Are you planning to start a service business in Dubai? In September 2025, we are seeing a big rise in service-based companies, and the process has become very clear. To run this type of business, you need a professional license. This license is for people who provide services like consulting, IT, engineering, or accounting.
It is different from a commercial license because it does not allow you to sell products, only services. In this guide, you will learn what a professional license is, what you need to qualify, and how much it costs so you can set up your company smoothly.
The professional license in Dubai is issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED). They will check your education and experience before giving approval, which means only skilled professionals can apply. This ensures that clients get the best quality service.
The best part is that with a professional license you can have 100 percent ownership of your company. You do not need to share ownership with a partner. Everything you earn and build is fully under your control, giving you the freedom to grow your business the way you want.
You’ll need a local service agent to handle government-related formalities. But don’t worry, they’re only there to assist with legal steps and won’t interfere in your business operations. The agent charges a fixed annual fee and makes sure your business complies with the local regulations.
Licenses Here’s a list of activities covered under the professional license. You can choose from various fields, each designed to support service-based businesses. Let’s explore!
These services include civil, mechanical, electrical, and architectural engineering, among others. Dubai’s booming infrastructure means high demand for professional engineering services.
From medical practices to healthcare consulting and medical research, these services are essential to meet Dubai’s healthcare needs.
IT services like software development, cybersecurity consulting, and tech support are covered here. Technology is evolving fast, and there’s high demand for IT expertise!
Legal consultancy, dispute resolution, and contract review services all fall under this category, offering critical support to Dubai’s legal landscape.
This includes bookkeeping, tax consulting, and audit services - key services to help businesses keep their finances in check.
These cover building design, urban planning, and site evaluation, perfect for professionals who bring ideas to life in Dubai’s skyline.
Services include graphic design, website design, and branding - ideal for creative professionals who enhance brand identity.
This includes financial planning, wealth management, and investment advising services, vital for businesses to manage their finances wisely.
Services like organizational restructuring, process improvement, and performance analysis are in demand for companies to thrive.
This covers services like market research, business strategy, and innovation planning, all designed to help businesses grow.
Services here include space planning, interior decoration, and concept design to bring aesthetic appeal to commercial and residential spaces.
This covers brand consulting, apparel design, and trend forecasting, catering to Dubai’s vibrant fashion scene.
Services such as tutoring, coaching, and educational consulting are essential for those shaping the next generation.
These include wellness consulting, spa management, and beauty training, perfect for professionals in Dubai’s growing wellness industry.
Still Unsure Which Activity Fits Your Skills? Not to worry! Our team at CSPzone is here to guide you in selecting the perfect activity for your professional license. Just reach out, and we’ll make the process a breeze!
Getting your license is straightforward! Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to go about it:
Finalize which service activity your business will provide. From consulting to design, your choice should match your expertise.
Pick a unique name that represents your brand and meets DED’s guidelines. This is your business’s identity, so make it memorable!
Submit your application to the DED. This initial approval confirms that your business plan aligns with Dubai’s regulations.
This document outlines your business structure and scope. It’s an essential part of setting up your license.
Leasing an office is required, with a 5% market fee on your lease amount. This step makes your business presence official!
Some activities require additional permissions, like from Dubai Municipality. We’ll help you navigate any extra steps.
After completing all steps, submit the required fees to finalize your license. Your professional license will be issued, and your business can officially begin!
Once your business is registered, there’s one more mandatory step: registering for corporate tax within three months.
Need help with this? CSPzone can handle it for you - just let us know!
The cost of a professional license in Dubai is about AED 12,000 (around $3,200). This is just the license cost; additional expenses like agent fees, trade name fees, market fees (5% of tenancy), and office lease costs apply. It’s an investment worth making for your business success in Dubai!
Let CSPzone Guide You! If any part of the licensing process feels confusing, you’re not alone! Reach out to our expert team at CSPzone, and we’ll handle everything for you, from selecting your business activity to getting approvals. Let’s bring your business dreams to life in Dubai!
