Are you planning to start a service-oriented business in Dubai? Let’s walk you through everything you need to know! A professional license is for businesses that provide services directly to clients - like consulting, engineering, IT, or accounting. Unlike commercial licenses, it doesn’t permit the sale of goods. It’s tailored for skilled professionals offering specialized services.
In this article, you’ll learn all about how to get a professional license in Dubai, the essential requirements to qualify, and a clear breakdown of the license cost involved. Whether you're just starting or expanding your service-based business, this guide will walk you through each step to set up smoothly. Ready to get started?
Who Issues the Professional License?
The Department of Economic Development (DED) is the official issuer of professional licenses in Dubai. Here’s the cool part: this license isn’t granted to just anyone! DED carefully considers your educational qualifications and expertise, making sure you’re all set to provide top-notch service in your field. Sounds impressive, right?
100% Ownership for Professionals:
Yes, with a professional license, you enjoy 100% ownership of your business in Dubai. This means no partnership shares—your hard work is all yours! Full control over your services and growth sounds empowering, doesn’t it?
Why a Local Service Agent Is Required Even with 100% Ownership:
You’ll need a local service agent to handle government-related formalities. But don’t worry, they’re only there to assist with legal steps and won’t interfere in your business operations. The agent charges a fixed annual fee and makes sure your business complies with the local regulations.
Allowed Activities Under Professional License
Licenses Here’s a list of activities covered under the professional license. You can choose from various fields, each designed to support service-based businesses. Let’s explore!
Engineering Services:
These services include civil, mechanical, electrical, and architectural engineering, among others. Dubai’s booming infrastructure means high demand for professional engineering services.
Medical Services:
From medical practices to healthcare consulting and medical research, these services are essential to meet Dubai’s healthcare needs.
IT Consulting:
IT services like software development, cybersecurity consulting, and tech support are covered here. Technology is evolving fast, and there’s high demand for IT expertise!
Legal Services:
Legal consultancy, dispute resolution, and contract review services all fall under this category, offering critical support to Dubai’s legal landscape.
Accounting and Auditing:
This includes bookkeeping, tax consulting, and audit services - key services to help businesses keep their finances in check.
Architectural Design Services:
These cover building design, urban planning, and site evaluation, perfect for professionals who bring ideas to life in Dubai’s skyline.
Graphic & Web Design Services:
Services include graphic design, website design, and branding - ideal for creative professionals who enhance brand identity.
Financial Consulting:
This includes financial planning, wealth management, and investment advising services, vital for businesses to manage their finances wisely.
Management Consulting:
Services like organizational restructuring, process improvement, and performance analysis are in demand for companies to thrive.
Business Consulting:
This covers services like market research, business strategy, and innovation planning, all designed to help businesses grow.
Architectural & Interior Design:
Services here include space planning, interior decoration, and concept design to bring aesthetic appeal to commercial and residential spaces.
Fashion Design and Consulting:
This covers brand consulting, apparel design, and trend forecasting, catering to Dubai’s vibrant fashion scene.
Educational Services:
Services such as tutoring, coaching, and educational consulting are essential for those shaping the next generation.
Beauty and Wellness Services:
These include wellness consulting, spa management, and beauty training, perfect for professionals in Dubai’s growing wellness industry.
Still Unsure Which Activity Fits Your Skills? Not to worry! Our team at CSPzone is here to guide you in selecting the perfect activity for your professional license. Just reach out, and we’ll make the process a breeze!
How to Obtain a Professional License in Dubai?
Getting your license is straightforward! Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to go about it:
1. Choose Your Business Activity:
Finalize which service activity your business will provide. From consulting to design, your choice should match your expertise.
2. Register Your Trade Name:
Pick a unique name that represents your brand and meets DED’s guidelines. This is your business’s identity, so make it memorable!
3. Obtain Initial Approval:
Submit your application to the DED. This initial approval confirms that your business plan aligns with Dubai’s regulations.
4. Prepare a Memorandum of Association (MoA):
This document outlines your business structure and scope. It’s an essential part of setting up your license.
5. Secure an Office Lease Agreement:
Leasing an office is required, with a 5% market fee on your lease amount. This step makes your business presence official!
6. External Approvals:
Some activities require additional permissions, like from Dubai Municipality. We’ll help you navigate any extra steps.
7. Pay the Fees:
After completing all steps, submit the required fees to finalize your license. Your professional license will be issued, and your business can officially begin!
Once your business is registered, there’s one more mandatory step: registering for corporate tax within three months.
Need help with this? CSPzone can handle it for you - just let us know!
How Much Does a Professional License Cost?
The cost of a professional license in Dubai is about AED 12,000 (around $3,200). This is just the license cost; additional expenses like agent fees, trade name fees, market fees (5% of tenancy), and office lease costs apply. It’s an investment worth making for your business success in Dubai!
Not Sure Where to Begin?
Let CSPzone Guide You! If any part of the licensing process feels confusing, you’re not alone! Reach out to our expert team at CSPzone, and we’ll handle everything for you, from selecting your business activity to getting approvals. Let’s bring your business dreams to life in Dubai!
