
A Professional License in Dubai is the ideal choice for anyone wishing to provide consulting, technical, creative, or any service that relies on personal skill and expertise. This license gives you the legal right to practice your profession in one of the region’s most attractive cities for professionals and entrepreneurs.
In this comprehensive guide from Tdabeer, you’ll discover everything you need to know about the requirements, steps, estimated costs, and documents needed to obtain your professional license in Dubai for 2025.

What Is a Professional License and Who Needs It?
The professional license is granted to individuals or companies offering services based on qualifications or personal expertise, such as:
- Management, legal, or financial consulting
- Creative and design services (graphic design, advertising, photography)
- Programming, web and app development
- Accounting and auditing
- Training and education services
- Specialized medical and technical professions
Difference Between Professional, Commercial, and Industrial Licenses
- Professional License: For activities based on skill or expertise (consulting, services, freelancing).
- Commercial License: For buying, selling, and general trading activities.
- Industrial License: For manufacturing, production, and processing raw materials.
Steps to Obtain a Professional License in Dubai
- Accurately define your professional activity: Choose your activity from the approved list at the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET).
- Reserve your trade name: Ensure the name is available and suitable for your activity.
- Obtain initial approval: Submit a preliminary application and receive a no-objection certificate.
- Prepare the Memorandum of Association (for companies): Draft and notarize the MOA if the activity will be practiced through a company.
- Secure a business location: Sign a lease for an office or workspace and register it in the Ejari system.
- Submit final documents: Upload all required documents electronically via the DET platform.
- Pay fees and receive your license: After final approval, pay the fees and receive your professional license.
Estimated Costs for a Professional License in Dubai (2025)
| Item | Approximate Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| Initial approval & trade name reservation | 1,000 – 1,500 |
| Basic professional license fee | 7,500 – 15,000 |
| Additional fees (Establishment card, etc.) | 1,500 – 3,000 |
Note: Costs are estimates and may vary depending on activity type, number of partners, and office size.
Required Documents for a Professional License
- Copy of passport and residency (if available)
- Recent personal photo
- Academic qualification or professional experience certificate (for some activities)
- Office lease contract (Ejari)
- Memorandum of Association (for companies)
- Approval from regulatory authorities (for some activities such as medicine or engineering)
Why Choose Tdabeer for Your Professional License?
At Tdabeer, we guarantee a fast and smooth setup experience—from choosing your activity to receiving your license. Our team handles all government procedures, prepares your file, follows up with authorities, and provides legal and administrative consultation to ensure your success from day one.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Professional License in Dubai
What is the difference between a professional and a commercial license in Dubai?
A professional license is for services based on skill or academic qualification (consulting, design, programming), while a commercial license is for buying, selling, and trading goods.
Can non-residents obtain a professional license in Dubai?
Yes, foreign investors can obtain a professional license, provided they appoint a local service agent (who does not own shares in the company).
Can I add more than one professional activity to a single license?
Yes, as long as the activities are compatible and all fall under the approved professional activities category.
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