DED Professional License Fee in Dubai: Complete Cost Breakdown, Benefits, and Expert Support
Dubai is a preferred global destination for consultants, freelancers, and service-based businesses. This detailed guide explains the DED professional license fee, eligibility, renewal costs, and how DStechnoverse simplifies the licensing process.
What Is a DED Professional License?
A DED professional license is issued by the Dubai mainland authority for individuals and companies offering expertise-driven, service-based activities. Unlike commercial licenses, professional licenses focus on skill, qualification, and experience rather than trading physical goods.
This license allows 100% foreign ownership with the appointment of a Local Service Agent (LSA), who has no ownership, profit-sharing, or operational control.
Activities Covered Under a DED Professional License
- Management and business consultancy
- IT services and software consultancy
- Digital marketing and media services
- Accounting, auditing, and bookkeeping
- Education, training, and coaching services
- Legal consultancy (subject to approvals)
- Freelancers and independent professionals
DED Professional License Fee Structure
The DED professional license fee is made up of multiple government and operational components:
- Trade Name Reservation: AED 600 – AED 1,000
- Initial Approval Fee: AED 120 – AED 300
- Professional License Issuance: AED 7,500 – AED 10,000
- Local Service Agent Fee: AED 3,000 – AED 7,000 (annual)
- Office Space & Ejari Registration: AED 5,000 – AED 15,000+
Total estimated cost: AED 15,000 – AED 25,000 per year
Factors Affecting the Total DED Professional License Cost
- Type of professional activity selected
- Number of visas required
- Office location and size
- Additional regulatory approvals
- Local Service Agent agreement terms
DED Professional License Renewal Cost
A DED professional license must be renewed annually. Renewal costs are generally similar to the initial license fee, excluding one-time setup charges.
- License renewal fee
- Ejari renewal
- Local Service Agent annual fee
Delayed renewals may lead to penalties, fines, or suspension of business activities.
Benefits of a DED Professional License
- 100% foreign ownership
- Freedom to operate anywhere in Dubai mainland
- Eligibility to work with government and private clients
- No minimum capital requirement (for most activities)
- High credibility in the UAE business ecosystem
- Multiple visa eligibility
How DStechnoverse Helps With the DED Licensing Process
DStechnoverse provides end-to-end support for setting up and managing DED professional licenses in Dubai.
- Business activity consultation
- Trade name reservation and approvals
- DED professional license processing
- Local Service Agent arrangement
- Office space and Ejari coordination
- Visa assistance and post-licensing support
- Renewals and ongoing compliance management
Official Resources for Dubai Business Licensing
Frequently Asked Questions Before Applying for a DED Professional License
Expand each question below to understand key licensing considerations.
What type of professional activity are you planning to register in Dubai?
This determines eligibility, approvals, and total licensing cost.
Are you a freelancer, consultant, or registering a company?
Licensing requirements differ for individuals and corporate entities.
Do you require 100% foreign ownership?
Professional licenses allow full ownership with an LSA.
How many visas will you require?
Visa quotas affect office size and compliance requirements.
Do you already have a trade name?
Trade name approval is a mandatory initial step.
Will you need a Local Service Agent?
An LSA is mandatory but has no ownership rights.
Do you need help with office space or Ejari?
Ejari registration is required to activate and renew the license.
Will you operate only in Dubai or across the UAE?
Operational scope can affect approvals and documentation.
Do you need assistance with renewals and compliance?
Professional support prevents fines and business suspension.
Would you like expert help estimating your total license cost?
Consultation ensures accurate budgeting and faster setup.
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