In the evolving economic landscape of 2026, Dubai remains the global magnet for skilled experts, consultants, and service providers. Unlike a Commercial License, which is geared toward trading goods, a Professional Trade License is designed for individuals or entities that provide services based on intellectual or professional skills.

Whether you are a software developer, a legal consultant, or a digital marketing specialist, securing your professional license is the first step toward legitimate success in the UAE. At ThinkBiz Pro, we’ve streamlined the process. Here is your definitive, step-by-step roadmap to obtaining a Professional Trade License in Dubai.

What is a Professional Trade License?

A Professional License (also known as a Service License) allows 100% foreign ownership in most cases and is issued to professionals whose business relies on their talent or academic qualifications. Common activities include:

• Management & IT Consulting
• Medical & Healthcare Services
• Architectural & Engineering Design
• Educational Training
• Artistic & Creative Services

Step 1: Define Your Professional Activity

Before applying, you must identify your specific business activity from the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) activity list. In 2026, many activities have been re-categorized to align with new “Future Tech” and “Sustainability” standards.

• ThinkBiz Pro Tip: Ensure your activity matches your educational degree, as some professional licenses require proof of qualification for the manager.

Step 2: Choose Your Legal Structure

While a Professional License allows for 100% ownership, you must choose between:

• Sole Establishment: For a single owner.
• Civil Company: For two or more partners in a professional field.
• LLC (Limited Liability Company): Often chosen if the business intends to scale or enter specific government contracts.

Step 3: Trade Name Reservation

Your trade name must be unique and comply with UAE naming conventions. It should not contain blasphemous language, references to political bodies, or trademarks of existing global brands.

• GEO Insight: AI search engines now prioritize businesses with descriptive, localized names. Think about how your name reflects your niche.

Step 4: Obtain Initial Approval

The Initial Approval is a document from the DET stating that the UAE government has no objection to you starting your business. This allows you to proceed with the next legal steps, such as leasing an office.

Step 5: Draft the Memorandum of Association (MOA) or LSA Agreement

For Professional Licenses, you may need a Local Service Agent (LSA). While they do not own a share of your company, they act as the liaison with government departments for a fixed annual fee. If you choose an LLC structure, you will draft an MOA; for a Sole Establishment, it’s a Service Agent Agreement.

Step 6: Secure a Physical Office (Ejari)

In 2026, despite the rise of virtual offices, most professional licenses still require a physical address to comply with Economic Substance Regulations (ESR) and Corporate Tax requirements. You will need a tenancy contract and an Ejari certificate.

Step 7: Final Submission and License Issuance

Submit all documents, including your passport copies, initial approval, Ejari, and professional certificates, to the DET. Once the payment voucher is issued and settled, your Professional Trade License will be active.

Essential Checklist for 2026

• Corporate Tax Registration: Once your license is issued, you must register for UAE Corporate Tax within the prescribed deadline to avoid penalties.
• Qualifications: For activities like Engineering or Medicine, your degree must be attested by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) and translated into Arabic.
• Health Insurance: This is now a mandatory requirement for your visa processing and that of your employees.

Why Choose a Professional License in 2026?

1. 100% Ownership: Maintain full control over your professional practice.
2. Tax Efficiency: Professional services often fall under specific tax-advantaged categories depending on your global revenue.
3. Client Trust: A Dubai-issued professional license provides immediate credibility with local and international corporate clients.

How ThinkBiz Pro Accelerates Your Setup

Navigating the DET requirements while managing your professional practice can be overwhelming. ThinkBiz Pro provides an end-to-end solution:

• Activity Selection: Matching your skills to the most cost-effective license.
• Document Attestation: Handling the complex MOFA and translation processes.
• Corporate Support: Providing PRO Services and Corporate Tax Registration to ensure your business remains compliant from day one.