Question: I own an apartment in mainland Dubai and would like to know if it is necessary to engage a real estate agent to rent it out. Additionally, could you please provide an overview of the legal requirements involved in this process?
Answer: In Dubai, engaging a real estate broker to rent out your apartment is not mandatory. According to Bylaw No. (85) of 2006, while brokers must be licensed by the Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA), landlords can choose to manage the rental process independently.
If you decide to work with a broker, ensure they are licensed and registered with RERA, as stipulated in Article (3) of the Dubai Real Estate Brokers Law. It’s essential to enter into a written brokerage agreement, which should outline the parties involved, property specifications, and brokerage terms, per Article 26 of the law.
Although using a broker is optional, it can provide valuable expertise in the rental process. If you choose to go this route, conduct due diligence on the broker and verify the authorized signatory of the brokerage firm to protect your interests.
News Source: Khaleej Times
