Getting a DED professional license in Dubai

If you’re a professional intending on sharing your expertise without market restrictions in Dubai, obtaining a professional license from the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DDED) would be the best option for you. With this license, you can offer your services to any client or company in the UAE based on your area of expertise without a local sponsor. Instead, you will only need a local service agent and own 100% of your company.

Read about the difference between local service agent and local sponsor

A professional license can be issued to anyone who wishes to practice a profession which they are experts in. This license is also known as consultancy or service license. A company established with a professional license can be solely (Sole Establishment) or jointly (Civil Company) owned by expatriates. 

Qualification centre for professional license holders

Dubai Economy has established a qualification centre for professional license holders in cooperation with the American University in Dubai to train and develop directors working in consultancy professions and practicing economic activities according to the best standards and professional practices that do not need approvals from other authorities. Appointed managers must register, schedule and pay for the examination prior to trade name reservation.

The new process will cover the following business activities: