In Dubai, a professional licence is issued to an individual or company that offers services based on technical knowledge or ability. It is one of the most common licence types used by consultants, freelancers and businesses to conduct business within the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Dubai’s friendly business environment has enabled many foreign professionals to successfully obtain a professional licence with greater ease than ever before.
Additionally, since obtaining a professional licence provides business owners with maximum operational flexibility and credibility, this guide provides guidance on who is eligible for a professional licence, what types of businesses are eligible to offer professional services, the cost of obtaining a professional licence, as well as information regarding how Document Manager can support your application process.
What Is a Professional License in Dubai?
In Dubai, a professional license is a legal license issued to businesses and/or individuals to perform professional services or activities, rather than trading physical items or manufacturing products.
This license focuses on the individual’s qualifications, expertise, and services. For example, a professional license can be issued to consultants, specialists, and highly-skilled professionals. The Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) can issue professional licenses for businesses located in the mainland. Alternatively, several free zone authorities can also issue professional licenses for businesses based in their free zones.
With a professional license in Dubai, you can:
- Offer services legally within approved activities
- Invoice clients and enter contracts
- Apply for residence visas
- Open a corporate bank account
Professional Activities Allowed
A professional license in Dubai covers a wide range of service-based activities. The exact activity must be selected and approved during the application process.
Common professional activities include:
- Business and management consulting
- IT services and software development
- Marketing, advertising, and media services
- Accounting, auditing, and financial consultancy
- Legal consultancy (subject to approvals)
- Engineering, architecture, and technical services
- Freelance and creative services
Choosing the correct activity is crucial, as your professional license in Dubai only allows you to operate within the approved scope.
Who Can Apply for a Professional License?
There are several ways in which you can apply for a professional license in Dubai and they include:
1) as an individual professional/freelancer
2) as an entrepreneur providing a particular type of service
3) as a foreign investor or an expatriate
4) as a small-medium size service company.
You need to provide your qualifications and work experience and all relevant certifications which prove your ability to practice your intended professional work when you apply for a professional license. You must obtain additional permission from the appropriate UAE authority because you plan to work in a profession that requires licensing.
Many foreign nationals prefer to apply for a professional license in Dubai because it offers them the greatest degree of operational flexibility and permits greater latitude in terms of conducting their business.
Mainland vs Free Zone Professional License
Choosing between mainland and free zone is a key decision when applying for a professional license in Dubai.
Mainland Professional License
- Operate anywhere in Dubai and across the UAE
- Work directly with local and government clients
- Often requires a local service agent (no ownership rights)
- Office space may be required
Free Zone Professional License
- 100% foreign ownership
- Cost-effective setup options
- Simplified registration and compliance
- May have restrictions on mainland clients
The right option depends on your target market, budget, and long-term expansion plans.
Cost of Professional License in Dubai
The cost of a professional license in Dubai varies depending on jurisdiction, activity, and office requirements.
Mainland Professional License Cost
A mainland professional license costs includes:
- License issuance fees
- Trade name registration
- Initial approvals
Free Zone Professional License Cost
Free zone professional licenses prices often depends on:
- Free zone authority
- Visa quota
- Office or flexi-desk package
Additional costs may apply for visas, office space, or external approvals.
100% Ownership Rules
One of the biggest advantages of a professional license in Dubai is the ability for foreign nationals to retain 100% ownership of their business.
For mainland professional licenses:
- A local service agent may be required
- The agent has no equity or control over the business
For free zone professional licenses:
- Full ownership is granted with no local involvement
This ownership structure makes the professional license one of the most flexible and investor-friendly options in Dubai.
Docman Professional License Support
A professional license in Dubai can be obtained with complete assistance from Docman, which will help you set up your business legally.
- Complete assistance from selecting activities through to the issuance of your license.
- Accelerated approval through reduced errors due to a professional managing your application for a license with the main land and free zone government departments.
- Transparent pricing structure allowing you to select the most appropriate professional license for your business without hidden fees.
- Post-license support, including license renewal, amendment, visa processing and continued compliance assistance as required by UAE law.
