Dubai SME–DLD Pact Boosts Emirati Role in Real Estate

Dubai has taken a major step toward strengthening its entrepreneurial ecosystem, as the Mohammed Bin Rashid Establishment for Small and Medium Enterprises Development (Dubai SME) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Dubai Land Department (DLD).

The agreement aims to enhance collaboration between the two government entities and expand opportunities for Emirati-owned small and medium enterprises (SMEs) within Dubai’s fast-growing real estate sector.

Expanding Opportunities Across the Real Estate Value Chain

Under the partnership, Dubai SME members will gain improved access to real estate-related activities, including owners’ associations and operational services. The initiative will enable real estate companies to collaborate with SMEs in key areas such as design, contracting, consultancy, and property management.

This move is expected to strengthen SME participation across the entire value chain while opening new doors for local businesses to contribute to large-scale development projects.

Supporting Dubai’s Economic Vision D33

The MoU aligns with the ambitious Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), which seeks to double the emirate’s economy by 2033 and position Dubai as a leading global hub for multinational companies, SMEs, and innovation.

Dubai SME has set targets to launch 8,000 new businesses and expand its supported enterprises to 27,000 by 2033, up from 19,000 in 2024. The agreement also supports the Dubai Real Estate Strategy 2033, which focuses on increasing homeownership, boosting GDP contribution, and enhancing market transparency.

Leadership Highlights Strategic Importance

Ahmad Al Room Almheiri, Acting CEO of Dubai SME, said the partnership reflects Dubai’s commitment to embedding Emirati entrepreneurs within high-growth sectors like real estate. He emphasized that stronger collaboration will build confidence in government support and reinforce Dubai’s position as a global hub for entrepreneurship.

Meanwhile, Eng. Abdullah Ahmed Al Shehhi, CEO of the Real Estate Regulatory Agency at DLD, highlighted the importance of SMEs as key contributors to the sector. He noted that the agreement will provide a clear regulatory environment, enhance compliance, and support the development of national talent.

Focus on Training, Compliance, and Awareness

A key component of the agreement is improving regulatory awareness among SMEs. DLD will provide guidance on real estate laws and operational standards, supported by workshops and awareness programs to enhance professional knowledge.

Dubai SME will also promote DLD services, facilitate access for members, and organize training initiatives. In addition, structured matchmaking programs will connect SMEs with developers and key stakeholders, encouraging collaboration and business growth.

Strong Market Performance Reinforces Confidence

Dubai’s real estate sector continues to show exceptional growth. In 2025, the market recorded over 270,000 transactions worth more than AED 917 billion.

This momentum has continued into 2026, with the first quarter alone seeing approximately AED 252 billion in transactions across more than 60,000 deals. Total investments reached around AED 173 billion, reflecting strong confidence from both local and international investors.

A Model for Sustainable Economic Growth

Through strategic public-private collaboration and a focus on empowering SMEs, Dubai is reinforcing its model of inclusive and sustainable economic growth. The partnership between Dubai SME and DLD highlights the emirate’s commitment to innovation, transparency, and global competitiveness.