Professional License Activities in Dubai: A Guide to Business Setup 

Dubai is a thriving hub for professionals across diverse industries, making it one of the top destinations for service-based businesses. If you’re looking to establish your business in Dubai, understanding professional license activities in Dubai is essential. This type of license is required for companies offering specialized services based on intellectual or technical expertise, such as consulting, healthcare, IT services, and legal advisory. 

With Dubai’s business-friendly environment, obtaining a professional license not only ensures legal compliance but also opens doors to endless opportunities. In this guide, we’ll cover the key aspects of professional license activities in Dubai, including the setup process, costs, and how to get started. 

 

What Are Professional License Activities in Dubai? 

A professional license in Dubai allows businesses and individuals to offer service-based activities. Unlike commercial licenses, which cover trading activities, professional license activities in Dubai are tailored for businesses that provide services such as consultancy, marketing, legal services, healthcare, IT solutions, and more. 

This license is ideal for professionals who want to operate either as a sole proprietor or as part of a civil company. Whether you’re working independently or with partners, a professional license offers flexibility in how you structure your business. 

Examples of Professional License Activities in Dubai 

Dubai supports a wide range of professional services, with the most common activities including: 

• Consultancy Services: Management, marketing, and IT consulting are popular in Dubai, with many professionals offering specialized advice to businesses. 
• Healthcare Services: Doctors, clinics, and healthcare consultants must secure a professional license to operate legally. 
• Legal Services: Lawyers and legal consultants require a professional license to offer legal advisory services. 
• IT Solutions: Businesses offering IT consulting, software development, and network security solutions need this license to operate. 
• Education and Training: Professionals offering tutoring, coaching, or corporate training services also fall under professional license activities in Dubai. 

Each of these activities involves providing expert knowledge or specialized skills, making the professional license a must-have for service providers. 

 

How to Apply for Professional License Activities in Dubai 

Setting up a business in Dubai requires following a structured process, but with the right guidance, obtaining a professional license can be straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you apply for professional license activities in Dubai.

 

1. Choose Your Professional Activity 

The first step is to identify the service you will offer. Dubai’s Department of Economic Development (DED) provides a comprehensive list of activities that qualify for a professional license. You need to select the one that aligns with your business expertise. 

2. Reserve a Trade Name 

Once you’ve decided on your professional activity, the next step is to reserve a trade name. The trade name must comply with UAE regulations, avoiding terms that are offensive or religiously sensitive. The name must also reflect the nature of your professional activity. 

3. Local Service Agent (LSA) Agreement 

For expatriates, Dubai requires the appointment of a local service agent (LSA) to assist with government-related administrative tasks. The LSA doesn’t own any share of the business but helps facilitate interactions with local authorities. 

4. Secure an Office Space 

To obtain your professional license, you must lease an office space in Dubai. This can be a physical office or a shared workspace, depending on your business needs. You will need to present a tenancy contract (Ejari) as part of the application process. 

5. Submit Documents and Pay Fees 

Once all the requirements are in place, you need to submit the necessary documents, including: 

• A completed application form 
• Passport and visa copies 
• Proof of qualifications 
• Local service agent agreement (for expats) 
• Office lease agreement (Ejari) 

After submitting the documents, you’ll need to pay the necessary fees for processing your license. 

6. Receive Your Professional License 

Once your application is reviewed and approved, you’ll be issued a professional license, allowing you to legally engage in your chosen professional license activities in Dubai. 

 

Benefits of Engaging in Professional License Activities in Dubai 

Obtaining a professional license comes with numerous benefits, particularly for professionals looking to establish themselves in Dubai’s growing market. 

Full Ownership for Expats 

One of the significant advantages of professional license activities in Dubai is that expatriates can own 100% of their business. Unlike commercial licenses, which often require a local sponsor to hold a majority share, a professional license allows full ownership, giving you complete control over your company. This is particularly beneficial for consultants, freelancers, and service-based businesses. 

Access to Dubai’s Booming Market 

Dubai is a business hub that attracts clients from across the globe. Engaging in professional license activities in Dubai gives you access to a wide range of potential clients in sectors such as real estate, technology, healthcare, and finance. With a strategic location and a growing economy, Dubai offers numerous opportunities for service providers to thrive. 

Lower Setup and Operating Costs 

Compared to other types of licenses, professional licenses tend to have lower setup and operating costs. This makes it an attractive option for entrepreneurs and startups who want to minimize initial expenses while still gaining access to Dubai’s competitive market. 

 

Cost of Professional License Activities in Dubai

 

The cost of securing a professional license depends on several factors, including the business activity, location, and number of employees or visas required. Typically, the total cost for professional license activities in Dubai can range from AED 10,000 to AED 15,000, which includes: 

• License application and processing fees
• Trade name reservation
• Local service agent fees (for expats)
• Office lease expenses

Additional costs may arise if you are hiring employees or applying for multiple visas. Free Zones may offer more affordable packages for businesses with limited operational needs, but they also come with certain restrictions on where and how you can operate within Dubai. 

 

Types of Professional License Activities in Dubai 

Consultancy Services 

Consultants offering management, financial, marketing, or IT advisory services must obtain a professional license to operate legally. Consulting is one of the most in-demand professional license activities in Dubai, especially with the city’s strong business landscape. 

IT Solutions 

As Dubai continues to invest in technology and innovation, there is a growing demand for IT services. Whether you specialize in software development, cybersecurity, or IT consulting, a professional license is essential for operating in this sector. 

Healthcare Services 

Healthcare professionals, including doctors, dentists, therapists, and medical consultants, need a professional license to offer their services in Dubai. The healthcare industry in Dubai is tightly regulated, and proper licensing ensures compliance with local laws and standards. 

Legal and Advisory Services 

Lawyers and legal consultants must obtain a professional license to offer legal advisory services. Dubai’s legal framework supports both local and international businesses, making legal advisory services a key area for professionals. 

Marketing and Branding Agencies 

Agencies providing marketing, branding, PR, and advertising services are required to obtain a professional license. With Dubai’s booming commercial landscape, these services are in high demand across industries. 

 

Renewing Your Professional License in Dubai 

Once you’ve obtained your professional license, it will need to be renewed annually. The renewal process is relatively straightforward, but it requires submitting updated documents and paying renewal fees. It’s crucial to renew your license on time to avoid penalties or disruptions to your business operations. 

Conclusion 

Engaging in professional license activities in Dubai is a great way to tap into a booming market and establish a successful service-based business. Whether you’re a consultant, healthcare provider, or IT professional, securing the right license is essential for legal compliance and long-term growth. With the right guidance and support, the process of obtaining your professional license can be smooth, allowing you to focus on building and growing your business in one of the world’s most dynamic cities

Ready to get started? Contact us today to streamline your licensing process and set your business up for success in Dubai.

 

Frequently Asked Questions 

What activities require a professional license in Dubai? 

Service-based activities such as consultancy, IT services, healthcare, legal advisory, and marketing require a professional license in Dubai. 

Can expats fully own a professional business in Dubai? 

Yes, expatriates can own 100% of their business with a professional license, but they must appoint a local service agent to handle administrative matters. 

How much does it cost to obtain a professional license in Dubai? 

The cost typically ranges between AED 10,000 and AED 15,000, depending on the business activity, location, and office space requirements. 

What Documents Do You Need to Apply for a Professional License? 

To apply for a professional license, you’ll need: 

• A completed application form 
• Copies of your passport and visa 
• Proof of qualifications 
• Local service agent agreement (if you're an expat) 
• Office lease agreement (Ejari) 

Having these documents ready will help make the process easier! 

Can I operate anywhere in Dubai with a professional license? 

If your business is set up on the mainland, you can operate anywhere in Dubai and across the UAE. Free Zone licenses may have restrictions on operating outside the zone unless special agreements are made.