Professional Trade License

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Start Your Trading Business in Dubai with Confidence – Professional Trade License Made Simple

What is a Professional Trade License in Dubai?

A Professional Trade License in Dubai is a legal document issued by the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) that allows individuals or companies to provide professional, service-oriented, or consultancy-based activities in the emirate. This license is essential for entrepreneurs, freelancers, and firms offering expertise in fields such as IT, design, marketing, accounting, management, education, and more.

What is a DED Professional License?

A Professional License issued by the Department of Economy and Tourism (DED Dubai) is mandatory for individuals or businesses offering specialized services within the emirate. This license authorizes professionals to legally operate in fields such as consultancy, design, IT, education, marketing, healthcare, and more.

It is specifically designed for service-based activities where expertise, qualifications, or intellectual output is the core offering — rather than trading or manufacturing.

A diverse group of professionals engaging in a productive meeting around a conference table.

Who Needs a Professional License?

01.

Consultants (business, management, HR, marketing)

02.

Designers (graphic, interior, fashion)

03.

Lawyers and legal advisors

04.

Teachers, trainers, and education specialists

05.

IT and tech service providers

06.

Medical professionals (under special regulations)

Documents Required

To obtain a professional license in Dubai, you typically need:

  • Passport copies of the owner/partners
  • Passport-size photo (white background)
  • Entry visa or UAE residency copy
  • NOC from current sponsor (if applicable)
  • Degree certificates or professional qualification proof
  • Business activity plan or company profile

Benefits of a Professional Trade License in Dubai

100% Ownership Without Restrictions


With recent reforms in UAE business laws, most professional license activities now allow 100% foreign ownership — no longer requiring a UAE national sponsor. You retain full control over your operations and profits.

Global Reputation & Trust


Dubai’s licensing framework is internationally recognized. Holding a professional license here gives your business instant credibility, especially when dealing with regional clients, international partners, or global platforms.

Freelancer & Consultant Friendly


The license is ideal for solo professionals and freelancers—including creatives, IT experts, consultants, and trainers. Whether you're working remotely or building a small team, Dubai offers unmatched flexibility in how you operate.

No Office Requirement in Early Stages


You can launch your business using a flexi-desk or virtual office solution, minimizing overhead costs while keeping your license fully compliant. Ideal for startups, consultants, or remote-first businesses.

Regulatory Clarity & Legal Protection


With a professional license, your activity is clearly categorized and legally protected. This ensures you can operate confidently under well-defined rules — avoiding penalties or compliance issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, most professional license activities now allow for 100% foreign ownership. In some cases, a Local Service Agent (LSA) may be required for representation, but they do not hold any ownership or control over the business.

A professional license is for services and skills (e.g., consulting, design), while a commercial license is for buying, selling, and trading goods. The license type depends on the nature of your business activity.faster.

Yes, a registered office address is required — but this can be a flexi-desk or shared office. BDCS offers affordable workspace solutions with Ejari registration.

With the right documents, the process can be completed within 3 to 5 working days. BDCS ensures fast and smooth processing with DET and other authorities.

At Business Diaries, we offer complete support—from business planning and documentation to approvals, PRO services, and post-setup support—making your business launch fast, compliant, and stress-free.

Our commitment to excellence & client satisfaction drives us to deliver results that elevate brands and foster growth.

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