Real Estate Development in DMC
Starting From
AED 15,000
Setup Time
5 Business Days
Visa Quota
5 Visas
Location
Dubai
About Real Estate Development
The UAE continues to attract Chinese entrepreneurs seeking to tap into the Middle Eastern market, and DMC is one of the most popular jurisdictions for real estate development operations. Rapidly growing community in the UAE (~300,000), which means you will find an established support network, community events, and nationality-specific resources to help your business thrive.
Operating from Dubai Media City gives your Real Estate Development business access to Dubai's world-class infrastructure, including modern office facilities such as flexi desk, shared office, private office and excellent connectivity. As a regulated activity, you will need approval from RERA before commencing operations, but IBA's team handles this process seamlessly on your behalf.
IBA International has been helping entrepreneurs set up real estate development businesses in Dubai Media City since 2004. Our team of incorporation specialists will guide you through every step, from initial consultation to licence issuance and bank account opening, ensuring a smooth and efficient setup experience.
Why DMC for Real Estate Development?
Choosing DMC for your real estate development business comes with a host of strategic advantages that directly impact your bottom line and growth potential.
The jurisdiction offers middle east media hub, which is particularly valuable for real estate development 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 real estate development professionals. Furthermore, 100% foreign ownership positions your real estate development 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 Chinese nationals specifically, the Dubai government has fostered a business-friendly environment with streamlined processes that cater to the large Chinese business community.
Visa Requirements for Chinese Nationals
Banking for Chinese Business Owners
Document Attestation for Chinese 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 | 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 real estate development business plan and the best DMC licence options for Chinese nationals.
Document Preparation
Prepare and attest all required documents from China through Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs / CCPIT and the UAE Embassy.
Licence Application
Submit the real estate development 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. Chinese nationals can obtain a UAE visa on arrival for 30 days.
Bank Account
Open a corporate bank account. Chinese entrepreneurs benefit from strong UAE-China trade relations.
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: 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 Chinese nationals. No local sponsor or partner is required.
Real Estate Development in Other Jurisdictions
Get Started Today
Ready to set up your real estate development in DMC? Our team is here to help.
SPEAK TO AN ADVISORWHATSAPP USQuick Facts
Official Source
dmc.ae ↗Popular in DMC
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.
Ready to Start Your Real Estate Development?
Get a personalised quote for setting up your real estate development in DMC. Our advisors are ready to guide you through every step.