become a Certified Real Estate Agent in Dubai. One important thing to remember is that you must renew your licence one month before the expiry date, so you do not have to pay any penalties to the issuing authorities.

Eligibility Criteria for Getting a Real Estate Agent Licence

To become a licensed real estate agent in Dubai, you must meet the following eligibility criteria:

1. You must be at least 21 years old.
2. You must have a high school diploma or equivalent. While formal real estate education is not required, you will need to complete the RERA training and pass the certification exam.
3. If you’re an expatriate, you must have a valid UAE residency visa to apply for a real estate agent license. UAE nationals do not require a residency visa.
4. Completion of the RERA training course and passing the RERA certification exam are mandatory to obtain the license, regardless of previous experience in real estate.

Why You Should Become a Certified Real Estate Agent In Dubai?

Obtaining a Broker’s Licence in Dubai provides real estate agents with numerous professional and practical advantages, enhancing their ability to operate successfully in a competitive market. Here are the key benefits:

Legal Authorization

Having a BRN means that the agent is legally authorised to practice real estate brokerage in Dubai. This ensures compliance with local laws and regulations, which is crucial for operating within the legal framework of the real estate market.

Professional Credibility

Agents with a BRN are seen as more credible and trustworthy by clients, as it signifies that they have met the necessary qualifications and standards set by RERA. This can enhance an agent’s reputation, resulting in more clients, more successful transactions and repeat business.

Access to Resources

Agents with a BRN benefit from RERA’s training programs and continuous professional development opportunities, along with regular updates on regulatory changes, market trends, and best practices. They can access various tools and platforms, such as the Ejari system and the Dubai Rest app, which streamline their operations. Additionally, being part of the regulatory system grants them access to valuable market data and insights, which aids in informed decision-making and provides better client advice.

Market Access

Registered brokers can gain access to exclusive property listings and professional networks that are not available to unregistered agents. This can provide a competitive edge in the market.

Marketing and Promotion

Being registered allows agents to market themselves and their services more effectively. They can promote their BRN as a mark of professionalism, which can be used in marketing materials and client pitches.

Regulatory Support

In the event of disputes, registered agents can seek support and mediation from RERA, which provides a structured process for resolving conflicts between parties involved in real estate transactions.

Career Advancement

Having a BRN can open up opportunities for career growth and advancement within the real estate sector, including positions in larger brokerages or even establishing one’s brokerage firm.

Conclusion

Becoming a certified real estate agent in Dubai involves several steps, and the process might seem rigorous, but the benefits are substantial. As a licensed agent, you gain legal authorisation, professional credibility, access to valuable resources, exclusive market opportunities, and strong marketing potential. Additionally, support from regulatory authorities like RERA enhances your career prospects and provides a solid foundation for success in Dubai's competitive real estate market. By following these steps, you can embark on a rewarding career as a real estate agent and stay on top of this industry. 

If you want to start your career as a real estate agent in Dubai, join us.

You may also like: 10 Expert Tips to Become a Dubai Real Estate Agent.