How to Become a Real Estate Agent in Dubai

Dubai’s name has become synonymous with prosperity regarding real estate. From renowned architectural firms and designers to world-class developers; they all want to leave a footprint in the Emirate and capitalize on the steady demand for Dubai real estate. These favorable conditions will tempt many to build themselves a career as a real estate agent in Dubai. To succeed in such a vocation, one must have good communication skills, the right sales and negotiation expertise, and the ability to close deals. There are also many compelling benefits that such a career would bring about; however, you need to acquire the right permits to work as a real estate agent in Dubai legally. This blog guides you on the right path.

Eligibility Requirements

Age and Educational Qualifications

Similarly to any other career, becoming a property agent in Dubai requires certain qualifications. In terms of education, a university degree is not a must to apply for a real estate license; nevertheless, you must be at least 21 years of age to qualify.

Skills needed for success in Dubai's real estate sector

A real estate career in Dubai presents great opportunities but to succeed in your job, you must possess a variety of skills that will ensure you can effectively manage your clients and close deals.

• Communication skills: Working with a variety of clients, other agents, and industry professionals will require you to communicate efficiently, build trust, foster relationships, and convey important information.
• Sales skills: The most prominent role you’ll be performing is selling properties. Being persuasive and knowing how to “sell” is crucial. In short, you need to be able to identify your buyers' needs and preferences then meet them, negotiate deals, and ensure they get the best possible outcome.
• Marketing skills: To succeed in selling you must succeed in marketing. A real estate agent must be able to attract potential buyers by creating informative descriptions of properties, providing photos and videos, and knowing how to capitalize on social media, websites, and print materials.
• Time-management skills: Having to work on multiple deals at a time, you must master prioritizing tasks, managing deadlines, and ensuring all deals are on track.

Steps to Become a Real Estate Agent

Are you wondering how to become a realtor in Dubai? Worry not, the process is relatively easy; however, you must follow specific steps after acquiring your residency permit.

Complete RERA Training

To become a real estate agent in Dubai, you must follow the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) certification process. It starts by completing the real estate agent training in Dubai which is a four-day course by the IEREI (Innovation Experts Real Estate Institute). During this course approved by the Dubai Land Department (DLD) and the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA), you will go through the laws, regulations, and best practices. The modules include:

• History and Development
• The Business of a Broker
• Concepts, Definitions, and Market Players
• Sales Processes and Agreements
• Leasing Process and Rental Agreements
• Code of Ethics
• Introduction to Owner’s Associations
• Legal Module
• Essential Skills

Pass the Certification Exam

After completing the course, you must sit for the exam designed for those who wish to become agents in the Dubai real estate industry. You can take the classes online or at the RERA agent registration training center at the Dubai Land Department on Baniyas Road, Deira.

Obtain a Real Estate License

The next step is acquiring your license. After passing the DREI exam, you need to have a Police Clearance Certificate to apply for your license. You can get it on the Dubai Police website for AED 200 and it should be ready within two days.

The Brokers Licence is requested on the Trakheesi portal, after submitting the police clearance certificate, proof of completion of the DREI course, and passing the exam. The Economic Department will issue your license and card, and then grant you an account on the DLD site to access the Trakheesi portal.

Your license must be renewed one month before its expiry to avoid any penalties.

Join a Real Estate Agency or Brokerage Firm

You cannot work as a freelance real estate agent in Dubai so you must find the right workplace for you and your career. There are many real estate firms in Dubai to choose from and many factors to take into consideration when looking for a job. These include the firm’s name and reputation, the commission structure, medical and visa insurance, and administrative and marketing support. You can see the job openings available here at Driven Properties.

Costs and Fees

The fee you must pay for the DREI exam is AED 3,200 (AED 2,400 at a discount subject to availability) if you have a bachelor’s degree. If you don’t, you must pay AED 6,300. In case of no educational qualification, the fee charged is AED 15,750.

As for the classes you need to complete before sitting for the test, RERA charges AED 5.020 for each of the above-mentioned modules.

Legal and Regulatory Framework

Residency and Visa:

In Dubai, you cannot work as a freelance real estate agent. You must be employed by a registered real estate brokerage to apply for a Brokers Permit. Expats who wish to venture into Dubai real estate licensing, need to have a valid residency visa under their real estate agency. In case you have a spousal residency visa, you will need a work permit from the real estate agency to be able to work as a professional real estate agent. UAE citizens and GCC nationals can sign up for the licensing process without this requirement.

Meet the Eligibility Criteria

If you want to become a real estate agent in Dubai you must meet the eligibility criteria which are the following:

• Being at least 21 years old
• Having a high school diploma or equivalent
• Passing a criminal background check

Understanding the Role of RERA and DLD

The Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) and the Dubai Land Department (DLD) are the governmental agencies that regulate the market. They have set forth rules and processes that ensure a transparent and efficient real estate market. You must comply with their laws and regulations.

Abiding by the Real Estate Laws in Dubai

You must follow all the laws and regulations enforced in Dubai, namely real estate laws to avoid legal issues and maintain a good reputation in the industry.

Why Become a Real Estate Agent in Dubai?

Many benefits and perks come with working as a real estate agent in Dubai. Here are some reasons that might make you consider a career path in real estate.

• Uncapped earning potential: As most real estate agents work on a commission, keeping around 50-70% of the commission they generate; you will have the opportunity to earn quite a living off this career.
• Tax-free income: You won’t have to pay any income tax on the money you make whether as a salary or in commissions.
• Booming market: Dubai’s real estate market has recently witnessed a period of unprecedented growth, which brought about many opportunities for those who work in this sector.
• Flexible working hours: Real estate agents don’t usually stick to the 9 to 5 working hours and can freely manage their own time and schedule.
• Networking opportunities: In this line of work, you will get to meet property owners, buyers, and tenants; and build an influential professional network.
• Career growth: If you prove yourself as a real estate agent, opportunities will arise for career growth as you progress into management.

Conclusion

Real estate career opportunities in Dubai might constitute a rewarding career path, and your success will be contingent on your dedication, continuous learning, and strategic approach.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. How do I obtain a RERA certification in Dubai?

To obtain a RERA certification in Dubai, you will first need to complete the RERA certification process and meet the Dubai real estate broker requirements which include the RERA training; then pass the DREI test, request your permit, and find an agency to work with.

2. What are the costs involved in becoming a real estate agent in Dubai?

The costs are the fees for the DREI exam which are AED 3,200 for bachelor degree holders, AED 6,300 for non-bachelor degree holders, and AED 15,750 for those with no educational qualification.

The RERA also charges AED 5,020 for each of the classes you must take and they amount to 9 classes.

3. Can I work as an independent real estate agent in Dubai?

One cannot be a freelance real estate agent in Dubai. You must be employed by a registered real estate agency to apply for a permit.

4. Are there any age restrictions to becoming a real estate agent in Dubai?

To become a real estate agent in Dubai you must be over 21 years of age.

5. How long does it take to become a licensed real estate agent in Dubai?

You need to complete the Real estate agent training in Dubai which consists of the “Certified Training for Real Estate Brokers” course approved by the Dubai Real Estate Institute (DREI) which spans over 4 days; and then pass the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) exam.

6. Do I need to speak Arabic to work as a real estate agent in Dubai?

Speaking Arabic is not mandatory if you want to work as a real estate agent in Dubai, but it is certainly a point of strength. English, however, is essential, since Dubai is a multicultural hub. It’s also an advantage to speak some of the languages spoken by significant immigrant communities such as Hindi, Urdu, and Russian.

7. Can international professionals become real estate agents in Dubai?

Yes, foreign nationals can become real estate agents in Dubai contingent on having a residency visa to be able to apply for a real estate license.