Tired of working for someone else? Got the expertise but not the platform? Dubai might just be the launchpad you’re looking for. From business and finance to IT and marketing, consultants in every field are tapping into Dubai’s booming market, and it’s easy to see why. The city isn’t just a skyline of opportunities; it’s a magnet for global talent and serious business.
Consultancy businesses are thriving here. As companies in the UAE continue to expand and evolve, there’s a rising need for specialised consultancy services to guide growth, streamline operations, and adapt to changing markets. This growing demand is one of the key reasons why many entrepreneurs and seasoned professionals are choosing Dubai as the base for their consultancy ventures.
However, to offer consultancy services legally in Dubai, you’ll need to get a consultancy license. This license allows you to operate your business, build your brand, and work with clients across the UAE.
If you’re ready to turn your knowledge into a business, here’s how to get one for your business.
What is a Consultancy License in Dubai?
A consultancy license in Dubai is a legal permit that allows individuals or companies to provide professional advice and services in a specific field of expertise. It is issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED) for mainland businesses, or by the relevant authority in a free zone. This license is essential for anyone who wants to operate as a consultant legally in the UAE.
What Activities Are Covered Under a Dubai Consultancy License?
Here’s a list of activities typically covered under a consultancy license in Dubai:
- Management Consultancy
- Human Resources (HR) Consultancy
- Information Technology (IT) Consultancy
- Financial Consultancy
- Marketing and Advertising Consultancy
- Legal Consultancy (may require special approvals)
- Project Management Consultancy
- Business Setup Consultancy
- Education and Training Consultancy
- Healthcare Consultancy
- Environmental Consultancy
- Engineering Consultancy (requires additional approvals)
- Media and Public Relations Consultancy
- Supply Chain and Logistics Consultancy
Who Should Consider Applying?
A consultancy license is a great choice for:
- Freelancers or solo consultants who want to work independently
- Experienced professionals or industry experts looking to monetize their knowledge
- Small to medium-sized firms that offer specialist consulting services
- International consultants or companies entering the UAE market
- Startups or entrepreneurs building service-based businesses
Documents Required to Obtain Consultancy License in Dubai, UAE
Here’s a list of common documents required to obtain a consultancy license in Dubai, UAE:
- Completed application form
- Copy of passport(s) of the owner(s) and partners
- Passport-sized photographs
- Proof of UAE residence visa (if applicable)
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from current sponsor (for residents on a visa)
- Attested educational certificates or professional qualifications relevant to the consultancy field
- Business plan outlining the consultancy services offered
- Memorandum of Association (MOA) or Local Service Agent agreement (depending on the business structure)
- Tenancy contract or Ejari (lease agreement) for the office space
- Initial approval from the Department of Economic Development (DED) or relevant free zone authority
- Payment receipts for licensing and registration fees
- Power of Attorney (if a representative is handling the process)
Note: Specific documents may vary based on the jurisdiction (mainland vs free zone) and type of consultancy business. It’s always best to check with the relevant authority or a business setup consultant at Shuraa UK.
How to Obtain a Consultancy License in Dubai, UAE?
Here’s how to obtain a consultancy license in Dubai with ease:
1. Define Your Business Activity
Decide on the specific consultancy services you wish to offer, such as management, IT, HR, legal, or marketing. This will determine the type of license you need.
2. Choose Your Business Jurisdiction
UK investors often prefer Free Zones due to 100% foreign ownership, no income tax, and ease of repatriating profits. However, Mainland setup is ideal if you wish to target UAE government projects or local clients directly. Consider your long-term market strategy before choosing.
3. Reserve a Trade Name
Choose a unique business name that complies with Dubai’s naming regulations—no offensive words or names identical to existing businesses. You will submit the name for approval through the Department of Economic Development (DED) for the mainland or the respective free zone authority.
4. Prepare and Submit Required Documents
Collect all required documents such as passports, visas, NOCs (if applicable), educational certificates, business plan, tenancy contract, and other paperwork.
Attestation of UK documents (if needed) must be done through the UAE Embassy in London and then MOFA in the UAE.
5. Secure Office Space
Dubai requires companies to have a physical office space. You must obtain a lease agreement, known as Ejari, for an office that meets the minimum size and location criteria set by the licensing authority.
6. Pay Fees and Obtain Consultancy License
Once all approvals and documents are in place, pay the license and registration fees. The fees vary depending on the jurisdiction and type of consultancy. After payment, you will receive your official consultancy license in Dubai, allowing you to legally operate.
7. Apply for Residency Visa
If you plan to live in the UAE or work from Dubai frequently, apply for an investor or partner visa. This typically involves:
- Entry permit
- Medical fitness test
- Emirates ID registration
- Residency visa stamping in your passport
With your license, you can also sponsor family members or staff for visas.
8. Open a Corporate Bank Account
Finally, open a business bank account with a UAE bank to manage your finances professionally. Banks require your trade license and company documents, so having your license ready is essential for this step.
Note: You don’t have to be in Dubai during the full setup, Shuraa UK can handle your license remotely.
What is the Consultancy License Cost in Dubai?
The mainland consultancy license cost in Dubai typically starts at around AED 15,000, but the overall cost can go up to AED 25,000 or more once you factor in the various fees such as visa, office rent (Ejari), and other administrative charges.
For a Free Zone setup, consultancy license packages are quite affordable, especially for solo consultants or small teams. The base license cost can be as low as AED 8,000 in some free zones.
Additional costs may include visa fees (ranging from AED 3,000 to AED 7,000 per visa), Emirates ID processing, medical testing, and any document attestation required if you’re submitting educational or professional certificates from the UK.
It’s also worth noting that working with a business setup consultancy like Shuraa UK can help you get tailored packages that bundle multiple services, license issuance, visa processing, office lease, and bank account setup, often at discounted rates.
How Shuraa UK Can Help?
If you’ve got the skills, experience, and drive to run a consultancy, there’s no better place to launch than Dubai. From flexible free zone options to the freedom of a mainland setup, the city gives consultants all the tools to thrive. And the best part? You don’t have to figure it all out on your own. At Shuraa UK, we make the entire process, from paperwork to license to visa, as smooth as possible. Whether you’re setting up solo or starting a full-fledged firm, we’ll tailor a plan that fits your goals. Reach out for a free consultation and let’s turn your consultancy dream into reality, right here in Dubai.
