
Setting up a Mainland Professional Sole Establishment or Civil Company in UAE is a popular choice for Pakistani professionals and service providers who want to offer consultancy or expert services in Dubai and other Emirates. These businesses are built around the qualifications, skills and professional experience of the owners so high service standards across UAE market.
A professional company in UAE is defined as an entity where operations rely on the intellectual efforts and academic background of its founders. Examples are law firms, IT consultancies, management advisors, creative studios and accounting services. Since these businesses are based on expertise, UAE authorities require shareholders to submit valid educational certificates during the setup process.
To maintain the country’s professional standards, proper licensing and regulatory compliance is mandatory. Pakistani entrepreneurs must follow the formal procedures set by the Department of Economic Development (DED) and other relevant bodies to establish a professional company in Dubai or other Emirates.
Thanks to UAE’s business friendly policies and global presence, it continues to attract skilled professionals and foreign investors. Many Pakistani consultancy firms and multinational service providers have already expanded their operations in UAE to serve a growing and diverse client base across the Middle East, Africa and beyond.
UAE has clearly defined rules for professional companies. These rules apply to Pakistani professionals looking to set up consultancy or service based businesses in Dubai or other Emirates.
Pakistani entrepreneurs can only apply for specific professional trade licenses based on their qualifications and the services they want to offer.
UAE government monitors all marketing and promotional materials including websites and advertisements to ensure compliance with cultural values and professional ethics.
Some professional licenses require additional exams or certifications especially in sectors like legal, healthcare, education or consultancy.
These companies can be 100% owned by expatriates including Pakistani nationals.
A UAE national is required as a Local Service Agent (LSA) but they don’t hold any shares or ownership in the company.
LSA is paid a fixed annual service fee and has no involvement in business decisions or profit sharing.
There is no minimum share capital requirement making it a cost effective option for small to medium sized Pakistani startups and service providers.
Shareholders need to submit their academic degrees, certificates and relevant work experience to meet the eligibility criteria.
If there are multiple shareholders the company will be classified as a Civil Company.
Renting an office or shop is mandatory; however in Dubai some activities now allow setup via desk facilities (Sustainability Centers) for flexibility.
Common professional license categories include IT consultancy, management consultancy, legal services, accountancy, education and administrative support. For consultancy based licenses passing a DED approved exam is a mandatory requirement.
Shareholders in professional companies are eligible for a 3 year UAE residence visa and can also sponsor their spouse, children and parents subject to visa and document approval. There is no cap on employee hiring for such companies provided labour law compliance and approvals are met.