Female share of Dubai property brokers hits record high as more women enter real estate sector
Linda Muldoon, owner of Urban Nest, a brokerage founded as an all-women company, said a new generation of women are entering the sector with a strong focus on career progression, financial independence and wealth creation.Women are accounting for a record share of new real estate broker registrations in Dubai, signalling a gradual but notable shift in one of the emirate’s most competitive industries.
Analysis by BrokerageFinder of Dubai Land Department (DLD) data shows that women represented more than 40 per cent of new broker registrations during both the first and second quarters of 2026 – the highest proportion recorded since data collection began in 2007.
According to the research, female registrations accounted for 40.1 per cent in the second quarter of 2026. Historically, women have represented around 35 per cent of new broker registrations, making the latest figures a significant milestone for the sector.
The increase builds on momentum seen over recent years. In 2025, women accounted for an average of 36.3 per cent of all new broker registrations. So far in 2026, that figure has risen to 40.1 per cent, representing an 11 per cent increase year-on-year.
While the rise may appear modest at first glance, industry leaders say it reflects broader changes in both the real estate sector and the wider workforce.
“It is always encouraging to see greater diversity in a sector that serves such a diverse client base,” said Matt Whitmore, CEO of BrokerageFinder.
“Real estate is not a discriminatory profession by nature. Success comes down to dedication, hard work, consistency and the ability to build strong, healthy relationships with clients.
“With gender equality continuing to be an important global conversation, this is an exciting and positive indicator for Dubai’s real estate industry. It reflects the growing appeal of the sector to women and the wider shift towards a more balanced, representative and merit-led market.”
The findings come as Dubai’s property market continues to attract new entrants, driven by strong transaction volumes, population growth and sustained international demand for residential and commercial real estate.
Greater flexibility
Industry veterans say the role of women within the sector has evolved considerably over the past two decades.
Linda Muldoon, owner of Urban Nest, a brokerage founded as an all-women company, said real estate has historically appealed to women because it offered greater flexibility than many traditional professions.
“Today, however, the industry has become increasingly professionalised and competitive, requiring the same level of commitment regardless of gender,” she said.
“At the same time, we’re seeing a new generation of women entering the sector with a strong focus on career progression, financial independence and wealth creation.”
The trend reflects wider shifts in workplace expectations, where increasing numbers of women are pursuing careers that offer entrepreneurial opportunities and performance-based rewards.
Changing workforce dynamics
Brokerages themselves are also adapting to changing workforce dynamics.
Louise Heatley, CEO of Exclusive Links, said different professionals are naturally attracted to different brokerage cultures.
While some agents prefer highly competitive corporate environments, others are drawn to businesses that place greater emphasis on collaboration, mentoring and personal development.
She noted that such environments appeal to both male and female agents who value a more supportive culture and a relationship-driven approach to business.
Heatley added that the same principles often resonate with clients, many of whom respond positively to advisers who focus on trust, understanding customer needs and building long-term relationships rather than simply completing transactions.
As Dubai’s real estate industry matures, the growing participation of women could help reshape perceptions of a profession that has traditionally been viewed as male dominated in many markets around the world.
Challenges
Francesca Alexandra, Senior Director at Dubai Sotheby’s International Realty, said: “Like many women in traditionally male dominated industries, there have been many occasions where I have had to work harder to establish credibility early in my career.”
But rather than viewing challenges as obstacles, she treated them as opportunities to demonstrate her capabilities.
“The industry has evolved significantly, and I am encouraged by the growing number of talented women who are shaping its future at every level.”
