DED Professional License in Dubai: All You Need to Know

Are you looking to share your expertise in a certain industry without being constrained by a market in Dubai? Getting a professional license through the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DDED) is the best option for you. By obtaining this license, you can offer your services to any UAE client or company according to your areas of expertise without the need for a local sponsor. Instead, you will only need a local service agent who allows you to own 100% of your business.

Anyone who desires to practice a profession in which they are proficient can receive a professional license in Dubai. The license can also be called a service license or consultancy license.

Who Needs DED Professional Service License?

Any business activity in Dubai requires a trade license. To provide greater control and convenience, the Ministry of Economic Development established a new administrative system that separates departments into different licensing options. The key is to choose the right trading license for your company formation in UAE. 

In the United Arab Emirates, a license is required for those who fall into the following categories (list is not exhaustive):

• Artisanship
• Carpentry
• Consultancy Services
• Beauty Salons
• Security Services
• Medical Services
• Document Clearing
• Repair Services
• Printing and Publishing, etc. 

However, certain business activities may qualify for both professional and commercial licenses in Dubai. And therefore, entrepreneurs often wonder whether they need a commercial license or a professional license in Dubai. That is why consulting a business setup in Dubai expert before applying for a trade license is always recommended.

How To Apply for a DED License in Dubai?

You need to follow the below steps in order to apply for a DED business license.

Step 1. Select between the Free Zone and Mainland Dubai

Entrepreneurs must first determine whether they want to operate on the mainland or in a free zone before applying for a DED license in Dubai. Mainland and free zones offer different benefits and regulations. Our MMF experts can help you determine whether mainland Dubai or a free zone would meet your needs, depending on your special circumstances. If you want your mainland company formation in Dubai, you only need to register with the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED).

Step 2. Decide the Type of Company to Register

Another crucial consideration is the legal form, or legal entity, that the firm will adopt. The nature of the economic activity, the number & nationality of owners, and the ownership alternatives all influence the legal structure that a company might choose. Generally, a firm can choose from 16 different legal forms such as: 

• Sole Proprietorship
• One Person Company 
• Civil Company
• LLC
• Private Share Holding Company
• Public Share Holding Company
• Simple Limited Partnership
• Partnership Company
• Branch of a Foreign Company
• Representative Office
• Branch of a Dubai-based Company
• Branch of a UAE-based Company
• Branch of a GCC-based Company
• Branch of a Free zone Company
• Intelaq (Home-based business for UAE Nationals)
• SME License

Step 3. Prepare Your Documents

As soon as you choose the legal form of your business, you need to prepare the necessary documents so that you can apply for a Dubai business license. Below, we have listed the documents that you will need.

• Certificate of validity for the company
• Certificate of initial approval
• Lease approved by Dubai Municipality and certified by RERA (Ejari)
• The memorandum of association 
• Agreements with local service agencies (applicable to UAE nationals responsible for licensing and regulatory compliance for your business)
• Obtaining government approval (for certain types of businesses)

Using the electronic service platform on DED’s website, businesses can issue trade name certifications and initial approval certificates. However, a Memorandum of Association (MoA) should be drafted using legal forms such as ones supplied by DED Legal Affairs or Notaries Public. 

Step 4. Consult Business Setup Firm

It is not easy to obtain a professional license from DED. This requires an organized procedure to follow and can be time-consuming for entrepreneurs.  At Make My Firm, we have dedicated business setup consultants who can help you with all the paperwork and approvals needed for your professional license in Dubai.

Hence, if you’d like a free consultation, please contact us at +971 52 673 9777. If you have any questions, email us at infommf@makemyfirm.ae