
While free zones such as DMCC offer some relevant activities, DED Mainland is by far the most conducive one for brokers who specialize in buying and selling properties within the UAE.
Some economic and commercial activities can be done in free zones like DMCC. Still, DED Mainland is more conducive to brokers looking to buy and sell property and extend their business within certain areas of the UAE.
Mainland jurisdiction by the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED) allows businesses to operate even without the constraints of matching a free zone or offshore companies. In its specific sense, this accentuates a special case for real estate brokers.
DED Mainland offers the following benefits for real estate brokers:
Unlimited Access to the Local Market: Mainland companies can do business anywhere in the UAE, directly engaging buyers, sellers, and developers, which is not possible for free zone companies to do.
Make Commission from Developers: Brokers should possess a valid ORN certificate and RERA broker card; both are only accessible through DED mainland registration.
Free Zones Land-Brokering Risks
Most free zones, such as DMCC, allow a limited scope of real estate activities. However, this does not provide an efficient or effective way of undertaking brokering within the UAE market.
Activity restrictions: Most free zones and offshore companies prohibit direct brokering of properties within the UAE.
Developer commissions: Free zone entities are rarely incapable of obtaining an ORN certificate or broker card and, thus, are not entitled to earn commissions from developers.
Exception: DMCC allows activities for real estate professionals but comes “at a significantly higher cost than the mainland”.
DED Mainland vs. DMCC
Feature | DED Mainland | DMCC (Free Zone) |
Cost | More cost-effective | Higher setup and renewal costs |
Eligibility for ORN | Yes | Restricted to specific activities |
Market Access | Operates across UAE | Limited to certain properties |
Flexibility | Full freedom to broker | Restricted operations |
Mandatory Requirements for DED Mainland Brokers
To work legally as a real estate broker in Dubai, you have to fulfil the following requirements:
ORN Certificate
This ‘Office Registration Number’ is mandatory; you must register with all the respective developers to receive your commissions.
RERA Broker Card
The Real Estate Regulatory Agency initially gave the broker the essential card for maintaining a legal transaction.
RERA Registration
This complies with the UAE real estate laws and gives clients and developers a sense of confidence.
Advantages of Choosing DED Mainland for Real Estate Brokerage
Cheap Licensing
There are no hidden costs. Setting up a brokerage under DED offers more economic advantages than free zones such as DMCC.
No Operation Restrictions
A Mainland company can freely buy, sell, and lease properties in any part of the UAE.
Developer Commission Accessibility
Inland brokers with ORN and broker cards can only earn developer commissions.
Scalability
Certain advantages exist when setting up operations on the mainland, as new opportunities can be explored seamlessly without always seeking approval.
How RAS Corporate Advisors Can Help
With years of experience in setting up real estate businesses, RAS Corporate Advisors will guide you through the licensing and compliance process for DED mainland registration.
- Assistance will be given ORN certificate and RERA broker card.
- Advice on the cost-effectiveness of free zones such as DMCC.
- Support with tax registrations and bank accounts starts.
Are you poised to open your real estate brokerage office in Dubai? Then contact us now for professional consultancy and hassle-free setup!