What is the difference between a real estate broker and a real estate agent?

Real estate can be a complex world, with lots of phrases and jargon that you might not be familiar with. For example, when searching for a property in Dubai, you may hear the phrases real estate agent and real estate broker, and wonder what the difference is. Sometimes people use these titles interchangeably, but there are some important differences that you should know.

The Dubai Land Department (DLD) regulates the real estate industry in Dubai, and all real estate professionals (both agents and brokers) must be licensed by the DLD in order to operate legally. To obtain a license, real estate professionals must take an accredited real estate course and pass an exam. Both real estate agents and real estate brokers can represent you in the process of buying, selling or renting a property in Dubai. This means that they can accompany you on property viewings, list a home on the market and draft real estate contracts.

So what is the difference between a real estate agent and a real estate broker? 

Real Estate Agent

A real estate agent in Dubai is a licensed professional who works directly for a broker and can only practice under their supervision. A real estate agent in Dubai cannot work independently or establish a real estate brokerage, they must work for a licensed broker. Real estate agents have passed the DLD real estate licensing exam and can help clients to buy, sell or rent properties. They are normally paid a commission based on the sale or rental price of a property. A share of this commission will typically be paid to the real estate broker for providing office space, marketing and administrative support etc. 
 

Real Estate Broker

A real estate broker in Dubai is a more experienced and higher-level professional who has typically worked as a real estate agent for several years. To become a broker, they must pass additional exams and meet the experience and education requirements set by the DLD. Brokers in Dubai can legally establish a real estate company, employ and supervise other real estate agents, and handle more complex real estate transactions. 

Real estate brokers take legal responsibility for real estate transactions completed by themselves and any real estate agents that they employ.  Additionally, brokers oversee the training and education of agents to enhance and maintain service standards and professionalism.

Both Play A Key Role

In Dubai, both real estate agents and brokers play important roles in the real estate industry. Agents help clients with basic real estate transactions, while brokers have the knowledge and expertise to handle more complex situations and provide a higher level of service to clients. With its rapidly developing real estate market, Dubai offers many opportunities for both agents and brokers to grow their careers and help clients achieve their real estate goals.

Are you looking to start your career in Dubai real estate? Check out our careers section.