Fifty Emiratis can now train as real estate brokers and launch their own firms through a new initiative by Dubai Land Department (DLD). The ‘UAE Real Estate Incubator Program’ is part of the ‘The Emirates, the Startup Capital of the World’ campaign, designed to enhance entrepreneurship and generate more jobs for citizens.
Announced at a press conference with DLD Director General Omar Bu Shehab, he stated that this initiative is “a pivotal moment for the real estate sector,” aligning with the broader national entrepreneurship goals.
The incubator’s first phase will train 50 Emiratis in two groups of 25, starting on October 27, 2025. By the end of 2026, it aims to establish 50 Emirati-owned companies, moving beyond just individual brokers.
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“Our goal is to cultivate brokers skilled in negotiation and innovation, enhancing Dubai’s appeal and competitiveness,” Bu Shehab commented.
Currently, DLD notes there are 30,000 active brokers in Dubai, with 676 being Emiratis. Since mid-2023, over 1,800 Emirati brokers have been certified, marking a 180% increase, contributing Dh10 billion in transactions.
The incubator offers a robust support package, including:
• Training and qualification via the New Economics Academy
• A dedicated real estate registration trustee
• Access to shared HR, finance, and tech services
• A content creation studio and tech lab
• Partnerships with international broker networks and four real estate tech firms
• An “Intilaq” license for graduates
Abdullah Al Shehhi from DLD stated that the program supports the Dubai Economic Agenda, Dubai Social Agenda 33, and Real Estate Strategy 2033, empowering participants to open and manage their companies, boost Emirati competitiveness, and create sustainable income sources.
The six-month course covers company setup, market analysis, feasibility studies, legal frameworks, sales, financing, and urban planning, with a year of post-training mentorship from expert consultants.
Launched on September 21 by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the campaign aims to train 10,000 Emiratis, support 250 new real estate firms, and create 30,000 jobs in five years.
Additional initiatives include:
• Entrepreneurship Programme: Training 10,000 Emiratis to start and grow businesses
• Emirati Tax Agent Programme: Licensing 500 Emiratis as certified tax agents in three years, in collaboration with the Federal Tax Authority
• Specialised Content Creator Programme: Training 50 Emiratis in producing economic and entrepreneurial content
