Vehicle sales agency operations support Dubai’s vibrant motor vehicle ecosystem by connecting buyers and sellers through commission-based intermediation. The UAE used car market is valued at USD 20.55 billion in 2025 with growth to USD 39.58 billion by 2031 at 11.52% CAGR,¹ while individual sellers command 59.28% share of the UAE used cars market in 2025.¹

Digital platforms such as CarSwitch, DubiCars, and Cars24 simplify inspection, valuation, and financing,² creating opportunities for tech-enabled brokerage and commission agency models. The shift toward organised retailing is gradually lifting the role of professional brokers and commission agents in the market.

This sub-activity covers commission-based vehicle sales, ideal for brokers, agencies, and intermediaries facilitating vehicle transactions on behalf of sellers and buyers.

4510.03 - Wholesale And Retail Sale By Commission Agents

Under this activity, you are in the business of operating a licensed vehicle sales agency business, acting as a commission agent representing sellers and buyers in motor vehicle transactions, including new and used vehicle brokerage.

Services are delivered under the relevant regulatory oversight with appropriate facilities, systems, and qualified personnel.¹

What Does the Vehicle Sales Agency Licence Cover?

• Commission-based sales: representing vehicle sellers in finding buyers, with commission earned per transaction.

• Buyer representation: acting on behalf of buyers to source specific vehicles.

• Vehicle inspection and valuation: in-house vehicle inspection and pricing services as part of brokerage.

• Digital brokerage: online platforms and digital intermediation services.

• Documentation and transfer assistance: handling sale paperwork and ownership transfer coordination.

Who Is This For?

• Vehicle brokers and commission agents serving private sellers and buyers.

• Digital vehicle marketplaces and online brokerage platforms.

• Specialty vehicle finders sourcing classic, exotic, or rare vehicles for buyers.

• Auction representatives bidding on behalf of clients.

Activity Scope

This licence covers commission-based vehicle sales. Direct vehicle ownership and trading is covered under 4510.01 or the parent 4510. The agent does not own or stock vehicles under this code.

In short: if you broker vehicle sales for a commission without taking ownership, you are in. If you own and trade vehicles directly, you need a different sub-code.

Licensing & Compliance

Standard free zone licensing applies. Commission agents must comply with UAE consumer protection laws and provide accurate vehicle disclosures. Documentation and ownership transfers go through UAE RTA processes.

Cost & Investment

Setup costs at Dubai South Business Hub start from approximately AED 12,500 to AED 18,000 per year for licence and office package. Use the cost calculator for tailored pricing.

Setup Steps

1. Verify name with company name check.

2. Select Wholesale and Retail Sale by Commission Agents (4510.03) from the business activities directory.

3. Choose office package matching team size.

4. Submit passport copies, MOA, and lease.

5. Receive licence within 5 to 10 working days.

6. Process visas for sales staff.

Why Dubai for Vehicle Sales Agency?

Dubai’s vehicle market with 59.28% individual seller share¹ creates strong demand for professional brokerage services. The growth of digital platforms² and trend toward organised retailing make it an excellent time for commission agents to enter the market. Free zones offer 100% foreign ownership and tax efficiency.

References

1. Mordor Intelligence, UAE Used Car Market: mordorintelligence.com/uae-used-car-market

2. MarknTel Advisors, UAE Used Cars Market: marknteladvisors.com/used-cars-market-uae

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this licence cover?

Commission-based vehicle sales, including representing sellers and buyers, vehicle inspection, valuation, and documentation services.

Can I own and trade vehicles under this licence?

No, vehicle ownership and direct trading is covered under 4510.01 or the parent 4510. This licence is for commission agency only.

How much does setup cost?

From AED 12,500 to AED 18,000 annually for licence and office package.

Do I need third-party approval?

Standard free zone approval is typically sufficient. Commission agents must comply with UAE consumer protection laws.

How long does setup take?

5 to 10 working days for licence issuance.

Can I operate a digital marketplace?

Yes, online brokerage platforms and digital marketplaces are within scope.

Can I assist with vehicle inspection?

Yes, vehicle inspection and valuation as part of brokerage services is within scope.

What office space do I need?

A flexi-desk works for solo operators. Larger teams may want dedicated office space.

Can I sponsor staff visas?

Yes, visa quotas scale with office package.

Is the licence renewable annually?

Yes, annual renewal is standard.

Can I add direct vehicle trading later?

Yes, compatible additional activities can be added at renewal.

Can a sole owner hold this licence?

Yes, 100% foreign ownership is permitted.

Can I represent buyers at auctions?

Yes, auction representation on behalf of clients is within scope.

Can I serve clients across the GCC?

Yes, free zone licences allow regional invoicing.