Real Estate Buying & Selling Business License in Dubai
Dubai's property market recorded over AED 761 billion in total transaction value in 2024, cementing its position as one of the world's most active real estate trading hubs. For entrepreneurs and investors looking to capitalise on this momentum, obtaining a Real Estate Buying & Selling Business License under activity code 6810.99 at Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone is a structured, transparent pathway into one of the emirate's most lucrative sectors.
This guide covers everything you need to know about the license, from what it permits and who it suits, to setup costs, compliance obligations, and why Dubai South is an increasingly attractive base for real estate trading activity.
What the License Covers
The Real Estate Buying & Selling Business License (Activity Code: 6810.99) falls under the Real Estate category and is classified as a Business License. It authorises the holder to engage in the purchase and sale of real estate on an own-account basis. This includes:
Buying and selling of residential and commercial properties
Trading in land plots and built-up units
Real estate investment activities involving direct ownership and disposal of property assets
Dealing in properties held on a leasehold or freehold basis within permitted zones
It is important to note that this license covers own-account trading rather than brokerage or agency services on behalf of third parties. Those activities require a separate real estate brokerage license and registration with the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA).
Who This License Suits
This license is well-suited to a broad range of business profiles, including:
Property investment companies buying and reselling residential or commercial units
Family offices and high-net-worth individuals structuring real estate portfolios through a corporate entity
International investors seeking a UAE-based vehicle for property transactions
Developers and entrepreneurs flipping off-plan or secondary market properties
Foreign nationals wishing to hold and trade Dubai real estate through a free zone company
Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone: The Ideal Base
Dubai South is a master-planned urban destination covering 145 square kilometres and home to Al Maktoum International Airport, which is set to become the world's largest airport upon completion. The free zone offers 100% foreign ownership, zero corporate tax on qualifying income, full profit repatriation, and a streamlined digital incorporation process.
Its proximity to Expo City Dubai, the Dubai World Central logistics corridor, and major road networks makes it strategically positioned for businesses operating across the UAE and the wider GCC region.
Key Stats at a Glance
Activity Code: 6810.99
License Type: Business License
Category: Real Estate
Foreign Ownership: 100% permitted
Corporate Tax Rate: 0% on qualifying free zone income
Dubai Property Transactions (2024): Over AED 761 billion in value
Dubai South Total Area: 145 sq km
Typical License Setup Timeline: 3 to 7 working days
Setup Costs and Steps
Setting up a real estate buying and selling company at Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone involves a straightforward process. Costs vary depending on the chosen package, visa allocation, and office requirements, but the general steps are as follows:
Step-by-Step Process
Step 1: Select your business activity (6810.99) and confirm the license type
Step 2: Choose a company name in line with UAE naming conventions
Step 3: Submit incorporation documents including passport copies and a completed application form
Step 4: Pay the applicable license and registration fees
Step 5: Receive your business license and proceed with visa applications if required
Typical costs include the business license fee, registration fee, and any flexi-desk or office space charges. Visa fees are charged separately per applicant. It is advisable to consult directly with Dubai South Business Hub for current fee schedules, as these are subject to annual revision.
Licensing and Compliance Requirements
License holders must remain compliant with UAE federal regulations and free zone rules. Key obligations include:
Annual license renewal
Compliance with UAE Anti-Money Laundering (AML) regulations, which are particularly relevant for real estate transactions
Registration with the UAE's Ultimate Beneficial Owner (UBO) register
Adherence to the UAE Corporate Tax Law, including maintaining appropriate financial records
Any property transactions within the Dubai Land Department (DLD) jurisdiction must be conducted in line with DLD rules and applicable RERA regulations
Why Dubai Is Well-Positioned for Real Estate Trading
Dubai consistently ranks among the top global cities for real estate investment. Several structural factors underpin this position:
A transparent, digitised property registration system managed by the Dubai Land Department
Strong population growth driven by sustained expatriate inflows and Golden Visa reforms
No property capital gains tax or inheritance tax on real estate assets
Growing demand across both affordable and luxury residential segments
A stable currency pegged to the US dollar, reducing foreign exchange risk for international investors
World-class infrastructure and ongoing mega-project development sustaining long-term demand
Related Activities
Real Estate Consultancies Business License
Real Estate Valuation Services Business License
