Opening a Consultancy Business in Dubai – Step by Step Guide 2025

Dubai is one of the world’s fastest-growing business hubs, attracting entrepreneurs, investors, and professionals from every corner of the globe. With its dynamic economy, tax-friendly policies, and demand for professional expertise, starting a consultancy business in Dubai has become a highly lucrative opportunity. Whether you want to provide management consultancy, financial advisory, HR solutions, or IT consulting, the first step is obtaining the right consultancy license in Dubai.

In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about opening a consultancy business in Dubai step by step, from the licensing process to approved activities, costs, and why working with experts like Quick Biz Business Setup Services LLC ensures a smooth and successful launch.

Why Start a Consultancy Business in Dubai?

The consultancy sector in Dubai is thriving, thanks to the city’s position as a global hub for trade, finance, technology, and tourism. Businesses of all sizes require expert advice on operations, management, and growth strategies. This creates endless opportunities for consultants across multiple industries.

Key reasons to set up a consultancy business in Dubai include:

• High demand for specialized management consultancy activities in Dubai

• 100% foreign ownership in many free zones

• No personal or corporate tax in most jurisdictions

• Global accessibility, as Dubai connects Asia, Europe, and Africa

• Access to a strong business ecosystem with networking opportunities

Understanding the Consultancy License in Dubai

To legally provide consultancy services, you need a consultancy license in Dubai issued by either the Department of Economic Development (DED Dubai) for mainland businesses or one of Dubai’s many free zones.

This license allows you to conduct management consultancy activities in Dubai, including business planning, marketing consultancy, project management, financial advisory, HR consultancy, IT solutions, and more. Without this license, offering professional consultancy services would not be permitted.

When applying, you must clearly define your consultancy activities to ensure compliance with local regulations. The DED Dubai has specific categories for consultancy services, and selecting the right activity is essential for a smooth approval process.

Step-by-Step Guide to Opening a Consultancy Business in Dubai

Step 1: Define Your Consultancy Activities

The first step is to decide which management consultancy activities in Dubai you want to include in your license. These could range from HR consultancy and IT advisory to financial services and project management. Choosing the right activities ensures you operate legally and can expand in the future.

Step 2: Choose Between Mainland or Free Zone

You can establish your consultancy business either on the mainland under DED Dubai or in one of Dubai’s free zones.

• Mainland (DED Dubai): Ideal if you want to work directly with UAE companies, government bodies, or local clients. It provides more flexibility and access to the local market.

• Free Zones: Perfect for international operations, offering cost-effective packages, simplified processes, and benefits like 100% ownership. Popular free zones for consultancy businesses include Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC), Dubai South, and Meydan Free Zone.

Step 3: Choose a Business Name

Select a unique and professional business name that reflects your consultancy services. Ensure the name complies with UAE naming regulations—avoid offensive words, religious references, or political terms.

Step 4: Apply for the Consultancy License in Dubai

Submit your application to either DED Dubai (for mainland) or the relevant free zone authority. You will need to provide:

• Passport copies of shareholders and partners

• Passport-sized photos

• Visa copies (if applicable)

• No Objection Certificate (NOC) if you are employed in the UAE

• Business plan (for certain free zones)

Once your documents are approved, you will receive your consultancy license in Dubai, allowing you to operate legally.

Step 5: Secure Office Space

Depending on your chosen jurisdiction, you may be required to lease physical office space or opt for a flexi-desk option available in many free zones. Mainland businesses under DED Dubai generally require a physical office address.

Step 6: Apply for Visas

A consultancy license in Dubai allows you to apply for residency visas for yourself, your employees, and your dependents. The number of visas depends on your business size and office space. This makes it easier to bring skilled professionals on board and expand your operations.

Step 7: Open a Corporate Bank Account

With your consultancy license and company documents in hand, you can open a UAE corporate bank account. This step is essential for handling business transactions, receiving client payments, and building credibility in the market.

Consultancy Business Activities in Dubai

The scope of management consultancy activities in Dubai is wide, offering flexibility for consultants to specialize in their niche. Common activities include:

• Business setup consultancy

• Project management consultancy

• Financial advisory services

• IT and technology consultancy

• Marketing and branding consultancy

• HR and recruitment consultancy

• Strategic planning and operations advisory

By selecting the right activities, your consultancy license in Dubai will cover a broad range of services, allowing you to meet diverse client needs.

Costs of a Consultancy License in Dubai

The cost of a consultancy license in Dubai varies depending on whether you choose mainland (DED Dubai) or free zone setup, the number of visas required, and your office requirements. On average, the cost can range from AED 12,000 to AED 25,000.

Free zones often offer competitive packages, while mainland licenses may involve higher costs due to office leasing requirements. Working with Quick Biz Business Setup Services LLC ensures you receive the most cost-effective solution tailored to your needs.

Benefits of Opening a Consultancy Business in Dubai

• Access to local and international markets

• Ability to conduct management consultancy activities in Dubai legally

• Strong reputation and trust with clients

• Full ownership in free zones

• Tax-free business environment

• Opportunity to apply for visas through your consultancy license in Dubai

Why Work with Quick Biz Business Setup Services LLC?

Setting up a consultancy business in Dubai can feel overwhelming, especially when dealing with DED Dubai requirements, documentation, and choosing the right jurisdiction. This is where expert assistance becomes invaluable.

At Quick Biz Business Setup Services LLC, we provide:

• Expert advice on consultancy license in Dubai options

• Guidance on management consultancy activities in Dubai

• Full support with DED Dubai applications

• Assistance with documentation, approvals, and visa processing

• Tailored solutions to match your budget and goals

👉 Learn more at https://www.quickbusinesssetup.com/

Final Thoughts

Opening a consultancy business in Dubai offers unlimited opportunities for professionals who want to establish themselves in one of the world’s most dynamic economies. By obtaining the right consultancy license in Dubai, choosing the appropriate jurisdiction, and selecting relevant management consultancy activities in Dubai, you can create a profitable and sustainable business.

Whether you opt for a mainland license under DED Dubai or a free zone setup, working with experts like Quick Biz Business Setup Services LLC ensures your business is established quickly, efficiently, and in full compliance with UAE regulations.

Take the first step today and build a successful consultancy firm in Dubai with the right guidance and support.