What documents does a Filipino national need to start a real estate brokerage business in the UAE?

You will need a valid Philippines passport (minimum 6 months validity), passport-sized photos, proof of address in Philippines, attested documents via Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), and a business plan for your real estate brokerage venture.

How long does it take for a Filipino citizen to set up a real estate brokerage company in SHAMS?

The complete process — from initial application to trade licence issuance — typically takes 2–5 business days. Adding visa processing and bank account opening, the total timeline is approximately 12–22 business days.

Can a foreigner own 100% of a Real Estate Brokerage company in Sharjah Media City?

Yes, SHAMS allows 100% foreign ownership with no requirement for a local partner or sponsor. This is one of the key advantages of establishing your business in this jurisdiction.

How long does it take to get a Real Estate Brokerage licence in SHAMS?

The typical processing time for a real estate brokerage licence at SHAMS is 2 business days, subject to document completeness and any regulatory approvals. As a regulated activity requiring RERA approval, additional time of 1-3 weeks may be required.

How much does it cost to set up a Real Estate Brokerage business in Sharjah Media City?

The total setup cost for a Real Estate Brokerage business in SHAMS starts from approximately AED 6,150 for the trade licence. Additional costs include visa processing (AED 3,200 per visa), office space, and establishment card fees. IBA provides a detailed cost breakdown during your free consultation.

What are the annual renewal costs for a Real Estate Brokerage business in Sharjah Media City?

The annual licence renewal for a Real Estate Brokerage SHAMS company costs approximately AED 6,150, which covers the trade licence fee. Additional annual costs may include office space rental, visa renewal, and establishment card fees. IBA provides renewal services to ensure uninterrupted business operations.

Can I get a residence visa with my Real Estate Brokerage licence from SHAMS?

Yes, your real estate brokerage licence from SHAMS entitles you to apply for residence visas. The standard package includes 3 visa(s), with the option to apply for additional visas based on your office space. Each visa costs approximately AED 3,200.

Real Estate Brokerage in Sharjah Media City for Filipino nationals

Free ZoneReal EstateRegulated Activity

Real Estate Brokerage in SHAMS

Starting From

AED 6,150

Setup Time

2 Business Days

Visa Quota

3 Visas

Location

Sharjah

About Real Estate Brokerage

Setting up a Real Estate Brokerage business in Sharjah Media City as a Filipino citizen is a straightforward process when you understand the specific requirements that apply to Philippines-based entrepreneurs. IBA International has helped hundreds of Filipino business owners navigate the licensing, visa, and banking procedures unique to their nationality.

The licensing process at SHAMS has been streamlined significantly, with most real estate licences processed within 2 business days. As a free zone entity, you will enjoy 100% foreign ownership with no requirement for a local sponsor. The base licence fee is approximately AED 6,150, making it one of the most affordable options in the UAE.

At IBA International, we simplify the process of establishing your real estate brokerage business in Sharjah Media City. From selecting the right licence type to securing your visa and opening a corporate bank account, our experienced team ensures every detail is handled professionally and efficiently.

Why SHAMS for Real Estate Brokerage?

Sharjah Media City is widely regarded as one of the UAE's premier destinations for real estate businesses, and for good reason.

The jurisdiction offers budget-friendly from aed 6,150, which is particularly valuable for real estate brokerage operations. Additionally, fast setup process 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 2,500 per year for a flexi desk, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes. The standard licence includes a visa quota of 3 residency visas, with options to increase this number as your team grows. 100% foreign ownership further enhances the appeal of SHAMS for real estate brokerage professionals. Furthermore, no physical office requirement positions your real estate brokerage business for long-term success in the region. With Sharjah continuing to invest in infrastructure and business-friendly regulation, SHAMS 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 Filipino nationals specifically, the Sharjah government has fostered a business-friendly environment with streamlined processes that cater to the large Filipino business community.

Budget-friendly from AED 6,150

Fast setup process

100% foreign ownership

No physical office requirement

Media and creative focus

Visa Requirements for Filipino Nationals

For Filipino entrepreneurs, the visa process works as follows: Filipino nationals require a pre-arranged UAE visa. Employment or investor visa is processed through the company after incorporation. IBA handles the complete immigration procedure — from entry permit to residence visa stamping — so you can focus on launching your real estate brokerage business in SHAMS.

Banking for Filipino Business Owners

Opening a corporate bank account for your real estate brokerage company in SHAMS: Filipino entrepreneurs can open corporate accounts with standard documentation. A solid business plan helps expedite the process. IBA has established relationships with major UAE banks and will personally introduce you to relationship managers who understand Filipino business structures.

Document Attestation for Filipino Nationals

Document attestation for Filipino nationals involves: (1) Notarisation in Philippines, (2) Attestation by Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), (3) UAE Embassy attestation in Dubai. IBA provides a complete attestation checklist specific to real estate brokerage businesses to ensure nothing is missed.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid Philippines passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA)

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

4Completed application form for trade licence

5Passport-sized photographs with white background

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

7Proof of residential address (utility bill or bank statement)

8Detailed business plan or activity description

Regulatory Note: Real Estate Brokerage 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	6,150
Visa Package (per visa)	3,200
Flexi Desk	2,500
Shared Office	6,000
Private Office	15,000
Estimated Total (Year 1)	From AED 11,850

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

Setup Timeline

Consultation

Free consultation with IBA to discuss your real estate brokerage business plan and the best SHAMS licence options for Filipino nationals.

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from Philippines through Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and the UAE Embassy.

Licence Application

Submit the real estate brokerage licence application to SHAMS. IBA handles all paperwork and government interactions.

Trade Licence Issued

Receive your official SHAMS trade licence within 2–5 business days.

Visa Processing

Process your UAE residence visa, Emirates ID, and medical fitness. Filipino nationals require a pre-arranged UAE visa.

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. Filipino entrepreneurs can open corporate accounts with standard documentation.

Start Operations

Your real estate brokerage business is ready to operate in the UAE. IBA provides ongoing PRO, accounting, and compliance support.

Total estimated time: 2 business days. IBA handles the entire process end-to-end so you can focus on your business.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Real Estate Brokerage 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