RERA Exam: Everything You Need to Know to Get Your RERA Card

If you’re planning to become a real estate agent in Dubai, getting certified by RERA is a must. The Real Estate Regulatory Agency oversees who can legally work in the property market and sets the rules that all agents must follow. One of the first things you’ll need to do is pass the RERA exam—a test that proves you understand local real estate laws, ethics, and how the market works in Dubai.

This guide breaks down every step you need to take, from understanding what the exam is to applying for your RERA card after you pass. Whether you’re new to the industry or coming in with experience from abroad, you’ll find everything here to help you move through the process confidently and meet all the legal requirements.

What is the RERA Exam and Who Needs It?

The RERA exam is a mandatory qualification for individuals who want to work legally in Dubai's real estate market. It is administered by the Dubai Real Estate Institute (DREI) under the supervision of the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA). The RERA exam tests knowledge of local laws, ethical practices, and real estate fundamentals. You have to pass it to get a broker's license and to be able to practice as a certified real estate professional in Dubai.

Understanding the Role of RERA in Dubai

RERA (Real Estate Regulatory Agency) is the regulatory arm of the Dubai Land Department (DLD). It oversees and regulates the real estate sector in the emirate, ensuring transparency, accountability, and legal compliance among brokers, real estate developers, and property managers. Its goal is to build trust and maintain order in the property market through legislation, licensing, and enforcement.

Who Should Take the RERA Exam?

Anyone who wants to work as a real estate broker, leasing agent, or property manager in Dubai must take the RERA exam. This includes UAE residents and foreign nationals planning to obtain a license and practice legally in the market. Even those with prior real estate experience abroad are required to pass the exam to align with local standards and regulations.

Types of Licenses Issued

After passing the RERA exam, candidates receive a license from the Dubai Land Department that matches their intended role. The most common types include the real estate broker license, property management license, and leasing agent license. Each license is tied to specific activities, and professionals must ensure they are operating within the scope of their certification. All licenses are valid for one year and require annual renewal.

RERA Certification Process: Step-by-Step

If you want to become a licensed real estate agent in Dubai, you’ll need to go through the RERA certification process. This involves completing a training course, passing an exam, and keeping your certificate up to date. Here’s how to go through each step.

1. Check if You Meet The Prerequisites for Taking the Exam

Before signing up for the course or exam, make sure you meet the basic conditions. You must be at least 21 years old and have a valid UAE residency visa or Emirates ID. You also need to be comfortable in either English or Arabic, as the course and exam are offered in both languages. You don’t need previous real estate experience, but having a basic understanding of the property market can be helpful.

2. Enroll in the DREI Training Course

The next step is to enroll in the real estate training course offered by the Dubai Real Estate Institute (DREI). This course is required before you can take the RERA exam. It covers important topics like real estate laws in Dubai, how to deal with clients, professional ethics, and how the local property market works. 

The course usually takes around 4 days to complete and is available both online and in-person. You can register for it through the Dubai Land Department website.

3. Book Your RERA Exam

After finishing the course, you’ll need to book your RERA exam. The exam is made up of multiple-choice questions that test your knowledge of what you learned in the training. You can schedule your exam online using the same portal you used to sign up for the course. A passing score is required to apply for your official license, so it’s a good idea to review your course material before the test.

4. Track Deadlines and Understand Certificate Validity

Once you pass the exam, you’ll get your RERA certificate and officially be registered with the Dubai Land Department as a licensed real estate professional. The certificate is valid for one year. To keep your license active, you’ll need to renew it every year. This means taking the training again and redoing the exam. Make sure you track the expiry date so you don’t miss the renewal deadline, as working without a valid certificate isn’t allowed.

What to Expect in the RERA Exam

The RERA exam is the final step in becoming a certified real estate agent or broker in Dubai. It’s based on the material covered in the DREI training course and is designed to make sure you understand the laws, responsibilities, and professional standards required in the property market. Knowing what to expect can help you feel more confident and prepared.

Exam Format and Structure

The RERA exam is a computer-based test made up of multiple-choice questions. You’ll be given a set amount of time (usually around 2 hours) to complete the exam. The number of questions can vary slightly depending on the course, but most exams include 50 to 70 questions.

You’ll need to get a passing score of at least 85% to qualify for certification. The questions are based directly on what you learned during your DREI course, so attending and paying close attention during training is essential.

Key Topics You’ll Be Tested On

The RERA exam covers the main areas you’ll need to know as a real estate professional in Dubai. These topics are taken directly from the DREI training course and reflect both the legal side of the business and everyday situations agents deal with. The test focuses on practical understanding, so you’ll need to know how to apply these topics when working with clients or handling property transactions.

• Real estate laws and regulations in Dubai

• Roles and responsibilities of real estate agents

• Ethics and professional conduct

• Leasing and sales processes

• Property registration and ownership rules

• RERA’s role and duties

• Common legal terms and contract basics

• Rights and duties of buyers, sellers, tenants, and landlords

You don’t have to memorize every detail, but having a solid grasp of how these areas work in real-life scenarios is important for passing the exam.

Sample Questions and Practice Resources

While official practice tests aren’t always provided, many real estate training centers and online platforms offer sample questions that are similar in style and difficulty to the actual RERA exam. These can help you get used to the question format and identify areas where you need to study more. Look for RERA exam prep books, flashcards, and online practice quizzes. Some past test-takers also share their experiences and sample questions on real estate forums and blogs.

DREI Preparation Tools

The Dubai Real Estate Institute (DREI) provides all the essential materials during the course, including slides, handouts, and case studies. These are the best resources to use when studying for the exam, as the test is based directly on this content. DREI also sometimes offers revision sessions or mock tests as part of the course, especially for in-person programs. If you’re taking the course online, make sure to download and review all the provided materials carefully.

After the Exam: Getting Your RERA Card

Passing the RERA exam is an important step, but you’re not fully licensed yet. Once you’ve passed, the next part of the process is applying for your RERA card—a formal ID that shows you're a certified real estate professional in Dubai. This card is issued by the Dubai Land Department (DLD) and must be renewed every year. Here’s what happens after the exam.

Receiving Your Results

After taking the exam, you’ll usually get your results within a few days. In some cases, results may be available even on the same day, especially if the test was done digitally. If you pass, you’ll receive a certificate confirming your successful completion of the course and exam. This certificate is needed for the next step, which is applying for your official RERA ID card.

Application for the RERA Card

Once you have your passing certificate, you can apply for your RERA card through the Trakheesi system—an online platform run by the DLD. You’ll need to upload some documents, including:

• A copy of your Emirates ID and residence visa

• A passport-sized photo

• Your RERA certificate

• A copy of your employment contract (if you're joining a brokerage)

After submitting everything, the DLD will review your application. Once approved, your RERA card will be issued, and you’ll officially be licensed to work as a broker in Dubai.

Renewals and Continuing Education

The RERA card is valid for one year. To keep your license active, you’ll need to renew it annually. This includes retaking the DREI training course and passing the RERA exam again. Renewal is required even if you stay with the same brokerage, and it’s your responsibility to make sure your card doesn’t expire. Some years, the renewal process may include updates on new regulations or changes in real estate practices, so staying current is important.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Preparing for the RERA exam and getting certified isn’t always smooth sailing. Many applicants face similar challenges during the process—especially if they’re new to the real estate industry or not familiar with Dubai’s legal system. The good news is, most of these issues can be managed with the right approach and a little planning.

Language or Terminology Issues

For some people, the biggest challenge is understanding the legal terms or real estate-specific language used in the course and exam. If English or Arabic isn’t your first language, this can feel overwhelming at first. One way to make it easier is to review a glossary of common real estate terms ahead of time. 

Most training centers provide these during the course. You can also use flashcards or online tools to practice unfamiliar words. Don’t hesitate to ask instructors to explain concepts in simpler terms—this is common and expected.

Managing the Study Load

The course covers a lot of information in just a few days, and keeping up can be tough—especially if you're working or managing other responsibilities at the same time. To stay on track, try reviewing your notes each day instead of cramming everything at the end. Focus on understanding the main ideas rather than memorizing every detail. Breaking the material into small sections and setting aside a little time each day to study can help you absorb the content more easily.

Reattempting the Exam After Failing

If you don’t pass the RERA exam the first time, don’t worry—it’s not uncommon. You can retake the test after a short waiting period, but it’s a good idea to review your weak areas before trying again. Go back through the training material, ask for extra support from your course provider if available, and consider using practice questions to test your knowledge. Failing once doesn’t mean you can’t succeed—it just means you need a bit more preparation.

FAQs

If you’re planning to work in real estate in Dubai, you probably have questions about licensing, costs, and working independently. Here are some of the most common queries answered simply and clearly.

1. How much does it cost to get a RERA license in Dubai?

The total cost for obtaining a RERA license as an individual agent in Dubai typically ranges between AED 10,000 and AED 15,000. This includes the RERA exam fees (AED 700–1,200), license registration with the Dubai Land Department (DLD) (AED 5,000–10,000), and the broker ID card issuance fee (AED 1,000).

2. What is the cost of setting up a real estate business in Dubai?

Starting a real estate company in Dubai typically costs between AED 21,000 and AED 45,000. This estimate includes expenses for business licenses, office space, employee visas, and various administrative fees required to legally operate in the market.

3. Is it possible to work as an independent real estate agent in Dubai?

Yes, you can work independently as a real estate agent in Dubai by obtaining a freelance permit. This permit allows you to operate without being tied to a specific agency. You can apply for it through approved freelance platforms in Dubai or with the help of a business setup consultant.

4. How much can a landlord increase rent in Dubai under RERA rules?

RERA allows rent increases in Dubai based on how much lower your current rent is compared to the average market rate. If your rent is less than 10% below the market rate, no increase is allowed. If it’s 11–20% lower, the rent can go up by up to 5%. If it’s 21–30% lower, the increase can be up to 10%. For rents that are 31–40% below market value, the cap is 15%. If your rent is more than 40% below, landlords can raise it by up to 20%.

Conclusion

Getting your RERA certification is more than just passing a test—it’s your entry into a competitive and fast-moving real estate market. By understanding the steps clearly, preparing well, and keeping up with annual renewals, you’ll stay compliant and ready to build a successful career in Dubai’s property sector.

And when you're ready to put your license to use, Kredium is here to help. Our experienced team can guide you through market opportunities and give you access to a wide selection of properties across Dubai. Explore our listings or connect with a Kredium real estate agent to get started: Visit Kredium Properties and take the next step in your real estate journey.

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