What documents does an Australian national need to start a property management business in the UAE?

You will need a valid Australia passport (minimum 6 months validity), passport-sized photos, proof of address in Australia, attested documents via Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and a business plan for your property management venture.

How long does it take for an Australian citizen to set up a property management company in DMC?

The complete process — from initial application to trade licence issuance — typically takes 5–8 business days. Adding visa processing and bank account opening, the total timeline is approximately 15–25 business days.

Is Dubai Media City good for property management start-ups?

DMC is well-suited for both start-ups and established businesses, offering middle east media hub and home to international media houses. Flexible office solutions starting from AED 12,000 per year help keep initial overheads manageable.

What are the tax implications for a Property Management business in Dubai Media City?

The UAE introduced a 9% corporate tax on profits exceeding AED 375,000 (effective June 2023). Free zone companies like those in DMC may qualify for a 0% corporate tax rate on qualifying income, provided they meet the substance requirements and do not conduct business with the mainland. There is no personal income tax in the UAE. VAT at 5% applies to most goods and services.

Can I get a residence visa with my Property Management licence from DMC?

Yes, your property management licence from DMC entitles you to apply for residence visas. The standard package includes 5 visa(s), with the option to apply for additional visas based on your office space. Each visa costs approximately AED 5,000.

Do I need to be physically present in the UAE to set up a Property Management company in DMC?

Most of the setup process for a property management business in DMC can be completed remotely, with documents submitted online or via courier. However, you may need to visit the UAE for Emirates ID biometrics and bank account opening. IBA can coordinate to minimise your required visits.

What documents do I need to set up a Property Management business in DMC?

The standard documents required include: passport copies of all shareholders, passport-sized photographs, a completed application form, a business plan or activity description, and proof of address. As a regulated activity, you will also need to provide professional qualifications or certifications required by RERA. IBA handles all document preparation and submission on your behalf.

Property Management in Dubai Media City for Australian nationals

Free ZoneReal EstateRegulated Activity

Property Management in DMC

Starting From

AED 15,000

Setup Time

5 Business Days

Visa Quota

5 Visas

Location

Dubai

About Property Management

As an Australian national looking to establish a Property Management business in Dubai Media City, the UAE offers one of the most welcoming environments for international entrepreneurs. Australia has strong bilateral trade relations with the UAE, and thousands of Australian professionals have already successfully set up businesses across the emirates.

As a free zone entity regulated under Dubai's commercial laws, your Property Management business will benefit from middle east media hub and home to international media houses. The DMC licensing framework is designed to accommodate both start-ups and established firms, with annual licence fees starting from approximately AED 15,000.

With over two decades of experience in UAE business formation, IBA International provides end-to-end support for your property management setup in DMC. Our dedicated advisors handle the paperwork, government liaisons, and compliance requirements, so you can focus on building your business from day one.

Why DMC for Property Management?

There are several compelling reasons why Dubai Media City continues to attract property management entrepreneurs from around the world.

The jurisdiction offers middle east media hub, which is particularly valuable for property management operations. Additionally, home to international media houses ensures that your business remains competitive in the regional market. As a free zone entity, your business enjoys complete repatriation of profits and capital, with no currency restrictions on transactions. Office solutions start from AED 12,000 per year for a flexi desk, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes. The standard licence includes a visa quota of 5 residency visas, with options to increase this number as your team grows. Full media production ecosystem further enhances the appeal of DMC for property management professionals. Furthermore, 100% foreign ownership positions your property management business for long-term success in the region. With Dubai continuing to invest in infrastructure and business-friendly regulation, DMC remains an excellent choice for both start-ups and established real estate enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.

For Australian nationals specifically, the Dubai government has fostered a business-friendly environment with streamlined processes that cater to the large Australian business community.

Middle East media hub

Home to international media houses

Full media production ecosystem

100% foreign ownership

Creative industry networking

Visa Requirements for Australian Nationals

Australian nationals can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 days. For business setup, a residence visa is processed after company incorporation. Once your property management licence is issued by DMC, IBA will process your residence visa application, Emirates ID, and medical fitness tests. The entire process typically takes 10–17 business days from licence approval to visa stamping.

Banking for Australian Business Owners

Australian nationals generally experience smooth corporate bank account opening. Commonwealth banking standards are recognised by UAE banks. For your property management business in DMC, IBA recommends opening a corporate account with a bank that has experience serving Australian business owners. We will prepare your banking file including the trade licence, shareholder documents, business plan, and any Australia-specific attestations required.

Document Attestation for Australian Nationals

Australian nationals setting up a business in the UAE will need to attest certain documents through Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. This typically includes your passport copy, educational certificates (if applicable for property management), and any existing business documents. The attestation must then be verified by the UAE Embassy in Abu Dhabi before submission to DMC.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid Australia passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

4Relevant industry experience documentation

5Passport copies of all shareholders and directors (valid for at least 6 months)

6Detailed business plan or activity description

7Entry stamp or valid UAE visa copy (if applying from within the UAE)

8Proposed company name (2-3 alternatives)

Regulatory Note: Property Management is a regulated activity in the UAE. Additional approval from RERA is required. IBA can guide you through the full regulatory process.

Cost Breakdown

Item	Cost (AED)
License Fee	15,000
Visa Package (per visa)	5,000
Flexi Desk	12,000
Shared Office	20,000
Private Office	45,000
Estimated Total (Year 1)	From AED 32,000

* Costs are indicative and subject to change. Contact IBA for a personalised quote.

Setup Timeline

Consultation

Free consultation with IBA to discuss your property management business plan and the best DMC licence options for Australian nationals.

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from Australia through Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and the UAE Embassy.

Licence Application

Submit the property management licence application to DMC. IBA handles all paperwork and government interactions.

Trade Licence Issued

Receive your official DMC trade licence within 5–8 business days.

Visa Processing

Process your UAE residence visa, Emirates ID, and medical fitness. Australian nationals can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 days.

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. Australian nationals generally experience smooth corporate bank account opening.

Start Operations

Your property management business is ready to operate in the UAE. IBA provides ongoing PRO, accounting, and compliance support.

Total estimated time: 5 business days. IBA handles the entire process end-to-end so you can focus on your business.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. DMC allows 100% foreign ownership for all nationalities, including Australian nationals. No local sponsor or partner is required.

Property Management in Other Jurisdictions

SHAMS

From AED 6,150

RAKEZ

From AED 7,500

DIFC

From AED 12,000

Abu Dhabi DED

From AED 10,000

JAFZA

From AED 16,000

Dubai DED

From AED 12,000

DMCC

From AED 15,300

IFZA

From AED 11,750