How to Get a Consultancy License in UAE – Step by Step Guide

Dubai and the wider UAE have established themselves as global hubs for trade, finance, and entrepreneurship. With a strong economy and increasing demand for professional expertise, many entrepreneurs and firms are exploring how to get a consultancy license in UAE. Whether you plan to offer legal, financial, management, or accounting services, a consultancy license opens doors to one of the most lucrative business environments in the Middle East.

In this detailed guide, we’ll explain the step-by-step process of how to get a consultancy license in UAE online, explore consultancy activities such as management consultancy in Dubai, and outline specialized licenses like the DIFC legal consultancy license and accounting license in UAE.

Why Start a Consultancy Business in the UAE?

The UAE attracts thousands of investors and businesses every year. Consultancy services are in high demand, whether it’s for business formation, HR solutions, IT consulting, financial advisory, or legal services. Obtaining a consultancy license in Dubai provides several benefits, including:

• 100% foreign ownership in free zones

• A tax-free environment (no personal or corporate tax in most cases)

• Easy access to international markets

• Growing demand for management consultancy activities in Dubai

• A reputation for professionalism and credibility with clients

Understanding the Consultancy License in UAE

A consultancy license in UAE is a legal requirement that permits individuals and firms to provide professional advice in specialized areas. Depending on your niche, you can apply for a management consultancy license in Dubai, a legal consultancy license in Dubai, or an accounting license in UAE.

Mainland businesses require approval from the Department of Economic Development (DED Dubai), while free zones such as DMCC, DIFC, or Meydan provide streamlined packages for consultancy licenses.

For those planning to offer legal advice, a DIFC legal consultancy license or law firm license in UAE may be necessary. In some cases, professionals must also pass the legal consultant exam in Dubai to qualify.

Step-by-Step Process: How to Get a Consultancy License in UAE

Step 1: Define Your Consultancy Activities

First, identify the services you want to provide. This could include management consultancy in Dubai, HR consulting, IT services, accounting, or legal advisory. When applying, it’s critical to list the correct management consultancy activities in Dubai to ensure compliance.

Step 2: Choose Mainland or Free Zone

You can either:

• Apply through DED Dubai for a mainland license, allowing you to work directly with UAE-based clients and government entities.

• Opt for a free zone license, which offers 100% ownership, cost-effective packages, and simplified processes.

Step 3: Register Your Business Name

Choose a trade name that reflects your consultancy services and complies with UAE naming regulations (no offensive or religious terms).

Step 4: Apply for the Consultancy License

Submit the following documents to DED Dubai or the free zone authority:

• Passport copies of shareholders

• Passport-sized photographs

• Residence visa copies (if applicable)

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

• Business plan (for certain free zones)

Step 5: Secure an Office Address

Mainland businesses generally require physical office space, while many free zones allow flexi-desk or shared office options.

Step 6: Apply for Visas

A consultancy license in Dubai allows you to sponsor visas for yourself, employees, and dependents. The number of visas depends on your office size and jurisdiction.

Step 7: Open a Corporate Bank Account

With your license, you can open a corporate account in the UAE, enabling smooth transactions with clients and vendors.

Types of Consultancy Licenses in UAE

1. Management Consultancy License in Dubai

This license covers strategic planning, operations, marketing, HR, and project management. With growing demand for management consultancy activities in Dubai, this license is ideal for business advisors.

2. Legal Consultancy License in Dubai

To offer legal advice, you need a legal consultancy license in Dubai. Lawyers and firms must also comply with local bar requirements and may be required to pass the legal consultant exam in Dubai. For international legal practices, the DIFC legal consultancy license or a law firm license in UAE may be suitable.

3. Accounting License in UAE

Businesses offering auditing, bookkeeping, or tax consultancy need an accounting license in UAE. With VAT and corporate tax regulations evolving, demand for accounting consultancy is rapidly growing.

Cost of a Consultancy License in UAE

One of the most common questions entrepreneurs ask is about the cost of obtaining a license. The consultancy license cost in UAE varies depending on whether you choose a mainland setup or a free zone. On average, the price ranges between AED 12,000 and AED 25,000. Free zones often provide bundled packages that include visas and office space, while mainland setups may require higher investment due to office requirements.

Opportunities for Growth with a Consultancy License

Once you obtain your license, the potential for growth in Dubai and the UAE is enormous. Some areas you can expand into include:

• Corporate management consultancy in Dubai

• Legal advisory and DIFC consultancy services

• Financial and accounting consultancy in UAE

• HR and recruitment consultancy

• IT consultancy and digital transformation services

With Dubai’s vision to become a global business capital, the consultancy industry will continue to expand.

Why Work with Quick Biz Business Setup Services LLC?

While it is possible to apply for a consultancy license in UAE online, the process can be overwhelming for first-time entrepreneurs. From understanding DED Dubai regulations to selecting the right jurisdiction, professional guidance is crucial.

At Quick Biz Business Setup Services LLC, we provide:

• End-to-end assistance with obtaining a consultancy license in UAE

• Expert advice on mainland vs. free zone setups

• Guidance on legal consultancy licenses in Dubai, management consultancy in Dubai, and accounting license UAE

• Cost-effective business setup solutions tailored to your needs

• Ongoing support to help you grow your consultancy business

👉 Visit us at https://www.quickbusinesssetup.com/ to get started today.

Final Thoughts

Understanding how to get a consultancy license in UAE is the first step to entering one of the fastest-growing professional service industries in the region. Whether you’re interested in a management consultancy license in Dubai, a DIFC legal consultancy license, or an accounting license in UAE, the opportunities are endless.

With the right guidance, you can build credibility, expand your client base, and establish a successful consultancy firm in the UAE. Partnering with Quick Biz Business Setup Services LLC ensures your setup process is smooth, cost-effective, and fully compliant with UAE laws.