Why You Must Be RERA-Licensed to Work in Dubai Real Estate
Dubai's Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) — a division of the Dubai Land Department (DLD) — requires every individual engaged in real estate brokerage to hold a valid RERA Broker Card. Working without one is illegal and can result in fines, deportation proceedings, and permanent banning from the sector.
The RERA Broker Card is also required to:
- List properties on Property Finder, Bayut, and Dubizzle
- Obtain Trakheesi permits for listings
- Sign Form A (seller mandate) and Form B (buyer representation) on behalf of the agency
- Transact with the DLD for NOC requests, Title Deed transfers, and more
Step-by-Step: How to Get Your RERA Broker Card
Secure a UAE Residence Visa via a Licensed Brokerage
You cannot hold a RERA Broker Card independently — you must be employed by a RERA-licensed brokerage that will sponsor your UAE residence visa. If you are already a UAE resident under a different visa category, check whether you can transfer sponsorship or require an NOC from your current employer.
Complete the CTRB Course (Certified Training for Real Estate Brokers)
The CTRB is a mandatory 3-day training programme run by the Dubai Real Estate Institute (DREI). It covers:
- Dubai real estate law and RERA regulations
- Property transaction processes and DLD procedures
- Anti-money laundering (AML) obligations
- Ethics and professional standards
- Standard RERA forms (Form A, B, F)
Courses are available in English and Arabic, in person at DREI offices or online. The fee is approximately AED 3,000–4,000.
Pass the RERA Exam
After completing the CTRB course, you sit the RERA broker exam administered by DREI. The exam is multiple-choice and covers the course material. A passing score is required before your application can proceed. If you fail, you can retake the exam for a fee.
Prepare Your Documents
You'll need the following for your DLD application:
- Valid passport copy
- UAE residence visa and Emirates ID
- CTRB course completion certificate and exam pass letter
- Good conduct certificate (police clearance) from your home country and the UAE
- Passport-size photo on white background
- Employment contract or NOC from your sponsoring brokerage
Submit Your Application to the DLD
Applications are submitted through the Dubai REST app or in person at the Dubai Land Department offices. The registration fee is approximately AED 5,020. Processing typically takes 5–10 business days. You will receive your digital RERA Broker Card via the Dubai REST app and a physical card by post.
Renew Annually
RERA Broker Cards must be renewed every year. Renewal requires a continuing education credit (a shorter refresher course) and payment of the renewal fee (approximately AED 5,020). Late renewals incur penalties. PropCRM automatically tracks renewal dates and sends reminders to both the agent and the agency manager.
What Happens If Your RERA Card Lapses?
If your RERA Broker Card expires and you continue to practice, you are operating illegally. The DLD can issue fines and suspend the brokerage's licence. Portals like Property Finder and Bayut verify Broker Card status and will reject listings from agents with expired cards. Your Trakheesi permits become invalid, and any contracts you sign during the lapse period may be legally unenforceable.
This is why tracking renewal dates in a CRM — rather than relying on memory or calendar reminders — is critical for any agency managing multiple agents.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a RERA Broker Card in Dubai?
The CTRB course takes 3 days. After passing the RERA exam, DLD registration typically takes 5–10 business days if all documents are in order. Most applicants receive their Broker Card within 2–3 weeks of starting the process.
How much does the RERA Broker Card cost in Dubai?
The CTRB course fee is approximately AED 3,000–4,000. The DLD registration fee is AED 5,020 for a new broker licence. Annual renewal is AED 5,020. Fees may change — always check the DLD website for the latest figures.
Can expats become RERA-licensed real estate agents in Dubai?
Yes. Expatriates can become RERA-licensed real estate agents in Dubai. You need a valid UAE residence visa (typically sponsored by the brokerage), a completed CTRB course, and a clean background check. You cannot hold a RERA Broker Card independently — you must be employed by a licensed brokerage.
Track every agent's RERA renewal date automatically
PropCRM lets agency managers log RERA card expiry dates and sends automated reminders before renewals fall due — so no agent in your team ever practises on an expired licence.