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 licence, 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 Licence 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 licence covers own-account trading rather than brokerage or agency services on behalf of third parties. Those activities require a separate real estate brokerage licence and registration with the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA).

Who This Licence Suits

This licence 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

• Licence 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 Licence 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 licence 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 licence and registration fees

• Step 5: Receive your business licence and proceed with visa applications if required

Typical costs include the business licence 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

Licence holders must remain compliant with UAE federal regulations and free zone rules. Key obligations include:

• Annual licence 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

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much does a Real Estate Buying & Selling Business License cost at Dubai South?

Licence fees vary depending on the package selected, visa quota, and office arrangement. Costs typically begin from a few thousand US dollars annually. Contact Dubai South Business Hub directly for the most current pricing applicable to activity code 6810.99.

2. Can foreign nationals own 100% of the company?

Yes. Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone permits 100% foreign ownership with no requirement for a local UAE national shareholder.

3. Are any additional approvals required beyond the business licence?

For own-account property trading, the business licence is the primary requirement. However, if your activities involve property transactions registered with the Dubai Land Department, you must comply with DLD procedures. Brokerage or agency activities require separate RERA registration.

4. How long does it take to set up the company?

Incorporation can typically be completed within 3 to 7 working days, subject to document verification and payment processing.

5. What profit margins can real estate trading businesses expect in Dubai?

Margins vary significantly depending on property type, location, market timing, and holding period. Off-plan properties have historically offered capital appreciation of 20% to 40% or more in high-demand areas, though past performance is not indicative of future results.

6. Can a Dubai South free zone company buy property anywhere in the UAE?

Free zone companies may purchase property in designated freehold areas approved for foreign ownership. It is advisable to seek legal counsel to confirm eligibility for specific transactions and locations.

7. Is physical office space required to obtain this licence?

Dubai South Business Hub offers flexi-desk and virtual office arrangements that satisfy the licence's registered address requirement, making it accessible to lean operations and start-ups without the need for dedicated office space.

8. Is real estate trading subject to UAE Corporate Tax?

UAE Corporate Tax at 9% applies to taxable income exceeding AED 375,000. Free zone entities may qualify for a 0% rate on qualifying income if they meet the substance and activity conditions prescribed under the Corporate Tax Law. Professional tax advice is recommended to assess eligibility.

Conclusion

A Real Estate Buying & Selling Business License at Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone offers a credible, compliant, and commercially attractive structure for property investors and trading companies. With 100% foreign ownership, a fast setup process, and access to one of the world's most active property markets, Dubai South provides the infrastructure and regulatory environment needed to build a serious real estate trading business.

Whether you are an individual investor, a family office, or an international company seeking a UAE base for property transactions, activity code 6810.99 under a Business License at Dubai South is a well-defined route to market. Speak with the Dubai South Business Hub team today to begin your application and take advantage of the current market opportunity.

References and Citations

• Dubai Land Department - Official Portal

• Dubai South - Official Free Zone Authority

• Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) - Dubai

• UAE Ministry of Finance - Corporate Tax

• UAE Anti-Money Laundering and Combating the Financing of Terrorism - goAML

• UAE Ministry of Economy - Business Registration