RERA, an acronym for the Real Estate Regulatory Authority, is a government entity that regulates Bahrain’s real estate industry. It is mandatory for all real estate professionals, including brokers, sales agents, property managers, valuers, and developers, to obtain a license from RERA before operating in the country.
If you want to enter the real estate industry in Bahrain, it is essential to understand the licensing requirements and procedures set by RERA.
Here are some key points to keep in mind when applying for a RERA license in Bahrain:
- All real estate professionals must be RERA licensed before operating in Bahrain.
- The licensing process varies depending on the profession, with different requirements and fees for brokers, developers, and sales agents.
- RERA provides online license issuance, renewal, and payment services, making the process more convenient and accessible for real estate professionals.
RERA License for Real Estate Brokers
Real estate brokers in Bahrain must obtain a license from RERA to operate lawfully. The permit is required for both individuals and companies engaged in brokerage activities. Here are some crucial points to keep in mind when applying for a RERA license:
- Required Documents: Brokers must provide certain documents when applying for a RERA license. The documents require the applicant’s CPR card, a copy of the applicant’s educational certificates, and a copy of the applicant’s work experience certificates.
- License Applications: Brokers can apply for a RERA license as an individual or a company. Applicants will need to provide the required documents and pay the necessary fees.
- Fee Payments: The fees for a RERA license vary according to the license type. Brokers can pay the costs online through the RERA website.
- Application Status Inquiries: Brokers can check the status of their license application online through the RERA website. This allows them to track the progress of their application and see if any additional information is required.
- License Renewals: RERA licenses must be renewed annually. Brokers and agents can continue them through the RERA website. They will need to provide the required documents and pay the necessary fees.
- Accredited Licenses: RERA maintains a list of certified licenses on its website. Brokers can check this list to ensure that RERA accredits the permit they are applying for.
- RERA Lists: RERA also maintains lists of licensed real estate brokers on its website. Consumers can use these lists to verify that a broker is licensed to operate in Bahrain.
- Electronic Transformation: RERA is committed to electronic transformation and has introduced several services to make it easier for brokers to apply for and manage their licenses. These services include the eKey and Sijilat.
RERA License for Developers
Developers in Bahrain must obtain a license from the Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA) before proceeding with any off-plan sales project or advertising units for sale off-plan. Here are some key points to keep in mind regarding the RERA license for developers:
- Licenses will be issued by the Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA).
- The license categories include a developer license, a development license for an off-plan sale project, and a license to advertise off-plan units.
- Property developers must register with RERA and obtain a Developer License if they are involved in selling off-plan real estate units to the public.
- The survey and land registration bureau will issue a certificate of ownership for the land to the developer, which must be submitted to RERA along with the application for the developer license.
- The guidelines for obtaining a developer license are available on the National Portal and the Real Estate Licensing System.
- During the transition period, developers with a license from the Information and eGovernment Authority will get a temporary permit by RERA.
- The RERA license holders must adhere to the regulations and international real estate standards by law.
- If a developer fails to obtain a license before proceeding with any off-plan sales project or advertising units for sale off-plan, they may face penalties.
Overall, obtaining a RERA license is crucial for developers in Bahrain’s real estate sector. It ensures that they follow the guidelines and regulations set by the government and promote fair and effective rules in the real estate market.
RERA License for Bahrain Real Estate Agents
Bahrain’s Real estate agents must obtain a RERA license to operate legally. The Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA) licenses real estate professionals, including brokers and sales agents.
Requirements for RERA License
To obtain a RERA license, real estate agents must submit relevant documents and pay the RERA license fee to get a RERA license. The requirements vary depending on the type of profession. The tables below will guide you through the RERA certification requirements as per the profession types:
License for Real Estate Brokers in Bahrain
Type of Service | Requirements |
Real Estate Brokerage Office | A photocopy of the Memorandum of Association and the Commercial Registration Certificate. |
Real Estate Broker | A photocopy of the Memorandum of Association and the Commercial Registration Certificate. |
Real Estate Broker’s Representative | A photocopy of the Memorandum of Association and the Commercial Registration Certificate. |
License for Real Estate Sales Agents in Bahrain
Type of Service | Requirements |
Real Estate Sales Agent | A photocopy of the Memorandum of Association and the Commercial Registration Certificate. |
Payment and Renewal
RERA licensing services are available online through the National Portal, Bahrain.bh. Real estate professionals can issue and pay their licenses online, enquire about the status of their applications, renew their expired licenses, and view all accredited licenses. The system is user-friendly and offers a single sign-on for all eServices logins.
Digital Transformation
In cooperation with the iGA, RERA launched a new Real Estate Licensing System and associated services in 2020. The new system integrates with the Population Registry System and the National Payment Aggregator, making the process more efficient and convenient for real estate professionals.
Board of Directors
Sheikh Mohammed bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, CEO of RERA, heads RERA. The Board of Directors includes representatives from various government entities.
Updated RERA Lists
RERA regularly updates its lists of licensed real estate professionals and brokerage offices. The lists are available under the Government Services Catalog on the National Portal, Bahrain.bh.
Government Information
The National Portal, Bahrain.bh, provides information about the Kingdom of Bahrain, government services, and eParticipation. The Web Content Viewer and Site Manager manage the site, with Content Spot Dialog and Edit Shared Settings Mode available for efficient content management.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the requirements for obtaining a RERA license in Bahrain?
An individual or company must meet specific requirements to obtain a RERA license in Bahrain. These requirements include completing the necessary training and education, passing the required exams, and meeting particular financial and legal obligations. The individual or company must also apply and pay the required fees.
- Complete the necessary training and education.
- Pass the required exams.
- Meet specific financial and legal obligations.
- Apply and pay the necessary fees.
How do I renew my RERA license in Bahrain?
To renew a RERA license in Bahrain, an individual or company must submit a renewal application and pay the necessary fees. It is important to note that permits must be renewed before they expire, and there is no grace period.
- Submit a renewal application.
- Pay the necessary fees.
What is the process for real estate agents to acquire CPD certificates in Bahrain?
Real estate agents in Bahrain must complete Continuing Professional Development (CPD) courses to maintain their licenses. Acquiring CPD certificates involves completing the required classes and exams and submitting proof of completion to RERA.
- Complete the required courses and exams.
- Submit proof of completion to RERA.
What career opportunities are available with RERA Bahrain?
RERA Bahrain offers a range of career opportunities for those interested in real estate industry careers. These opportunities include administration, finance, legal, and regulatory affairs positions.
- Positions in administration, finance, legal, and regulatory affairs
How can I access the official RERA Bahrain website for information and services?
To access the official RERA Bahrain website, individuals can visit the National Portal at Bahrain.bh. The website provides information on RERA services, regulations, and licensing requirements.
- Visit the National Portal at Bahrain.bh
What are the differences between RERA regulations in Bahrain, Dubai, and India?
While RERA regulations in Bahrain, Dubai, and India are similar, there are also notable differences. These differences include variations in licensing requirements, penalties for non-compliance, and the scope of regulatory authority.
- Variations in licensing requirements
- Penalties for non-compliance
- Scope of regulatory authority