Behind every successful business in Dubai, there’s often a trusted consultant offering expert advice from the sidelines. From solving business challenges to guiding strategic decisions, consultants are the go-to experts that companies rely on to move forward with clarity and confidence.
As Dubai continues to attract global investors and startups, the demand for professional consultancy services is rising rapidly across industries—from tech and finance to healthcare and human resources.
Recent figures show that the UAE’s consulting market is on track to grow by over 6% annually through 2028, driven by:
- Digital transformation
- Government initiatives like UAE Vision 2031
- The constant push for innovation
But here’s the key: to offer consultancy services legally, you must have a valid consultancy license in Dubai.
This license makes your business legal and allows you to:
✔ Sign contracts
✔ Open a company bank account
✔ Rent office space
✔ Sponsor employees
If you’re thinking of offering consultancy services in Dubai, here’s a step-by-step guide to obtaining a valid consultancy license in Dubai.
What is a Consultancy License in Dubai?
A Consultancy License in Dubai is a legal authorisation that allows individuals or companies to offer advisory and expert services to businesses across various industries. This license is essential for consultants to operate legally in the UAE and provides the necessary framework for conducting business in a transparent and regulated environment.
Types of Services Covered by a Consultancy License in the UAE
A consultancy license can cover a wide range of services, depending on the area of expertise. Some common consultancy services include:
| Consultancy Type | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. Business Consultancy | Helping businesses develop strategies, improve operations, and optimize growth potential. |
| 2. Management Consultancy | Advising on organizational structure, leadership strategies, and performance management. |
| 3. HR Consultancy | Offering services like recruitment, employee management, and HR policies. |
| 4. IT Consultancy | Providing tech-related advice, including software solutions, cybersecurity, and digital transformation. |
| 5. Marketing Consultancy | Guiding businesses on branding, digital marketing, market research, and customer strategies. |
| 6. Legal Advisory | Offering advice on legal matters such as contracts, company setup, compliance, and dispute resolution. |
| 7. Financial Consultancy | Providing services on budgeting, financial planning, accounting, and tax-related issues. |
Difference Between a Professional and a Commercial License for Consultancy
While both professional and commercial licenses can apply to consultancy businesses, there are key differences in terms of the scope and activities permitted.
| Professional Consultancy License | Commercial Consultancy License |
|---|---|
| A professional consultancy license is ideal for businesses offering professional services and advisory roles. It’s focused on consultancy that requires expertise in a particular field, such as law, finance, marketing, IT, or human resources. This includes purely advisory and consulting services that do not involve product sales or commercial transactions. Consultants typically provide specialised knowledge and strategic advice to clients. Examples: Legal advisors, IT consultants, marketing strategists, financial planners, HR consultants. | A Commercial License allows you to operate a consultancy business that also involves trading, distribution, or sales alongside consultancy services. It can be used for businesses that provide both consultancy and product-related services. This includes consulting services in addition to commercial activities such as sales, product distribution, and other trading-related activities. This license is broader, allowing businesses to combine consulting with the sale of goods or services. Examples: A marketing consultancy that also sells advertising products, a technology consultancy that supplies software or hardware solutions. |
What are the Documents Required to Obtain a Consultancy License in Dubai, UAE?
- Passport copies (all shareholders/partners/managers)
- Visa copy (if applicable)
- Proof of address (for all shareholders/partners)
- Educational qualifications & CV (for the consultant/business owner)
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) (if employed in the UAE)
- Trade name reservation
- Business plan
- Office lease agreement (Ejari)
- Approval from relevant authorities (for specific consultancy fields)
- Proof of experience (if required)
How to Get a Consultancy License in Dubai, UAE
To obtain a consultancy license in Dubai, follow these steps:
Step 1: Determine Your Consultancy Service Type
- Identify the specific type of consultancy services you will offer (e.g., business, legal, IT, HR). This will help determine the exact requirements for your license.
Step 2: Choose Your Business Location (Mainland or Free Zone)
- Decide if you want to operate your consultancy in the Dubai Mainland or a Free Zone. Mainland businesses have access to the entire UAE market, while Free Zones offer benefits like 100% foreign ownership and tax incentives.
Step 3: Select a Trade Name
- Choose a unique name for your consultancy business in Dubai. Ensure it complies with local naming regulations and reserve the name with the Department of Economic Development (DED) or Free Zone authority.
Step 4: Apply for Initial Approval
- Submit an application for initial approval from the DED or relevant Free Zone authority. This confirms that your business idea is compliant with regulations.
Step 5: Sign a Lease Agreement
- Secure office space for your consultancy business. This is required for Mainland businesses, while Free Zone offices may be included in package offerings.
Step 6: Submit the Required Documents
- Gather and submit all the necessary documents (passport copies, proof of address, educational qualifications, etc.) to the relevant authority.
Step 7: Obtain the Consultancy License
- Once all documents are approved and payments are made, the DED or Free Zone authority will issue your consultancy license in Dubai.
Step 8: Apply for Residency Visa (if required)
- If you’re setting up a Mainland consultancy, apply for a UAE residency visa for yourself and your employees.
Step 9: Complete Post-Licensing Formalities
Once your consultancy license is issued, you may need to complete additional post-licensing formalities, such as:
- Registering with relevant professional bodies (e.g., if you’re offering legal or financial consultancy, you may need approval from industry regulators).
- Opening a corporate bank account in the UAE.
- Completing other legal or regulatory filings.
How Much Does a Consultancy License Cost in Dubai?
The consultancy license cost in Dubai generally falls between AED 15,000 to AED 30,000. For Mainland consultancy licenses, the cost is generally around AED 18,500. However, the overall cost varies depending on several factors, such as whether you choose to set up in Dubai Mainland or a Free Zone, the type of consultancy services you provide, and additional business requirements.
Besides the license, there are other costs to consider:
| Office Rent | If you’re setting up in the mainland, you are required to have a physical office space. |
| Visa Fees for Employees | If you need additional employee visas, the cost is usually between AED 3,000 to AED 7,000 per visa. |
| Renewal Fees | Consultancy licenses in Dubai need to be renewed annually, and renewal fees are like the initial licensing costs. |
| Health Insurance | For employees, health insurance coverage can range from AED 1,000 to AED 3,000 per person annually. |
| Document Certification and Notarization | For legal documents, notarization or certification may cost between AED 500 to AED 2,000. |
Note: Shuraa Business Setup can help guide you through the process, ensuring that you meet all the necessary legal requirements and help with cost-efficient solutions for your consultancy license.
What are the Benefits of Starting a Consultancy Business in Dubai?
Here’s why starting a consultancy business in Dubai is a smart choice:
✅ Growing Knowledge Economy
Dubai is rapidly transitioning into a knowledge-based economy, with a strong demand for consultancy services in emerging sectors like AI, smart cities, and renewable energy. This shift provides incredible opportunities for consultants with expertise in these areas.
✅ Low Operational Costs
Dubai offers relatively low operational costs for startups, especially in Free Zones, where businesses can benefit from tax exemptions and reduced administrative costs.
✅ High Client Retention
Dubai values long-term relationships, and consultants who deliver results can benefit from strong client retention and referrals, leading to sustained growth.
✅ Ease of Business Setup
Dubai has a business-friendly regulatory environment that makes it relatively simple and quick to set up a consultancy. The process is streamlined, and there are various Free Zones that cater specifically to consultancy firms, providing packages that include office space, visas, and licenses.
✅ Access to High-Profile Clients
Dubai is home to many multinational companies, government entities, and high-net-worth individuals who are frequently in need of specialised consultancy services. By establishing a consultancy in Dubai, you gain access to a prestigious client base.
✅ Streamlined Government Services
The government’s efficient, digitalised services make it easy to get a business up and running quickly. The fast-licensing process and online services ensure minimal delays for consultants starting their business.
Ready to Start Your Consultancy in Dubai?
Starting a consultancy business in Dubai is a smart move, with plenty of opportunities to grow and succeed. The city’s booming market and need for expert services make it the perfect place to launch your business. The best part? Setting up is much easier than you might think, especially with the right help.
Skip the paperwork and legal hurdles—let our experts handle your consultancy license in Dubai with:
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Do I need a specific qualification to obtain a Consultancy License?
Yes, for certain types of consultancies, such as management consultancy in Dubai, you may need relevant qualifications or experience in that field. Certifications may also be required to demonstrate your expertise.
2. Can I operate as a sole consultant with a Consultancy License in Dubai?
Yes, you can apply for a consultancy license in Dubai as a sole proprietor. If you plan to provide services alone, you can operate under your own name with the required qualifications and documentation.
3. What is the consultancy license cost in UAE?
The cost for obtaining a consultancy license in Dubai or UAE depends on the type of consultancy and whether it’s a mainland or free zone license. On average, the costs range from AED 15,000 to AED 30,000 for a management consultancy license in Dubai or other consultancy services.
4. What types of consultancy businesses can be licensed in Dubai?
You can license many types, such as management consultancy, IT consultancy, HR, legal advisory, education consultancy, marketing consultancy, and more.
5. What is the difference between a mainland, free zone, and offshore consultancy license?
Mainland: Allows you to work anywhere in the UAE.
Free zone: Offers 100% ownership and benefits but limits direct UAE market access unless through a distributor or agent.
Offshore: Primarily for international consulting, not allowed to operate inside the UAE market.
6. What is the minimum capital requirement for a consultancy license?
There is usually no mandatory minimum capital required, especially in free zones. Some zones require just a nominal share capital.
7. What are the tax implications for a consultancy business in Dubai?
Dubai offers 0% personal income tax, but your business may be subject to 9% corporate tax if profits exceed AED 375,000 annually.
8. Are there any restrictions on the consultancy services I can offer?
Yes, you can only offer the services approved under your license type. You must apply for additional approvals if you want to expand your scope.
9. Can foreigners obtain a consultancy license in Dubai?
Yes, foreigners can 100% own a consultancy license in Dubai, both in the mainland and the free zone.
10. Can I operate my consultancy business online, or do I need a physical office?
Yes, you can operate online, especially with a free zone license, but a registered office address (even a flexi-desk) might still be required.
11. How do I renew my consultancy license in Dubai?
You must renew it annually by submitting the required documents and paying the renewal fee to the licensing authority.
12. Can I provide services outside of Dubai/UAE with this license?
Yes, you can offer consultancy services internationally, depending on the rules of your business jurisdiction.
13. What are the best free zones for consultancy businesses in Dubai?
Top choices include Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC), Dubai Internet City (DIC), Dubai Media City, and IFZA Dubai due to their flexible packages and consultancy-friendly regulations.
*Disclaimer: The information in this post is for general guidance only and may change due to updates in government policies or regulations.
