Professional License in Dubai

A Valid license is an essential requirement to set up a business in Dubai. Dubai has four types of licenses for business purposes: Commercial license, Professional license, Industrial license, and Tourism license. A professional license in Dubai is a permit issued by the government for individuals or companies to provide specific professional services in the Dubai Mainland. You can get a professional license in Dubai by applying to the DED after choosing your business activities and securing any required approvals. You will not form a business in freezone with a professional license issued by DED. It has separate rules, regulations, and license requirements to incorporate a company in Dubai freezone. This article helps you to learn about a professional license in Dubai, its requirements, and how to obtain it.

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What is a Professional License in Dubai?

In the Emirate of Dubai, a Professional License issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED) serves as a legal authorisation for individuals or companies to engage in specific professional service activities. This license caters to businesses offering expertise in various fields, from healthcare and IT to consultancy and artistic endeavours. By obtaining a Professional License, businesses offering professional services ensure they operate within the legal framework established by the DED.

Who Needs to Get a Professional License in Dubai?

Those who provide specific professional services must get a professional license in Dubai. The below activities are considered as Professional license activities according to DED, which you are required to get a professional license in Dubai,

• Professionals with Specific Skills: Accountants, auditors, financial advisors, advertising professionals, entertainment artists, architectural consultants, teachers, educational professionals, business consultants, lawyers, legal advisors, and medical representatives.

• Skilled Trades and Crafts: Carpenters, artisans involved in handcrafted goods creation, and technical service providers.

• Consultancy Services: Businesses offering consultancy services in various fields.

• Creative and Media Fields: Printing and publishing houses, internet and web design service providers.

• Personal Care Services: Beauty salons.

Professional License Requirements in Dubai

Obtaining a professional license in Dubai involves meeting specific requirements of the Department of Economic Development (DED). Here are the major and common documents you'll need to submit:

• Completed Application Form: Ensure you complete the application for a professional license accurately and completely.

• Passport and Visa Information:

• Copies of passports for all owners and partners involved in the business.

• If applicable, a copy of the local partner's naturalisation book (Jinsiya).

• Foreign partners with an existing employment visa are required to obtain a No-Objection Certificate (NOC) from their current sponsor.

• If a foreign partner is on a visit visa, provide their UID number.

• Copies of visit, tourist, or transit visas for any foreign partners.

• Initial Approvals: Depending on your chosen professional activity, you might need initial approvals from relevant authorities. These could include the Dubai Municipality, Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), or the National Media Council.

How to Get a Professional License in Dubai?

Securing a professional license in Dubai helps you to conduct your professional activities and services. Here's a brief process on getting a Professional license in Dubai,

1. Define Your Business Activities:

• Clearly outline the professional services your company will offer. This is crucial for determining the specific requirements and approvals needed.

2. Partner with a Local Service Agent:

• Appoint a local service agent to handle the legal paperwork and ensure compliance with regulations.

3. Obtain Initial DED Approval:

• Following your agent's appointment, seek initial approval from the Department of Economic Development (DED).

4. Reserve a Business Name and Submit Documents:

• Choose a unique business name (fees apply) and reserve it with the DED.

• Compile all necessary documents, including those outlined in the "Professional License Requirements" section. Submit them to the DED for review and approval.

5. Local Service Agreement:

• Complete the local service agreement form with the help of a local interpreter. Ensure it's notarised by a public notary.

• Arabic agreements don't require a legal translator's seal.

6. Memorandum of Association (MOA):

• Establish a Memorandum of Association (MOA) with your local service agent, outlining their fees and responsibilities.

7. Civil Company License Registration (if applicable):

• For civil company licenses, complete an additional registration form and attest it.

8. Court Agreement Signing:

• All partners/owners must be present before the registrar to sign the final court agreement.

9. Tenancy Contract Approval:

• Secure local consent for your tenancy contract.

10. Final Submission and Collection:

• Submit all attested forms (one original copy each), owner/partner passport copies, and any required NOCs for expatriate owners/partners.

• Pay the license fee and collect your professional license at the DED counter. You'll receive a payment voucher for your records.

Also read: Difference between Commercial and Professional License in Dubai

Professional License Cost in Dubai

Professional license cost in Dubai isn't a single fixed fee. Instead, it encompasses various charges rolled into one final amount. These can include the professional license fee, trade name reservation, service agent fees, variable market fees based on your office space, government cultural fees, administrative service charges, and even local fees.

Learn about checking the validity of professional license in Dubai

Professional License Renewal in Dubai

For healthcare facilities, professional license renewals in Dubai can be done through the Dubai Health Authority (DHA). This streamlined process allows facilities to renew online licenses for full-time and part-time healthcare professionals. The renewal extends the validity of the license by one year from its expiry date. The steps are simple: submit an online application, pay the required fees, and receive a renewed electronic license (eLicense) upon approval. 

Learn to renew the other kinds of professional licenses in Dubai

Conclusion

A DED professional license in Dubai allows businesses with specialised skills to operate legally within the Dubai Mainland. This guide has explained the different aspects of a professional license, including what it is, who needs it, the application process, and renewal procedures. Understanding these requirements is essential for businesses offering professional services in Dubai. Ensure you follow all rules and regulations laid out by the DED to form a business in Dubai Mainland.

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