Consulting is one of the most popular business activities for professionals moving to Dubai. Whether you're in management consulting, IT consulting, HR, or any other advisory field, a Dubai base gives you access to the entire Gulf market.
Best Free Zones for Consultants
IFZA offers the best value: Dubai address, fast setup, consulting licenses from AED 5,750. DMCC provides prestige and strong banking for established consultants. DIC (Dubai Internet City) is ideal for IT/tech consulting. Dubai South offers affordable options near the airport. Shams is the budget choice if a Dubai address isn't essential.
License & Activities
Most consulting activities fall under 'service' licenses. Common activities include: Management Consulting, Business Consulting, IT Consulting, Marketing Consulting, HR Consulting, Financial Consulting (non-regulated), and Education/Training Consulting. You can usually add 2-5 activities per license.
Cost Overview
A basic consulting license starts from AED 5,750 (IFZA) to AED 20,000+ (DIC, DIFC). Add AED 3,500-5,000 for one visa, AED 3,000-8,000 for office/desk. Total first-year: AED 12,000-30,000 depending on zone. Annual renewal is typically 70-90% of the first year.
Relevant Free Zones
Hub71
abu dhabi
Setup: Application-based, 4-8 weeks
UAQ FTZ
umm al-quwain
Setup: 2-3 business days
Creative City
fujairah
Setup: 2-3 business days
Ajman Media City
ajman
Setup: 2-3 business days
IFZA
dubai
Setup: 1-2 business days
Shams
sharjah
Setup: 1-2 business days
SPC
sharjah
Setup: 3-5 business days
AFZA
ajman
Setup: 2-3 business days
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I consult for UAE mainland companies from a free zone?
Yes, you can provide consulting services to mainland and international clients from a free zone. The restriction is on physical goods trading, not services. Most consultants operate from free zones without issues.
Do I need a specific qualification to get a consulting license?
Most free zones don't require specific qualifications for general consulting activities. However, regulated activities like financial advisory, legal consulting, or healthcare consulting may require professional credentials and additional approvals.
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