Education remained high on the UAE government’s agenda in 2019. In continuation of its efforts to build a competitive knowledge economy, the cabinet’s new skill development program identified leadership, critical thinking, communication, scientific, tech and financial literacy as some key training areas for Emirati students and professionals to gain an international level of competence.
Major economic hubs such as Dubai are welcoming increased levels of investment in executive education and industry-specific training to help the local workforce meet the needs of their fast-growing business sectors.
As the government offers more freedom to foreign investors than ever before, the time is ripe for setting up a training company in Dubai.
The requirements for getting a training institute license in Dubai are similar to most business set-ups in Dubai. Shareholders need to obtain authorization from:
a) the relevant government authority, which is the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) in the case of privately owned education-focused companies; and
b) the Department of Economic Development (DED) or a free zone authority, depending on whether the company will be established in the mainland or a free zone.
Also read: How to get an e-commerce license in Dubai
Major steps for getting a training institute license in Dubai
1) The DED or free zone authority performs a security check of all shareholders of the business and issues an initial clearance for the business. At this point, a list of three proposed names for the business is submitted and reserved for the duration of the application process. An initial approval and trade name certificate is issued.
2) These documents are then submitted to the KHDA, along with a registration plan, a detailed list of courses and the institute’s manager qualifications. The shareholders’ and institute manager’s passport copies are also provided to KHDA.
Additionally, NOCs from other government authorities must be obtained. These include the Dubai Civil Defense, which inspects the proposed floor layout of the institute premises, and Dubai Municipality, which ensures that the premises meet all health and safety requirements.
After reviewing all the documents, the KHDA will issue its NOC.
3) After the KHDA approves the initial application, the permit is submitted to DED or the free zone authority. If all documents are considered acceptable, the training permit is issued.
4) Once all trainers and administrative staff have been appointed and the premises fully furnished with the appropriate equipment (where necessary), KHDA performs the last inspection before issuing its final approval.
Some key points to remember when applying for a training institute license in Dubai is that an institute is only authorised to provide training for which it has acquired approval. The license is also subject to annual renewal and is non-transferable.
Are you interested in setting up a training company in Dubai? Our trusted consultants at Decisive Zone can guide you through every step of the process. Contact us now at +971 4 581 3618 or [email protected] to book an appointment.