Launch Your Service Business with a
Professional License in the UAE

Start your service business as a consultant, freelancer, or specialist with 100% ownership in the UAE.

What is a Professional License in UAE?

Rakez Freezone-Business Setup

A professional license in UAE is required for individuals and companies offering specialized services across various sectors, including consultancy, IT, legal services, healthcare, education, and freelancing. This license caters to businesses based on intellectual or professional skills rather than physical goods trading.

One of the key benefits of obtaining a professional license in the UAE is that it allows for 100% foreign ownership, with the appointment of a local service agent instead of a local sponsor. This structure gives foreign entrepreneurs full operational control while ensuring compliance with local regulations.

Benefits of a Professional License in the UAE

Obtaining a professional license in UAE offers a range of advantages for individuals and businesses providing specialized services. From full ownership rights to easy market access, here’s a quick overview of the key benefits:

100% Foreign
Ownership

Full ownership with a local service agent, no need for a local partner or sponsor.

Wide Range of
Services

Offer professional services such as consultancy, IT, education, healthcare, and freelancing.

Access to
Global Markets

Operate locally and internationally, leveraging UAE’s strategic location.

Cost-Effective
Setup

Affordable licensing fees, flexible office options, and reduced operational costs.

Tax
Benefits

0% personal income tax and 0% corporate income tax* in UAE free zones.

Visa
Sponsorship

Eligibility to sponsor UAE residence visas for owners, employees, and dependents.

* If business status is Qualifying Free Zone Person.

Who Needs a Professional License in the UAE?

A professional license in the UAE is ideal for individuals and companies offering specialized, skill-based services. RAKEZ also offers a dual license option that allows businesses to combine commercial and professional activities under one license. This dual license facilitates operations both in the free zone and on the UAE mainland. ​A professional license serves these categories:​
Consultants Activities Covered
Consultants Management, legal, HR, financial, IT, and marketing consultants
Healthcare Professionals Doctors, therapists, and medical consultants
Education and Training Providers Institutions and individuals offering educational services
Creative Service Providers Marketing, media, design, and content creation professionals
Engineers and Technical Specialists Professionals in engineering and technical fields
Freelancers Individuals offering services in writing, design, IT development, and similar areas

Applicants must have relevant qualifications and experience in their respective fields. At Aurum, our consultants can help by reviewing your documents, advising on eligibility, and managing the submission process to ensure a smooth and compliant application with RAKEZ.

Step-by-Step Process for Getting a Professional License in UAE

Setting up a professional service business in the UAE is a simple and structured process when guided by the right experts. Here’s how Aurum consultants can support you through each step to obtain your professional license in UAE:

Business Setup Process
Partner with Aurum

Start your journey by connecting with Aurum consultants. Our team will assess your business needs, explain your options clearly, and provide expert guidance to support you throughout the licensing process.

Choose Your Activity and Business Name

Select the professional service you wish to offer from RAKEZ’s approved list of activities. We also assist you in choosing and reserving a trade name that complies with UAE regulations and represents your business identity.

Submit Documents

Gather and submit all required documents, including passport copies, proof of qualifications, and a business plan if needed. The Aurum team reviews your paperwork thoroughly to ensure everything is complete and ready for submission.

Apply for the License

Our team manages the entire application process with RAKEZ. We ensure all forms are accurately completed, helping you secure fast approvals without unnecessary delays.

Receive Your License and Start Operating
Once your professional license is issued, Aurum will guide you through the final steps such as visa processing (if required) and setting up your business. You can then officially launch your service company in the UAE.

Your Common Questions Answered

What is the difference between a professional license and a commercial license in the UAE?

A professional license is issued to individuals and companies providing specialized services like consultancy, IT, legal, or healthcare. A commercial license, on the other hand, is intended for businesses involved in trading goods, retail, or e-commerce. Your choice depends on whether you offer services or products.

A wide range of service-based businesses are eligible, including consultancies, IT service providers, marketing agencies, and creative firms. The professional license suits businesses focused on offering expertise rather than selling goods.

Yes, RAKEZ allows you to combine trading and service activities under a single license, provided the selected activities are compatible and meet regulatory requirements.

You need a copy of your passport, completed application forms, and proof of qualifications or experience related to your chosen business activity. Additional documents may be required depending on the specific service.

Once all documents are submitted and payments are made, professional licenses are usually issued within a few working days, thanks to RAKEZ’s streamlined setup process.
Yes, RAKEZ permits 100% foreign ownership for professional licenses, giving investors full control of their business without the need for a local partner.

Absolutely. Freelancers offering services like writing, graphic design, IT development, and consultancy can apply for a professional license through RAKEZ.

RAKEZ offers flexible options, including shared workspaces, private offices, and virtual office packages to meet the needs of different service-based businesses.

Some of the key advantages include 100% ownership, low setup costs, fast processing times, full profit repatriation, and access to international markets.
Aurum consultants guide you through each step, from choosing the right business activity and preparing documents to submitting the application and securing your license.