To get a management consultancy license in the UAE, you will need to choose between a free zone or the mainland, reserve a trade name, get initial approval for your business idea, and apply for a trade license.Â
A management consultancy business in the UAE offers entrepreneurs 100% ownership, ease of set up, a diverse customer base, low corporate tax rate, and no personal income tax.
Steps to Get a Management Consultancy License in the UAE
These are the steps to get a management consultancy license in the UAE:Â
1. Decide Between Free Zone and Mainland
Free zones offer faster set up times, affordable license packages, full profit repatriation, and support for startups and small businesses. Mainland offers direct access to UAE clients and the eligibility to participate in government projects.Â
Free zones are regulated by their own independent authorities while the Department of Economic Development in every Emirate handles mainland licenses. Popular free zones for management consultancies include SRTIP, Meydan Free Zone, and IFZA. Â
2. Reserve a Trade Name
The trade name has to accurately reflect your business activity. You can submit up to three name options in English (with literal Arabic translation) to the relevant authority. Â
3. Get Initial Approval
Every business has to be approved by the regulatory authority before you can apply for a trade license. You will need to submit your business plan, source of funds, and any relevant professional qualifications.Â
4. Apply for a License
Management consultancies need a professional trade license to operate. Free zones process trade licenses within a week. Mainland licenses can take up to 2 weeks to be approved. Working with a local business setup consultant can make the process easier.Â
5. Get a Visa
Once your license has been issued, the authority will process your visa. If you choose to get a management consultancy license in a free zone, the number of visas you can get depends on your chosen package. The number of mainland visas allotted to a license is determined by the office space.Â
6. Open a Bank Account
A corporate bank account is mandatory for a management consultancy business. Opening a bank account for a free zone license is easier with a local consultant. Each bank has their own KYC requirements, and a seasoned consultant (like SRTIP Accelerator) can handle the entire process.Â
Cost of a Management Consultancy License in the UAE
A management consultancy license can cost between AED 5,500 to AED 20,000. The Emirate and jurisdiction you choose will determine the actual cost. A local business setup consultant can give you the exact price. Or, you can use our cost calculator to get an instant estimate.Â
The main factors that affect the license cost are:Â
- Jurisdiction (mainland vs free zone)
- Emirate (Sharjah, Dubai, Ajman, Abu Dhabi, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah, Umm Al Quwain)Â
- Office requirements
- Number of visasÂ
Free zones licenses are cheaper than the mainland, and Sharjah, Ajman, RAK, and UAQ offer more affordable licenses.Â
SRTIP Accelerator offers a zero-visa SRTIP consultancy license for AED 5,500. We handle the entire process, including getting initial approval, license application, visa processing, and bank account support.Â
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Documents Required to Apply For a Management Consultancy License
You will need to submit passport copies of all the shareholders, initial approval certificate, trade name reservation, source of funds, business plan, educational and professional qualifications, and a copy of your office lease (if needed).
Get a Management Consultancy License With SRTIP Accelerator
SRTIP Accelerator helps entrepreneurs and investors get a management consultancy license, supporting them throughout the process. Our consultants have over a decade of experience, and can handle everything from the initial application to helping you open a bank account for your business. Get in touch for a free consultation!
