A consultancy license is one of the most sought-after business license categories in the UAE. Professionals working in business management, accounting, marketing, and other specialist service sectors often opt for this license. Both large corporations and small enterprises in the UAE actively seek consultancy services, which strengthens the market demand.

Many organizations seek expert guidance to improve operations and accelerate growth. Business consultants play a key role in the UAE corporate sector by offering smart strategies to expand operations and attract more clients. The consultancy license covers activities such as employee training, IT consulting, marketing solutions, financial advisory, and more.

A consultancy license provides the ideal foundation for starting a company and capitalizing on this growing demand. The UAE allows a wide range of activities under the consultancy license category, giving investors flexible options to match their skills.

The cost of a consultancy license in the UAE starts from AED 8,050 in free zones. Investors can choose the most suitable activity from a wide range of permitted consultancy services and start their business with confidence.

What Is a Consultancy License?

A consultancy license is a form of trade license that allows individuals and companies to start a consultancy business in the UAE. The country offers three primary categories for trade licenses:

• Professional
• Commercial
• Industrial

A consultancy license falls under the professional license category as it focuses on providing specialist knowledge and specialized services.

Types of Consultancy Licenses

You can apply for a consultancy license in several specialized areas, including:

Business and Management: You can help companies improve processes, reduce costs, and increase overall productivity. Businesses typically hire these consultants to address specific operational challenges.

Finance: You can provide services related to financial planning, investment advice, financial reporting, data analysis, and risk control.

Marketing: Marketing consultants help brands design strategies, execute campaigns, analyze markets, and improve customer reach.

Legal: You can provide services focused on compliance management, risk advice, legal documentation assistance, contract review, and specialized advisory services.

Human Resources: HR consultants guide companies in addressing recruitment strategies, employee engagement, workplace policies, and HR-related matters.

Artificial Intelligence: AI consultants support organizations by identifying opportunities to implement AI solutions to automate tasks and increase efficiency.

Banking: Banking consultants provide advisory services to banks in areas such as compliance, risk assessment, and financial strategy. They may also work directly with banking clients.

IT: As an IT consultant, you can help businesses manage, upgrade, and optimize their technology infrastructure and digital systems.

How to Get a Management Consultancy License in Dubai

Choose Your Business Activity and Jurisdiction

There is a clear and proven process to follow to start a management consultancy in Dubai, especially when you understand each stage properly.

Start by deciding on your business activity and the jurisdiction where you want to register the company. Management consultancy is a permitted activity in both mainland and free zone areas. Free zones such as DMCC, IFZA and Meydan attract consultancies that primarily serve international clients, while a mainland license from the Department of Economic Development (DED) suits businesses that plan to work closely with clients in the UAE.

File your application with the required documents

You then submit the application with the required documents. These usually include passport copies, proof of residential address, passport-sized photographs and sometimes a short business plan. The relevant authority - the Free Zone Authority or DED - reviews the submission and grants initial approval. In most cases, no external approvals are required, making the process simple and straightforward.

Decide on your company name and legal structure

After choosing a location, choose an appropriate company name and legal structure. Many consultants choose a sole proprietorship or a limited liability company (LLC), depending on whether they will run the business independently or with partners. Dubai follows strict naming rules - initials are generally not allowed, and the name must match the activity, avoiding religious, offensive or inappropriate words.

Set up a corporate bank account

The last step involves opening a corporate bank account. Banks may request your trade license, company incorporation papers, and rental agreement if necessary. Some banks also ask for a detailed business plan or a face-to-face meeting before final approval. Once the account is opened, your consultancy is fully ready to operate.

Get your license and apply for a visa

Upon approval, the authority issues your management consultancy license, which allows you to proceed with visa applications. Free zones usually offer predefined visa packages, while mainland companies can sponsor employees according to their office space. Once the visa is applied, you can officially start your business operations.

Documents Required to Obtain a Consultancy License in the UAE

If you are planning to apply for a management consultancy license in DBS Business Setup Group, you need to submit the following documents during the application process.

• A recent digital passport-sized photograph
• A clear copy of your passport
• A copy of your valid residency visa
• A copy of your Emirates ID

To speed up the approval process, SRTIP helps you collect and organize all these documents when setting up a management consultancy in DBS Business Setup Group.

How Much Does a Consultancy License Cost in the UAE?

The cost of a consultancy license in Dubai depends primarily on your chosen jurisdiction and legal framework. In most cases, a consultancy license starts at around AED 5,700 in a free zone and around AED 15,000 on the mainland. This fee usually covers basic registration and licensing fees. You can check our cost calculator to find out the exact cost of starting a consultancy business in the UAE.

Read More: UAE Labor Card: Costs, How To Get, Required Documents (A Complete Guide)

Why Choose DBS Business Setup Group?

Setting up your consultancy with DBS Business Setup Group places you among the successful consulting firms already thriving in this major business hub.

With premium office facilities and a strategic location, DBS Business Setup Group also offers MOFA-accredited licensing, fast online incorporation, no paid-up share capital, unlimited visas based on office size, immediate IBAN support, zero income and corporate tax and additional community benefits. Our experienced team manages the entire setup process, helping you choose the right structure and complete all formalities for a smooth and hassle-free launch.