Mortgage Advisers And Brokers Business License in Dubai
Dubai's property market has consistently ranked among the most active in the world, with residential and commercial transactions reaching record highs in recent years. As property values rise and international investors continue to enter the market, the demand for professional mortgage advisory and brokerage services has grown substantially. For entrepreneurs and financial professionals looking to capitalise on this opportunity, obtaining a Mortgage Advisers and Brokers Business License in Dubai is a well-defined and achievable pathway.
This guide covers everything you need to know about setting up under activity code 6619.03 at Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone, including what the license covers, who it suits, setup costs, and the compliance requirements involved.
Understanding the Mortgage Advisers and Brokers Activity
The Mortgage Advisers and Brokers license falls under the Financial category and carries the activity code 6619.03. This classification aligns with the International Standard Industrial Classification (ISIC) framework, which groups financial service activities not elsewhere classified under this code.
Under this license, businesses are authorised to:
Provide independent mortgage advice to individuals and corporate clients
Act as intermediaries between borrowers and lending institutions
Assess client eligibility and match them with suitable mortgage products
Facilitate the application and approval process for home and commercial loans
Offer guidance on refinancing, equity release, and loan restructuring
The license type issued is a Business License, which permits the holder to conduct these financial intermediary activities within and from the free zone.
Dubai's Mortgage and Property Market: Current Context
Dubai's real estate sector recorded over 180,000 property transactions in 2023, with total transaction values exceeding AED 634 billion, according to the Dubai Land Department. Mortgage-backed purchases have formed a growing share of these transactions, driven by competitive interest rates, a stable regulatory environment, and sustained demand from expatriates and international buyers.
The UAE Central Bank regulates mortgage lending, capping loan-to-value ratios at 80 percent for first-time buyers of properties valued under AED 5 million. This structured framework creates consistent demand for knowledgeable mortgage advisers who can help clients navigate lending criteria, documentation requirements, and product comparisons across multiple banks and lenders.
Key Statistics at a Glance
Activity Code: 6619.03 - Mortgage Advisers and Brokers
License Type: Business License
Category: Financial
Free Zone: Dubai South Business Hub
Foreign Ownership: 100 percent permitted
Dubai Property Transactions (2023): Over 180,000 deals
UAE Mortgage LTV Cap: Up to 80 percent for first-time buyers
Typical Setup Timeline: 2 to 4 weeks
Who Is This License Suited For?
The Mortgage Advisers and Brokers license is ideal for a range of professionals and business types, including:
Independent financial advisers seeking to specialise in property finance
Mortgage brokers relocating from the UK, Europe, or other regulated markets
Real estate agencies wishing to offer in-house mortgage advisory services
Banks and financial institutions establishing regional advisory arms
Entrepreneurs building digital mortgage comparison or advisory platforms
Setting Up at Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone
Why Dubai South?
Dubai South is a purpose-built economic zone positioned near Al Maktoum International Airport. The Business Hub within Dubai South offers streamlined company formation, 100 percent foreign ownership, zero personal income tax, and full repatriation of profits. Its proximity to major logistics and business corridors makes it attractive for financial service providers serving both local and international clients.
Setup Steps
The process for obtaining your Mortgage Advisers and Brokers Business License at Dubai South Business Hub involves the following steps:
Step 1: Select the activity code 6619.03 and confirm the Business License type with the free zone authority
Step 2: Submit the application form along with passport copies, business plan, and proposed company name
Step 3: Receive initial approval and proceed with payment of license fees
Step 4: Sign the lease agreement for your chosen office or flexi-desk facility
Step 5: Obtain the trade license and proceed with visa applications if required
Costs and Fees
Cost Component | Estimated Range (AED) |
|---|---|
Trade License Fee | 12,500 - 20,000 |
Registration Fee | 2,000 - 5,000 |
Flexi-Desk or Office Lease | 7,500 - 25,000 per annum |
Visa Fees (per person) | 3,000 - 5,000 |
Miscellaneous Government Fees | 1,000 - 3,000 |
Total setup costs typically range from AED 25,000 to AED 55,000 depending on the size of the operation, number of visas required, and office type selected.
Licensing and Compliance Requirements
Mortgage advisory businesses operating in the UAE must adhere to several regulatory requirements beyond the free zone license itself. Key compliance considerations include:
Registration with the UAE Central Bank if the business involves arranging credit or mortgage products directly with regulated lenders
Anti-money laundering (AML) and know-your-customer (KYC) procedures in line with UAE Federal Decree-Law No. 20 of 2018
Annual license renewal with the free zone authority
Maintenance of proper client records and disclosure documentation
Compliance with the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) requirements if services extend to property-linked advisory
Why Dubai Is Well-Positioned for Mortgage Advisory Services
Dubai offers a uniquely favourable environment for mortgage advisory businesses for several reasons. The city's status as a global financial hub attracts high-net-worth individuals, institutional investors, and expatriate professionals who regularly require mortgage guidance. The UAE's tax-neutral environment allows businesses to retain a greater share of advisory fees and commissions. Additionally, the country's robust legal framework, transparent land registry system, and strong banking sector provide the infrastructure that mortgage advisers depend on.
The growing adoption of digital financial services in the UAE also opens opportunities for technology-enabled mortgage advisory platforms, which can reach clients across the GCC region from a Dubai South base.
Related Activities
Mortgage Consultancy Business License
Real Estate Mortgage Consultancy Business License
Real Estate Mortgage Broker Business License
