How to Convert a UK Real Estate Licence in the UAE: Your Ultimate Guide

The UAE is a booming real estate market, with Dubai leading the way as a global property hub. If you’re a real estate professional from the UK aiming to transition into the UAE market, you’re stepping into a lucrative and exciting industry. However, the UAE has its own set of rules and regulations, and your UK real estate license isn’t directly transferable. To legally practice in the UAE, you need to comply with specific licensing procedures laid out by the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) under the Dubai Land Department (DLD). This blog provides a step-by-step guide to help you convert your UK real estate license to a UAE real estate license.

Step 1: Obtain a UAE Residency Visa

A residency visa is a prerequisite to working in any profession in the UAE, including real estate. Without this, you cannot proceed with the licensing process.

How to Apply:

• Secure sponsorship through a licensed real estate brokerage.
• If you’re already in the UAE on a family visa, that can also suffice.

Cost: AED 3,000–6,000, depending on the sponsor type.

Processing Time: Typically takes 5–10 working days.

Additional Requirement: An Emirates ID is mandatory. It serves as your identification and is required for all formal procedures in the UAE.

Contact for Assistance:

• UAE Government Service Website: www.gdrfad.gov.ae
• Phone: +971 4 313 9999

Step 2: Enroll in a Certified Real Estate Training Program

Once you have your residency visa, the next step is to enroll in a real estate training course offered by the Dubai Real Estate Institute (DREI). This program is designed to equip aspiring agents with knowledge of UAE-specific property laws, ethics, and market practices.

Details of the Course:

• Duration: 4 days.
• Topics Covered: Real estate laws, market regulations, code of ethics, and property transactions.
• Cost: AED 3,000.
• Location: Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai.

How to Enroll:

• Visit the official DREI website: www.drei.ae.
• Contact their office for assistance: +971 4 203 0500.

Pro Tip: Completing this course also familiarizes you with the cultural and professional nuances of the UAE real estate market, which can be significantly different from the UK.

Step 3: Pass the RERA Certification Exam

After completing the training, you’ll need to pass the RERA Certification Exam. This is a key step to qualify for a real estate license in Dubai.

Details of the Exam:

• Fee: AED 3,200 for candidates with a bachelor’s degree; AED 6,300 for those without a degree.
• Passing Score: A minimum of 75%.
• Topics Covered: Real estate laws, ethics, market regulations, and practical applications.

How to Prepare:

• Review the training material provided during the course.
• Pay close attention to laws and regulations unique to the UAE market.

Contact for Exam Registration:

• Dubai Real Estate Institute: +971 4 203 0500.

Location: DREI Testing Center, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai.

Step 4: Obtain a Police Clearance Certificate

To ensure you have a clean criminal record, the UAE requires all applicants to submit a Police Clearance Certificate.

How to Apply:

• Visit the Dubai Police website or use their smart app.
• Alternatively, you can apply in person at a Dubai Police station.

Cost: AED 220–320.

Processing Time: 1–2 business days.

Documents Required:

• Emirates ID.
• Passport copy.

Contact Information:

• Website: www.dubaipolice.gov.ae
• Phone: +971 4 609 9999.

Step 5: Apply for Your Real Estate Licence

With your training certificate, exam results, and police clearance in hand, you’re now ready to apply for a UAE real estate license. This application is submitted by your employing brokerage through the Trakheesi System, managed by the Dubai Land Department (DLD).

Documents Required:

• Residency visa and Emirates ID copies.
• Training completion certificate from DREI.
• RERA exam results.
• Police Clearance Certificate.
• Passport-sized photographs.

Cost: AED 5,000–6,000.

Processing Time: 1–2 working days.

Contact:

• Dubai Land Department: +971 4 222 2255.
• Website: www.dubailand.gov.ae.

Step 6: Join a Licensed Real Estate Brokerage

In the UAE, real estate agents must operate under a licensed brokerage. This means you cannot work independently.

How to Choose a Brokerage:

• Look for RERA-certified companies.
• Verify their reputation and market standing.
• Ensure they provide resources like training and lead generation.

Costs to Expect: Some brokerages may charge onboarding fees or take a percentage of your commissions.

Step 7: Renew Your Licence Annually

The real estate license in Dubai is valid for one year and requires annual renewal.

Renewal Process:

• Pass the RERA exam again with an 85% score or above.
• Submit updated documents and pay renewal fees.

Cost: AED 5,000–6,000 annually.

Processing Time: 2–5 business days.

Related 

• How to Get a 10-Year Golden Visa by Buying Off-Plan Property in Dubai
• How to Renew Your Real Estate Agent License in Dubai
• Benefits of Partnering with a UAE Real Estate Agent
• How to Choose Right Agent for your Real Estate Needs?