Real Estate Development in Abu Dhabi DED
Starting From
AED 10,000
Setup Time
3 Business Days
Visa Quota
0 Visas
Location
Abu Dhabi
About Real Estate Development
As a British national looking to establish a Real Estate Development business in Abu Dhabi Mainland, the UAE offers one of the most welcoming environments for international entrepreneurs. United Kingdom has strong bilateral trade relations with the UAE, and thousands of British professionals have already successfully set up businesses across the emirates.
As a mainland entity regulated under Abu Dhabi's commercial laws, your Real Estate Development business will benefit from capital city strategic advantage and government project access. The Abu Dhabi DED licensing framework is designed to accommodate both start-ups and established firms, with annual licence fees starting from approximately AED 10,000.
With over two decades of experience in UAE business formation, IBA International provides end-to-end support for your real estate development setup in Abu Dhabi DED. Our dedicated advisors handle the paperwork, government liaisons, and compliance requirements, so you can focus on building your business from day one.
Why Abu Dhabi DED for Real Estate Development?
There are several compelling reasons why Abu Dhabi Mainland continues to attract real estate development entrepreneurs from around the world.
The jurisdiction offers capital city strategic advantage, which is particularly valuable for real estate development operations. Additionally, government project access ensures that your business remains competitive in the regional market. Operating on the mainland allows you to trade directly with the local UAE market without restrictions, and you can bid on government contracts — a significant advantage over free zone entities. Office solutions start from AED 6,000 per year for a co-working, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes. Trade anywhere in UAE further enhances the appeal of Abu Dhabi DED for real estate development professionals. Furthermore, growing economic diversification positions your real estate development business for long-term success in the region. With Abu Dhabi continuing to invest in infrastructure and business-friendly regulation, Abu Dhabi DED 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 British nationals specifically, the Abu Dhabi government has fostered a business-friendly environment with streamlined processes that cater to the large British business community.
Visa Requirements for British Nationals
Banking for British Business Owners
Document Attestation for British Nationals
Requirements & Documents
Regulatory Note: Real Estate Development 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 | 10,000 |
| Visa Package (per visa) | 4,000 |
| Ejari Office | 12,000 |
| Co-Working | 6,000 |
| Private Office | 25,000 |
| Estimated Total (Year 1) | From AED 26,000 |
* 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 development business plan and the best Abu Dhabi DED licence options for British nationals.
Document Preparation
Prepare and attest all required documents from United Kingdom through Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and the UAE Embassy.
Licence Application
Submit the real estate development licence application to Abu Dhabi DED. IBA handles all paperwork and government interactions.
Trade Licence Issued
Receive your official Abu Dhabi DED trade licence within 3–6 business days.
Visa Processing
Process your UAE residence visa, Emirates ID, and medical fitness. British nationals can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 days.
Bank Account
Open a corporate bank account. British nationals generally experience smooth corporate bank account opening.
Start Operations
Your real estate development business is ready to operate in the UAE. IBA provides ongoing PRO, accounting, and compliance support.
Total estimated time: 3 business days. IBA handles the entire process end-to-end so you can focus on your business.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Since the UAE's 2020 Commercial Companies Law amendment, British nationals can own 100% of most mainland business activities including real estate development.
Real Estate Development in Other Jurisdictions
Get Started Today
Ready to set up your real estate development in Abu Dhabi DED? Our team is here to help.
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Official Source
added.gov.ae ↗Popular in Abu Dhabi DED
By IBA Business Setup Team
Last updated: 26 February 2026
International Business Advisors DMCC has been helping entrepreneurs set up businesses in the UAE since 2004, with 20+ years of hands-on expertise.
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