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A Guide to Obtaining a Professional License in Dubai, UAE

The United Arab Emirates (UAE)’s growing city Dubai is becoming a popular place to visit for both businesspeople and professionals. If you’re planning to launch your business, getting a professional license in Dubai is a crucial step. This guide will walk you through the process of acquiring a professional license in Dubai, ensuring a smooth and efficient setup for your venture.

Professional License in Dubai: Overview, Types, Benefits, and Steps

Understanding Professional License in Dubai

A Professional license Dubai are necessary for individuals and businesses which provide professional services, consultancy, and artwork. This license is essential for various professions, including legal, accounting, medical, and engineering services. It signifies that you meet the necessary qualifications and standards required by the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED) and allows you to operate legally within the emirate. 

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Types of Professional Licenses in Dubai

Professional License in Dubai

There are several types of Dubai business licenses issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED). The primary types include –

  • Commercial License: For trading activities.
  • Professional License: For service-oriented businesses.
  • Industrial License: For manufacturing activities.
  • Tourism License: For tourism-related businesses.

Professional License Activities in Dubai

There are many different types of activities qualifies for a professional license Dubai, which includes –

  • Accountancy and financial advisory
  • Legal consultancy
  • IT services and web design
  • Medical and healthcare services
  • Educational services
  • Advertising and media services
  • Engineering and architectural consultancy
  • Artisanal crafts and beauty services

These activities serve both domestic and foreign clients which represents Dubai’s varied professional environment.

Benefits of Getting a Professional License Dubai

Obtaining a professional license in Dubai opens the door to numerous opportunities for entrepreneurs and business owners. Here are some key benefits that make this license an attractive option

1. 100% Ownership – Without the need for a local partner, foreign investors can entirely own their companies and give them complete independence and operational control.

2. Low Operational Costs – Professional licenses typically come with lower setup and renewal fees compared to other license types, making them a cost-effective choice for startups and small businesses.

3. Wide Range of Activities – The license allows for multiple business activities under one license, providing the flexibility to diversify services and adapt to market demands.

4. Access to Corporate Banking – License holders can open corporate bank accounts, facilitating efficient financial management and enabling access to business loans.

5. Visa Eligibility – A professional license Dubai simplifies the process of obtaining employee visas and permits, making it easier to hire and manage a skilled workforce.

These advantages position a professional license as a strategic asset for anyone looking to thrive in Dubai’s dynamic business landscape.

Steps to Obtain a Professional License in Dubai

1. Choose a Business Activity

Choosing the right business activity you want to take on is the first step. Dubai offers a wide range of professional licenses catering to various industries, including consulting, engineering, architecture, IT services, and more. Then, identify the license which most closely fits your business objectives by doing some research on the different possibilities.

2. Appoint a Local Service Agent

As per Dubai’s regulations, foreign investors are required to appoint a local service agent. This person or business will represent you in the UAE, helping with paperwork and legal matters. Both UAE citizens and UAE-registered businesses are eligible to be the local service agent.

3. Seek Initial Approval from DED

After choosing your business activity and appointing a local service agent, you must apply for the Department of Economic Development’s (DED) first approval. Submit the Dubai professional license application with the required paperwork to the DED for review, including copies of your passport, your business plan, and evidence of the funds.

4. Reserve a Trade Name

After obtaining initial approval, you can proceed to reserve a trade name for your business. The trade name must be original and adhere to Dubai’s naming guidelines. Additionally, confirm that the chosen name is available by conducting a thorough search.

5. Make a Memorandum of Association

A legal document that describes a company’s goals, registered capital, and shareholders is called a Memorandum of Association (MOA). Prepare the MOA in accordance with Dubai’s legal requirements and submit it to the DED.

6. Check the Other Requirements

Depending on your specific business activity, there may be additional UAE professional license requirements to fulfill. These could include obtaining licenses from relevant regulatory bodies, such as the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) for healthcare-related businesses or the Dubai Municipality for food-related businesses.

7. Submit Documents and Pay Fees

Submit the required paperwork to the DED for final approval after it has been completed and the necessary costs have been paid. After reviewing your application, the DED will provide the professional license if all requirements are satisfied.

Documents Required to Apply for a Professional License in Dubai

To complete your Dubai professional license application, the following documents are typically required –

  • Completed application form
  • Passport copies of the business owners
  • Proof of address
  • No objection certificate from the sponsor (if applicable)
  • Business plan
  • Initial deposit (if required)
  • Local service agent agreement
  • Trade name reservation certificate
  • Memorandum of Association
  • Any additional documents specific to your business activity

Conclusion

Obtaining a professional license in Dubai is essential for any individual or company looking to offer professional services in the UAE. With the right guidance, the process is straightforward and offers numerous benefits, including full ownership, lower setup costs, and visa eligibility. 

By following the steps outlined in this guide, you will be on your journey towards business setup in Dubai UAE. With Future Dream, as your partner, you can rest assured that every aspect of your Dubai professional license application will be handled with expertise and efficiency. 

Also Read: Step-by-Step Guide to Establishing Your Business with IFZA

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