How to Get a Real Estate Valuation Services Business License in Dubai
Dubai's property market recorded transaction volumes exceeding AED 528 billion in 2023, making it one of the most active real estate markets in the world. Behind every transaction, mortgage, and investment decision sits a critical professional service: real estate valuation. As demand for accurate, independent property assessments grows across the emirate and the wider Gulf region, securing a Real Estate Valuation Services business license in Dubai represents a compelling opportunity for professionals and firms alike.
This guide covers everything you need to know about obtaining a Business License under Activity Code 6820.94 at Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone, including costs, steps, compliance requirements, and why this jurisdiction is ideally placed for this trade.
What Is the Real Estate Valuation Services License?
The Real Estate Valuation Services license falls under the Real Estate category and is classified with Activity Code 6820.94. It permits the holder to provide professional valuation assessments of residential, commercial, and industrial properties. Licensed activities typically cover:
Conducting independent market valuations for sale, purchase, or rental purposes
Preparing valuation reports for mortgage and financing applications
Providing assessment services for insurance, legal disputes, and investment analysis
Advising clients on property worth based on market data and comparable transactions
The license is issued as a Business License, which is appropriate for service-oriented activities carried out within or from the free zone.
Why Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone?
Dubai South is a 145-square-kilometre master-planned city built around Al Maktoum International Airport, which is projected to become the world's largest airport. The Business Hub within this zone offers a streamlined, investor-friendly environment with 100% foreign ownership, zero personal income tax, and full repatriation of profits. For real estate valuation firms looking to serve the UAE and the broader MENA region, the location provides exceptional connectivity and a credible regulatory framework.
Who Is This License Suited For?
This license is well suited to a broad range of professionals and organisations, including:
Chartered surveyors and valuation professionals relocating to or expanding into the UAE
Property consultancy firms seeking to add valuation services to their portfolio
Financial institutions that require an in-house or affiliated valuation entity
International real estate advisory groups establishing a regional hub
Entrepreneurs with a background in property appraisal or asset management
Key Stats at a Glance
Infographic: Real Estate Valuation License in Dubai South
Activity Code: 6820.94
License Type: Business License
Category: Real Estate
Foreign Ownership: 100% permitted
Corporate Tax: 0% on qualifying free zone income
Dubai Property Transactions (2023): Over AED 528 billion
Typical Setup Timeline: 3 to 7 working days
Minimum Office Requirement: Flexi-desk or virtual office options available
Setup Costs and Steps
Estimated Costs
Cost Component | Estimated Amount (AED) |
|---|---|
License registration fee | From AED 12,500 |
Flexi-desk or office space | From AED 5,000 per annum |
Visa fees (per person) | From AED 3,500 |
Government and notarisation fees | AED 1,000 to AED 2,500 |
Costs vary depending on the number of shareholders, visa allocations, and the type of workspace selected. It is advisable to request a tailored quotation from the free zone authority or an authorised business setup consultant.
Step-by-Step Setup Process
Step 1 - Choose your business activity: Confirm that Activity Code 6820.94 aligns with your intended services.
Step 2 - Select a company structure: Free zone companies are typically established as Free Zone Establishments (FZE) for sole owners or Free Zone Companies (FZC) for multiple shareholders.
Step 3 - Reserve your trade name: Submit your preferred trade name to Dubai South for approval, ensuring it complies with UAE naming conventions.
Step 4 - Submit your application: Provide passport copies, visa pages, a business plan, and completed application forms.
Step 5 - Secure office space: Select a flexi-desk, co-working space, or dedicated office within the free zone.
Step 6 - Receive your license: Upon approval and payment, your Business License is issued, typically within 3 to 7 working days.
Step 7 - Apply for residency visas: Use your license to apply for investor or employee visas as required.
Licensing and Compliance Requirements
Beyond the free zone license, real estate valuation professionals operating in Dubai should be aware of the following regulatory considerations:
Valuers providing services in the broader Dubai market may need to register with the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) under the Dubai Land Department (DLD).
Professional indemnity insurance is strongly recommended and may be required for certain institutional clients.
Annual license renewal is mandatory, and companies must maintain a registered address within the free zone.
Anti-money laundering (AML) compliance obligations apply to real estate service providers under UAE Federal Law.
Why Dubai Is Well-Positioned for This Trade
Dubai's real estate sector continues to attract global capital. The emirate ranked among the top five cities globally for prime residential price growth in 2023. Government-backed initiatives such as long-term residency visas, the Golden Visa programme, and ongoing infrastructure investment have sustained strong demand for property transactions and, by extension, professional valuation services.
The UAE's strategic location between Europe, Asia, and Africa also positions Dubai-based valuation firms to serve clients across multiple time zones, making it a natural regional hub for real estate advisory and assessment services.
Related Activities
Real Estate Consultancies Business License
Jointly Owned Property Management Services Business License
Real Estate Buying & Selling Business License
