Dubai has become a global hub for real estate investments, attracting investors from all over the world thanks to its rapid development and cutting-edge infrastructure. If you are considering establishing a company in Dubai , it is a strategic move that gives you the opportunity to benefit from a dynamic and diverse real estate market that includes luxury and innovative projects.
Establishing a real estate company in Dubai requires a deep understanding of the local market and the legal and regulatory procedures followed. The process can be a bit complicated and requires the submission of many documents and legal steps, but by knowing the right steps and good planning, success and growth can be achieved significantly.
This article will discuss various aspects of setting up a real estate company in Dubai, including the basic steps required, potential challenges, and investment opportunities available in this thriving sector. We will also review the importance of choosing local partners and financial advisors, and provide practical tips for success in Dubai’s evolving real estate market.
If you are thinking of exploring the world of real estate in Dubai by starting a company, this article will provide you with the necessary guidance and information to launch with confidence and success.

Basic steps to establish a real estate company in Dubai
Establishing a company in Dubai requires following several basic steps to ensure legal compliance and successful start-up of business. Here are the basic steps for establishing a real estate company in Dubai:
- Develop a business plan: Before initiating any legal procedures, investors must develop a detailed business plan that includes the company’s vision, business goals, and the services that the company will provide in the Dubai real estate market.
- Choosing a company type: Investors can choose between several types of companies such as Limited Liability Company (LLC), Sole Proprietorship, or Partnership, based on their needs and preferences.
- Choosing and registering a name: You must choose a suitable name for the company and ensure its availability and acceptance by the relevant authorities in Dubai. This is usually done through the Department of Economic Development or the Dubai Business Authority.
- Determine the company’s organizational structure: Investors must determine the company’s organizational structure and determine the roles and responsibilities of each individual within the company, including managers and shareholders.
- Registration and licenses: After determining the company type, name, and organizational structure, investors must submit a registration application to the competent authorities in Dubai, and submit the required documents such as company contracts, passports, financial details, and lease agreement (if applicable).
- Obtaining a business license: Once the company is registered, you must obtain a business license that allows the company to legally conduct its business in Dubai. Types of business licenses vary based on the company’s activity and location.
- Legal and Tax Compliance: Investors must adhere to local legal and tax regulations and laws in Dubai, and submit financial and tax reports regularly.
- Starting a Business: Once all legal and regulatory procedures are completed, the company can start offering its real estate services and building relationships with clients and partners in the Dubai real estate market.
Expected costs of establishing a real estate company in Dubai
The costs of establishing a real estate company in Dubai may vary based on several factors, including the type of company, the planned volume of work, and the services required. Here is an overview of the expected costs of setting up a real estate company in Dubai:
- Registration and license fees: Registration and license fees depend on the type of company and the planned real estate activity.
- Legal Consultation Fees: You may need the services of a legal consultant to assist in preparing legal documents and negotiating contracts. This incurs a consulting fee that varies based on the complexities of the process and services required.
- Rent and office costs: If the company needs an office, it will be assigned to rent an office commensurate with the size of the business and the requirements of real estate activity in Dubai, and the rental cost depends on the location and area of the office.
- Consultation and incorporation assistance fees: You may need the services of consultants specializing in real estate consulting or financial services to assist in preparing the financial plans and reports required for local authorities, which entails additional fees.
- Trademark registration fees: If you wish to register a company trademark, there will be additional fees for registering the trademark in Dubai and the UAE.
- Additional Expenses: These additional expenses may include printing, photography, advertising, and other expenses necessary to start business operations.
Documents required to establish a company in Dubai
To establish a company in Dubai , you must submit a set of basic documents to the Dubai Economic Development Department (DED) or to the designated relevant authority, depending on the type of company you intend to establish. These documents vary slightly based on the type and requirements of each type of company, but usually include the following documents:
- Registration application form: contains company information such as trade name, company type, proposed business activity, shareholders, directors, and legal address.
- Copy of passport for shareholders and directors: A copy of passports must be provided to all shareholders and directors who will be part of the company.
- Bank certificate: A bank certificate must be submitted proving the shareholders’ ability to finance the company and secure the required capital, if required.
- Partners agreement (if the company is a joint venture): If the company is a joint venture, a partner agreement is required that specifies their rights and duties and the distribution of profits and losses.
- Registration fees: The applicable registration fees must be paid to the Dubai Economic Development Department or other competent authority.
- Lease or landlord’s consent to use the location (if the business will operate from a specific location): If the business will be operating from a specific location, a lease or the owner’s consent to use the location for business purposes must be provided.
Licenses required to establish a company in Dubai
To establish a company in Dubai , several licenses and approvals must be obtained from the relevant government authorities. Here is a list of basic licenses that may be required:
- Company Establishment License: Every company in Dubai must obtain a license to establish from the Dubai Business Regulatory Authority (DED) or the relevant government authorities. This license includes specifying the type of company, such as a limited liability company (LLC), sole proprietorship, or others.
- Business (commercial) license: After establishing a company, a commercial business license must be obtained from the Department of Economic Development or a designated free zone in Dubai, which allows the company to conduct its commercial activity legally.
- Building license (if the company operates in the real estate field): If the company operates in the real estate field and intends to build or manage a property, it may need a building license from Dubai Municipality or the relevant authorities to ensure that the projects comply with building regulations and standards.
- Environmental and Health Licenses: In some cases, companies operating in certain fields may require health and safety licenses or to ensure compliance with local environmental regulations.
- Land use license (if the company owns real estate): If the company owns commercial or residential real estate in Dubai, it may need a land use license from Dubai Municipality to ensure that the use of the property complies with local regulations.
- Other licenses depending on the activity: The company may need additional licenses depending on its main activity, such as a tourism and events license, or an aviation license if it operates in the aviation and air transport sector.
At the conclusion of this article about establishing a company in Dubai , we realize the importance of this step in the Emirate of Dubai, which is one of the most prominent global centers for real estate and investment. Establishing a real estate company in Dubai is not just a legal procedure, but rather a strategic step that requires careful planning and comprehensive knowledge of the market and local regulations.
Dubai provides businessmen and investors with broad opportunities for growth and expansion in the real estate sector, thanks to its advanced infrastructure, stable economic environment, and government policies that encourage real estate investments. The real estate activities that companies can establish in Dubai are diverse, including real estate development, real estate marketing, property management, real estate consulting, and real estate brokerage.
To establish a successful real estate company in Dubai, investors must carefully study the market, define a clear strategy, adhere to local legislation and regulations, in addition to providing the necessary financing and qualified human resources.
Thanks to Dubai’s ambitious and future vision, establishing a real estate company can be a gateway to great opportunities in the global real estate market, contributing to economic development and enhancing Dubai’s position as a distinguished investment destination on a global level.
The most important frequently asked questions about establishing a real estate company in Dubai
What licenses are required to establish a real estate company in Dubai?
Required licenses include an establishment license from the Department of Economic Development (DED), business license, property management license (if the company provides property management services), and any additional licenses related to the real estate services provided.
What are the free zones in which a real estate company can be established?
Among the most prominent free zones in Dubai where real estate companies can be established are: Dubai International Financial Center (DIFC), Dubai Media City, Dubai Silicon Oasis, and others. These zones offer incentives such as full company ownership and tax breaks.
What are the legal and tax requirements for real estate companies in Dubai?
Businesses must comply with local laws, file financial reports regularly, and pay fees and taxes due. In free zones, there may be different tax exemptions depending on the region and activity.
What are the benefits of establishing a real estate company in Dubai?
Benefits include a favorable business environment, advanced infrastructure, access to a thriving real estate market, investment incentives, and the potential to leverage Dubai’s position as an international business hub.