How to Become a Real Estate Agent in Dubai

Why become a real estate agent in Dubai

Working as a real estate agent in Dubai can be a hugely rewarding experience, with a number of potential reasons to consider this career path. These include: 

• Uncapped earning potential: Most real estate agents work on a commission basis, where they keep around 50-70% of the commission that they generate. This makes the potential earnings from being a real estate agent unlimited, with the top real estate agents in Dubai earning annual incomes in excess of $100,000. 

• Tax-free income: Not only are the potential earnings from Dubai real estate very high, but they are tax-free. 

• Thriving market: Dubai’s property market has been going through a period of unprecedented growth, creating many opportunities. 

• Flexible working: As a real estate agent you aren’t usually stuck to the usual working hours, with the freedom to manage your own time and schedule. 

• Build your own brand: As an agent, you are effectively running your own business, with the support of an agency, giving you the opportunity to build a personal brand and be responsible for your own success. 

• Networking opportunities: Property owners, buyers and tenants are often successful people, particularly in Dubai’s luxury real estate market, giving you the chance to build a fantastic professional network. 

• Career growth: As a successful real estate agent, you will gain opportunities for career growth and progression into management roles. 

Step 1: Finding employment with brokerage firms

Before you can begin renting or selling properties in Dubai, you need to find employment with a reputable brokerage firm. This step is crucial as a good real estate agency will provide you with the support, training, and resources needed to succeed in the industry.

Types of brokerage firms

In Dubai, real estate agencies can be generally split into these three categories: 

• Local brokerage firms: These agencies operate only in Dubai. They should have a strong presence locally and possess in-depth knowledge of the region’s property market. 

• International brokerage firms: These firms operate globally and offer extensive networks and resources, making them ideal for agents looking to work with international clients. For example, Engel & Völkers has 16,500 agents in over 35 countries on 5 continents and at more than 1,000 locations

• Boutique brokerage firms: These smaller firms focus on niche markets or specific types of properties, providing a personalized service to their clients.

How to choose the right firm

There are hundreds of real estate companies in Dubai. Choosing the right company for you can be crucial not only to your overall success, but also to your satisfaction with the job. 

When researching and selecting a real estate company, consider the following factors:

1. Reputation: Look for an agency with an established reputation in the market. Research online reviews and ask for recommendations from other agents.

2. Training program: Choose a firm that offers comprehensive training to help you develop your skills and knowledge.

3. Support system: Ensure the firm provides a strong support system, including admin assistance, marketing resources, and ongoing development tools. 

4. Commission structure: Understand the commission structure, both in terms of the percentage split, and the frequency and speed of payments. 

5. Company culture: Look for an agency which actively promotes and encourages a great working environment. 

6. Management team: Choose a firm which has a well established and experienced management team to provide strategy, direction and guidance. 

These topics can make great questions to ask in an interview with a real estate agency. 

Building a successful career in real estate

Once you join a brokerage firm, focus on building a successful career by:

• Networking: Actively build relationships with clients and colleagues, attend industry events, and connect with other agents to expand your network.

• Continuous learning: Stay updated with the latest market trends, regulations, and best practices through continuous learning and professional development.

• Providing excellent service: Prioritize client satisfaction by offering personalized and professional services.

Step 2: Complete on-boarding and initial training

To excel as a real estate agent in Dubai, your chosen company should guide you through an on-boarding process and initial training to help equip you with the necessary knowledge and skills.

Overview of Dubai real estate training

All real estate companies should offer their new agents some form of initial training about how to become a real estate agent in Dubai. The exact contents and structure of this training will vary, but it should cover essential topics such as market analysis, property valuation, and legal aspects of real estate transactions.

At Engel & Völkers, we have an Academy Training Program which all new real estate agents complete. This is a rigorous, one-week intensive training course delivered by our Head Of Training, designed to equip you with all of the knowledge and skills that you will need to confidently begin your career as a Dubai real estate agent. 

Course content and modules

Typical training programs include modules on:

• Real estate principles: understanding the basics of real estate transactions.

• Legal aspects: learning about Dubai's real estate laws and regulations.

• Marketing and sales techniques: developing effective marketing and sales strategies.

• Client relationship management: building and maintaining strong client relationships.

Duration of the training

The duration of the training provided varies between real estate companies, with most courses lasting between a few days and a couple of weeks. However, this should just be the beginning, with the real estate company then providing ongoing learning and development opportunities to all agents.

Step 3: Obtain a residency visa

To work legally in Dubai, you must obtain a residency visa. This process involves several steps and requires meeting specific requirements.

Requirements for foreigners

Foreigners must meet certain criteria to qualify for a residency visa. This includes:

• Employment offer: You must have a job offer from a Dubai-based company to qualify for an employment visa.

• Health check: Undergo a medical examination to ensure you are in good health.

• Security clearance: Pass a security clearance check.

Types of residency visas

There are different types of residency visas available, such as:

• Employment Visa: Issued to individuals employed by a Dubai-based company.

• Investor Visa: Granted to individuals who invest in Dubai's real estate market.

• Family Visa: Available for family members of residents.

How to apply for a residency visa

If you are planning to get an employment visa, then the HR Department at your real estate agency should manage the residency visa application on your behalf and provide guidance throughout the process.

Whilst your company should manage the visa application process, there are a number of steps that you should be aware of, which include: 

• Application submission: Your employer should submit your signed application form alongside the required documents, like your passport copy and attested education certificates (if relevant). 

• Medical examination: Complete the required medical examination.

• Visa stamping: Once approved, get your visa stamped in your passport.

Step 4: Attend and pass the RERA exam

Becoming qualified with the Real Estate Regulatory Agency is a crucial step in how to become a real estate agent in Dubai. 

This involves taking an exam set by RERA, which is a mandatory requirement for all real estate agents in Dubai. This exam tests your knowledge of the local real estate laws and regulations and once you have passed, you will become a licensed real estate agent. 

Exam preparation tips

To prepare for the RERA exam, consider the following tips:

• Study the course material: Review the training course material thoroughly.

• Take practice tests: Practice with sample questions and mock exams.

• Work collaboratively: Work closely with colleagues to study and share knowledge.

Exam fee and requirements

The RERA registration exam cost is usually covered by your employer. This fee varies depending on your education level. The fee is AED 3,200 for those with a bachelor’s degree in any field, or AED 6,300 if you don’t hold a bachelor’s degree. If you have no educational qualifications, the RERA registration exam costs AED 15,750. 

When registering for the exam, you will need to submit certain documents, such as identification and training certificates. 

What to expect in the exam

The RERA exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering various topics, including:

1. Dubai real estate laws: Understanding the legal framework governing real estate transactions.

2. Market knowledge: Demonstrating knowledge of the Dubai property market.

3. Ethics and professionalism: Adhering to the ethical standards and professional conduct expected by RERA. 

Getting your RERA license

Once you pass the exam, you will receive your RERA license. This will give you a Broker’s Number and allow you to practice as a real estate agent in Dubai.

Step 5: Understanding legal and regulatory aspects

To become one of the top real estate agents in Dubai, it is vital to understand the legal and regulatory aspects of the market. This should form a significant part of your initial training once you join a real estate company. 

Role of RERA and DLD

The Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) and the Dubai Land Department (DLD) are government agencies which play crucial roles in regulating the market. They have a well defined set of rules and processes which ensure a transparent and efficient real estate market and compliance with laws and regulations.

Compliance with real estate laws in Dubai

Following all real estate laws and regulations is essential to avoiding legal issues and maintaining a good reputation in the industry. Your employer should help you to stay informed about changes in regulations and ensure you follow best practices.

Step 6: Building a client portfolio

One of the key steps on how to become a real estate agent in Dubai is understanding the importance of networking and building a strong client portfolio. 

You should work on and implement effective strategies to attract and retain clients. This can ensure you build a position reputation, benefit from word of mouth marketing and get repeat business. 

Networking strategies

Develop networking strategies such as:

• Industry events: Participate in real estate conferences, developer launches, and networking events. You should also consider places and events which aren’t directly related to property, but will allow you to meet people who may be interested in real estate.

• Social media: Use social media platforms, like Instagram and Linkedin, to connect with potential clients and industry professionals.

• Company events: Attend company events and actively engage with your colleagues to build relationships

Marketing techniques

Utilize marketing techniques to promote yourself, including:

• Social media: Create regular, tailored content on social media platforms to build your profile

• Sales boards: Promote your presence in the community using sales or leasing boards outside of your listings.

• Reviews: Ask happy clients to write you an online review which you can then share on social media etc

• Referrals: Encourage satisfied clients to refer your services to others.

• Flyers/Brochures: Create collateral which you can share with potential clients to promote listings and the services that you offer.

Step 7: Understanding market trends

Those who are interested in buying, selling or renting real estate in Dubai will often want to know about the latest market trends and conditions. This therefore forms a valuable part of the service that you can provide to your clients to enhance their experience and encourage them to want to work with you in future. 

You should actively stay informed about market trends such as changes in property prices, demand and supply, and economic factors affecting the market. 

Your employer should give you access to a real estate data platform such as Property Monitor and you should also make use of market reports like the Engel & Völkers H1 2024 Residential Market Report. 

Step 8: Building a strong personal brand

In an industry of thousands of real estate agents, establishing a strong personal brand can set you apart and help you build trust with clients.

Establishing your brand

As a real estate agent, you should have a clear focus and area of expertise, such as specializing in a single community. You should also have consistent branding and means in which you communicate with potential clients and establish your profile within the industry. 

Leveraging social media

Social media can be a valuable tool for building a strong personal brand, allowing you to demonstrate your expertise, promote properties and connect with potential clients and others in the industry. 

To effectively utilize social media, you should create regular content to showcase your expertise, share market updates, and engage with your audience. You should create tailored content for different platforms. For example, Linkedin suits longer-form thought leadership content, whereas content appropriate for TikTok tends to be much more casual, short-form video content. 

Conclusion

Becoming a real estate agent in Dubai can be a hugely rewarding career path, but it requires dedication, constant learning, and a strategic approach. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can position yourself among the top real estate agents in Dubai. 

If you're ready to take the next step in your career, consider joining Engel & Voelkers Dubai, where we offer unparalleled support, training, and opportunities for growth. Apply with us today and become part of our growing team!