Project Management License in Dubai

Benefits of obtaining a project management license

Professional recognition and credibility

Having a project management services license in Dubai establishes your business as credible and reliable. Clients and stakeholders recognize licensed professionals as trustworthy, which increases your chances of securing high-value contracts and long-term partnerships.

Expanding career opportunities across the UAE

Licensed project managers gain access to diverse industries, including real estate, IT, and events. Dubai’s thriving economy creates a constant demand for qualified professionals, allowing you to explore various career paths and build a strong professional network.

Access to exclusive resources and networking events

Many free zones and industry organizations provide exclusive benefits to licensed businesses, such as access to specialized training, workshops, and networking events. These resources can enhance your skills, broaden your connections, and open doors to new opportunities.

Improved success rates in project delivery

Licensed professionals are equipped with the knowledge and tools needed for efficient project execution. This results in higher client satisfaction, repeat business, and a stronger reputation in the industry.

Eligibility criteria for licensing in Dubai

Educational requirements and certifications

For standard project management consultancy licenses, Dubai authorities usually do not impose a mandatory specific university degree or PMP / PRINCE2 certification in the legal licensing rules. However, having a relevant bachelor’s degree and globally recognised certifications like PMP or PRINCE2 significantly strengthens your profile in the eyes of clients, partners and banks.

Minimum professional experience

Authorities primarily check whether your documents match the chosen business activity and ownership rules, and they generally do not ask you to prove a strict minimum number of years of project management experience. In practice, having 3–5 years of solid experience and a strong CV makes it easier to win contracts, pass bank KYC and compete for serious projects, even if it is not an explicit licensing requirement.

Key skills and knowledge base

When planning your setup, focus on building strong leadership, communication and problem-solving skills and on mastering standard project management tools such as Microsoft Project, Primavera or Jira – these are not legal requirements but market expectations for serious project managers.

Step-by-step guide to obtaining a project management license

Starting a project management business in Dubai requires following a structured process to ensure compliance with the emirate’s regulations. Below is a detailed guide divided into key stages to help you obtain a project management license efficiently.

Preliminary research and document preparation

Before beginning the formal application process, conduct thorough research and prepare the necessary documents.

1. Select your business jurisdiction

Dubai offers two main jurisdictions:

• Mainland: Broad operational freedom across the UAE.
• Free zones: Tax-free benefits but restricted operations within the free zone. 

2. Choose your business structure

Decide on a legal structure that aligns with your goals. Common options include:

• Sole Proprietorship: Single-owner business.
• Limited Liability Company (LLC): Multiple shareholders; most popular in Dubai.
• Civil Company: For professional partnerships like consulting firms.
• Free Zone Company: For businesses registered in free zones. 

3. Prepare the required documents

Collect essential documents, including:

• Passport copies of all shareholders
• Educational certificates
• Proof of professional experience
• A detailed business plan detailing project management services

4. Research regulations and requirements

Familiarize yourself with the laws and regulations specific to project management licenses in your chosen jurisdiction, including operational scope, capital requirements, and permissible activities.

Submission of application and required documents

Once your documents are ready, submit them along with your application to the relevant authority, which is either the DED (Department of Economic Development) for mainland entities or the authorities of the chosen free zone. Ensure that all documents are complete and accurate, as missing paperwork can delay the process or result in rejection.

Payment of licensing fees

Licensing fees vary depending on the authority and the type of license. These costs typically cover application processing, trade name registration, and license issuance.

Exact costs change regularly and vary between authorities, so it is always best to check the latest fee schedule and packages on the chosen free zone or DET/Department of Economy and Tourism website, or to use an updated cost calculator. 

Free zones usually structure project management under their general service license or professional license categories and sell them as packages that combine the licence with an establishment card, office or flexi-desk and a certain number of visas. There is no single fixed federal fee for a “project management licence” – each authority sets its own pricing and promotions.
 

Examination and assessment process

Standard project management consultancy licenses normally do not include government exams, but in construction-related or engineering activities you may need additional technical approvals or qualified engineers/consultants on staff. Authorities review your documents to ensure that your chosen project management activities match the license type and that you meet any sector-specific conditions.

1. Review of business activities

Authorities ensure that the listed activities align with the license type. For project management:

• Activities should include consulting, planning, and project oversight.
• Exclude restricted activities such as financial or medical services unless authorized. 

2. Document verification

Among the commonly scrutinized documents are:

• Shareholder agreements.
• Educational certificates.
• Proof of professional experience.
• Lease contract.
• MOA (for LLCs). 

3. Background checks

A security clearance may be required for foreign nationals.

Final approval and license issuance

Once the examination process is complete, you will receive your project management license.

1. Final approval

The DED or the free zone authority will issue an approval letter once all assessments are successfully passed.

2. License issuance

After receiving the final approval, pay the remaining fees to obtain your license and wait for it to be issued by the corresponding authorities. Many free zones can issue a project management service license within a few working days and mainland DET setups are often completed within about 7–10 business days. However, processing time may increase if your chosen activity requires extra approvals, if the trade name changes or if additional KYC and security checks are needed.

3. Post-license steps

• Apply for visas. Owners and employees require residency visas, which can be processed through your licensing authority.
• Open a corporate bank account. Present your license and other supporting documents to the bank.

Maintaining and renewing your license

Continuing professional development (CPD) requirements

For standard project management trade licences in Dubai there is no formal CPD reporting requirement similar to what applies to doctors, lawyers or auditors. Nevertheless, continuous professional development through courses, certifications and industry events is strongly recommended to stay competitive and to meet the expectations of corporate and government clients.

Renewal deadlines and procedures

In most cases, Dubai trade licences for project management and other service activities are issued for one year and renewed annually. Some authorities may allow you to renew for up to two or three years in one go, but the one-year cycle remains the standard and the safest assumption when planning your budget.

Consequences of non-compliance or expired licenses

Operating without a valid license can result in fines, suspension of business activities, or legal action. Regularly monitor your license status to avoid disruptions. Operating without a valid renewed licence can lead not only to fines and suspension of activities but also to immigration and banking issues, for example visa blocks for employees linked to the licence and bank account review or closure. Authorities usually offer a short grace period (often around 30 days in Dubai) after expiry, but it is best to renew in advance to avoid disruptions.

How we can assist in your licensing journey

Tailored support for application processes

Our team provides end-to-end support, from initial consultation to application submission. We ensure that your documentation is accurate and your application process is seamless.

Assistance with exam preparation and documentation

We offer resources, training, and guidance to help you meet all licensing requirements, including passing assessments and preparing detailed business plans.

Guidance on compliance and renewal

Stay compliant with Dubai’s regulations through our ongoing support. We provide renewal reminders and updates on changes in licensing requirements.