The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a thriving business hub that offers countless opportunities for professionals looking to start their own business. With a high demand for specialized services, obtaining a professional license in UAE is the ideal way for skilled professionals to legally operate and grow their business.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
✔ What is a professional license in UAE?
✔ Who needs a professional license?
✔ Benefits of a professional license
✔ How to apply for a professional license
✔ Cost and required documents
If you’re a consultant, engineer, artist, healthcare professional, or IT specialist, this article will help you understand how to get started with your professional business in the UAE.
What is a Professional License in UAE?
A professional license is a business permit issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED) that allows individuals and companies to provide specialized services in the UAE. Unlike commercial and industrial licenses, which focus on trading and manufacturing, a professional license is for skilled service providers such as consultants, IT specialists, doctors, and artists.
With a professional license in UAE, you can:
✅ Offer specialized services legally
✅ Own 100% of your business as a foreign investor
✅ Provide consultancy and professional expertise
✅ Operate as a sole proprietor or an LLC
💡 Who is eligible for a professional license?
To qualify, you must hold a professional degree, provide proof of experience, and meet industry-specific qualifications.
For example:
✔ A lawyer needs a law degree and legal experience
✔ A consultant must have industry expertise
✔ A doctor or healthcare provider must hold a valid medical certification
Who Needs a Professional License in UAE?
A professional license is required for individuals and businesses providing specialized services based on skills, experience, and expertise.
The following business activities require a professional license in the UAE:
✔ Business & Financial Services
🔹 Accounting & Auditing
🔹 Financial & Investment Advisory
🔹 Business Consultancy
🔹 Tax Consultancy
✔ IT & Technology
🔹 Software Development
🔹 IT Consultancy
🔹 Digital Marketing Services
🔹 Cybersecurity Services
✔ Healthcare & Wellness
🔹 Medical Practitioners
🔹 Physiotherapists
🔹 Nutritionists
🔹 Personal Trainers
✔ Education & Training
🔹 Private Tutors
🔹 Training Institutes
🔹 Coaching Services
✔ Media, Art & Entertainment
🔹 Photography & Videography
🔹 Graphic Design & Animation
🔹 Content Creation
🔹 Publishing & Editing
✔ Engineering & Architecture
🔹 Architectural Design
🔹 Civil & Structural Engineering
🔹 Interior Design
💡 If your profession falls under any of these categories, you must apply for a professional license in the UAE.
Benefits of a Professional License in UAE
A professional license offers several advantages for entrepreneurs and business owners:
1️⃣ 100% Foreign Ownership
Unlike other business licenses, a professional license in UAE allows full foreign ownership without requiring a local partner.
2️⃣ No Local Sponsor or Local Service Agent (LSA) Required
Previously, foreign professionals needed a local service agent (LSA) to operate in the UAE. However, recent reforms allow full ownership without an LSA, reducing costs and administrative hassle.
3️⃣ Low Setup & Operational Costs
A professional license has lower setup fees compared to commercial licenses. It also offers reduced administration costs since you don’t need to share profits with a local partner.
4️⃣ Wide Range of Business Activities
A professional license covers multiple industries, making it ideal for consultants, IT specialists, designers, educators, and healthcare professionals.
5️⃣ Ability to Sponsor Family & Employees
With a professional license, you can apply for UAE residence visas for yourself, your family, and your employees.
How to Get a Professional License in UAE
Follow these six simple steps to obtain your professional license in UAE:
Step 1: Partner with Dubai Business Service
The first step is to consult business setup experts like Dubai Business Service. Our team will guide you through the professional license application process and ensure compliance with UAE regulations.
Step 2: Select Your Business Activities
You must choose the right business activity for your professional license. There are over 2,000 activities approved by the DED. Our experts will help you select the best options based on your expertise.
Step 3: Choose a Business Structure
A professional license allows two main business structures:
✔ Sole Proprietorship – Best for individual professionals
✔ Limited Liability Company (LLC) – Best for partnerships
Step 4: Register a Business Name
Your business name must follow UAE naming guidelines, including:
✔ No offensive or religious terms
✔ Full name usage (no initials)
✔ Approval from the Registry Office
💡 Dubai Business Service will help you check availability and register your trade name.
Step 5: Submit Your License Application
Once your business name is approved, you must submit the following documents to the DED for initial approval:
✔ Completed license application form
✔ Passport copies of shareholders
✔ Business name approval certificate
✔ Memorandum of Association (MOA)
✔ Educational and professional qualifications
Step 6: Pay the Professional License Fee
After approval, you must pay the professional license fee to receive your official business license.
Once your professional license is issued, you can:
✅ Apply for a UAE residence visa
✅ Open a corporate bank account
✅ Legally start offering your services
Cost of a Professional License in UAE
The cost of a professional license in UAE varies based on business type, office location, and government fees.
💰 Estimated Costs:
✔ AED 10,000 – AED 50,000 (depending on business activities)
✔ Additional costs for visa applications, office space, and approvals
📞 Get an exact quote from Dubai Business Service for your professional license.
Required Documents for a Professional License
To apply for a professional license in UAE, you’ll need the following documents:
✔ Passport copies of shareholders
✔ Completed business license application
✔ Business name reservation certificate
✔ Initial approval from DED
✔ Educational and professional qualifications
✔ Memorandum of Association (MOA) (for LLCs)
✔ Approval from relevant industry authorities
Why Choose Dubai Business Service?
Applying for a professional license in UAE can be complex without expert guidance. Dubai Business Service simplifies the process by offering:
✅ End-to-End License Registration – From application to approval
✅ DED & Government Liaison – Handle all legal formalities
✅ Business Consultation – Choose the right business activities
✅ Transparent Pricing – No hidden fees or delays
📞 Get Started Today! Contact Dubai Business Service for a free consultation and expert assistance with your professional license in UAE. 🚀
