Dubai has positioned itself as a global business hub, attracting entrepreneurs, investors, and professionals from around the world. With a strong economy, investor-friendly regulations, and tax advantages, starting a consultancy business in Dubai is a profitable opportunity.
If you’re planning to offer professional advisory services, obtaining a Consultancy License in Dubai is mandatory. In this complete guide, we explain the requirements, process, cost breakdown, and frequently asked questions to help you get started smoothly.
What Is a Consultancy License in Dubai?
A consultancy license is a professional business license that allows individuals or companies to provide expert advisory services legally within the UAE. It is issued either by Dubai Mainland authorities or by one of the city’s free zones.
This license is required for service-based activities such as:
- Business consulting
- IT consulting
- Management advisory
- Marketing consulting
- Financial advisory
- HR consulting
- Engineering consultancy
Unlike a commercial license, a consultancy license does not allow trading physical goods.
Types of Consultancy License in Dubai
Before starting, you must decide where to register your consultancy business.
1. Mainland Consultancy License
Issued by Dubai’s mainland authority, this option allows you to:
- Operate anywhere in the UAE
- Work with government contracts
- Serve both local and international clients
Mainland setup offers maximum flexibility for business growth.
2. Free Zone Consultancy License
Dubai has several free zones that offer consultancy licenses with benefits such as:
- 100% foreign ownership
- Zero personal income tax
- Full profit repatriation
- Affordable startup packages
However, free zone businesses may require a local distributor or agent to operate directly in the mainland market.
Requirements for Consultancy License in Dubai
To obtain a consultancy license, you must meet certain eligibility criteria.
1. Professional Qualification
You must provide proof of expertise in your consultancy field. This may include:
- University degree
- Professional certifications
- Work experience documents
For example, financial consultants may need accounting credentials, while IT consultants may require technical certifications.
2. Business Structure
You can choose from:
- Sole Establishment (for individual consultants)
- Limited Liability Company (LLC)
- Civil Company (for professional partnerships)
Your structure affects liability, ownership, and documentation.
3. Office Space
Dubai requires a registered business address. Options include:
- Flexi-desk packages
- Co-working spaces
- Private offices
Free zones often provide cost-effective office solutions.
4. Trade Name Registration
Your company name must comply with UAE naming regulations and reflect your consultancy activity.
5. Initial Approval
You must obtain initial approval from the licensing authority before final license issuance.
Step-by-Step Process to Get a Consultancy License
Here is a simplified process:
- Select your consultancy activity
- Choose mainland or free zone setup
- Register trade name
- Obtain initial approval
- Secure office space
- Submit required documents
- Pay government fees
- Receive your consultancy license
After license issuance, you can apply for residency visas if needed.
Cost of Consultancy License in Dubai
The cost varies depending on jurisdiction, office type, and visa requirements.
Estimated Cost Breakdown
- License Fee: AED 10,000 – AED 25,000
- Office Rent / Flexi-desk: AED 3,000 – AED 30,000 annually
- Local Service Agent (if mainland): AED 5,000 – AED 15,000
- Visa Fees: AED 1,000 – AED 3,000 per visa
- Additional approvals (if required): AED 2,000 – AED 10,000
Total Estimated Cost
The overall cost of a consultancy license in Dubai typically ranges between:
AED 20,000 to AED 60,000 (first year)
Free zones often provide startup packages that bundle license and office space at competitive rates.
Benefits of Starting a Consultancy Business in Dubai
Starting a consultancy business in Dubai offers multiple advantages:
- Strong business ecosystem
- Access to international markets
- Tax-friendly policies
- High demand for professional services
- Business credibility in a global hub
Dubai’s strategic location also makes it easier to serve clients across the Middle East, Europe, Asia, and Africa.