Introduction: Start an HR Business in Dubai, UAE
Starting an HR Consultancy setup in Dubai, UAE is one of the most rewarding business opportunities for entrepreneurs and professionals in the human resources sector. As the UAE continues to attract international companies and skilled professionals, the need for expert HR guidance, recruitment support, and manpower services has grown rapidly. Establishing an HR consultancy license in Dubai, UAE allows you to provide professional solutions for hiring, training, and workforce management across various industries. If you are planning to start an HR business in Dubai, UAE, you can choose between a mainland or free zone setup depending on your target market.
The HR Consultancy License Process in Dubai is straightforward but requires compliance with local regulations, proper documentation, and choosing the right business structure. Entrepreneurs can also extend their services by obtaining a manpower recruitment agency license in Dubai, UAE, which enables them to connect local and international talent with businesses in need.
With its strategic location, supportive government policies, and diverse economy, Dubai offers the ideal platform to setup your business in Dubai UAE and build a profitable company in the HR and recruitment sector. Understanding the Cost of HR Consultancy License in Dubai, UAE will help you plan efficiently and start strong.
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What is an HR Consultancy License in Dubai, UAE?
An HR Consultancy License in Dubai, UAE is a professional business license that legally allows individuals or companies to offer human resources and manpower-related services to businesses across various industries. These services may include HR strategy development, employee training, performance management, recruitment, payroll management, and talent development.
In simple terms, obtaining an HR Consultancy License in Dubai, UAE means your company is officially authorized to provide advisory and consultancy services related to workforce management. It is essential for those planning to start an HR business in Dubai, UAE or offer professional guidance on HR policies, compliance, and employment regulations.
This license can be issued either on the mainland (through the Department of Economic Development – DED) or in a free zone, depending on your target clients and business model. Mainland licenses allow you to work directly with UAE companies, while free zone licenses are suitable for international or online consultancy operations.
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Why is an HR Consultancy License Required?
The HR Consultancy License is required to ensure that only qualified and compliant businesses operate within Dubai’s regulated market. Since HR consultancy and manpower recruitment agency in Dubai deal directly with people management, employment contracts, and workforce planning, the government mandates licensing to:
- Protect employee rights and ensure ethical recruitment practices.
- Maintain professional standards in human resource services.
- Regulate businesses involved in manpower and recruitment operations.
- Prevent illegal hiring or unregistered consultancy activities.
Having a valid HR Consultancy License in Dubai, UAE not only enhances your business credibility but also allows you to legally operate, expand services, and attract both local and international clients.
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Benefits of Starting an HR Consultancy Company in Dubai, UAE
Starting an HR Consultancy setup in Dubai, UAE offers numerous advantages, making it one of the most promising business opportunities for entrepreneurs and professionals in the human resources sector.
Below are the key benefits:
1. High Demand for HR Services
Dubai’s rapidly growing economy and influx of global businesses create a constant demand for professional HR services. Companies need expert assistance in recruitment, employee training, and compliance—making it the ideal time to start an HR business in Dubai, UAE.
2. 100% Ownership in Free Zones
Foreign investors can establish a Human Resources business setup in Dubai, UAE within various free zones and retain 100% ownership. This allows complete control over business operations and profits without requiring a local partner.
3. Strategic Business Location
Dubai’s position as a global hub connects businesses to the Middle East, Asia, and Europe. It’s the perfect place to build a manpower recruitment company in Dubai, UAE, serving both local and international clients.
4. Flexible Business Structures
Entrepreneurs can choose between a mainland license or free zone setup based on target clients. Mainland licenses allow you to work directly with UAE-based firms, while free zones are ideal for international consulting operations.
5. Easy Licensing and Setup Process
The HR Consultancy License Process in Dubai is straightforward with support from business setup consultants. You can obtain your license quickly with minimal paperwork and affordable costs.
6. Lucrative and Scalable Market
With growing corporate needs and government-backed initiatives for talent development, an HR consultancy license in Dubai, UAE opens doors to long-term growth and expansion across multiple industries.
7. Credibility and Legal Protection
Holding a valid license ensures that your company operates legally and builds trust with clients. It also protects your business under UAE’s commercial laws, ensuring compliance and professionalism in operations.
By obtaining the Cost of HR Consultancy License in Dubai, UAE, investors can plan effectively and setup a profitable company in Dubai that provides sustainable HR and recruitment solutions to the region’s booming workforce market.
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Eligibility Criteria for Obtaining an HR Consultancy License in Dubai, UAE
Starting an HR Consultancy setup in Dubai, UAE requires meeting certain eligibility requirements set by the Department of Economic Development (DED) or the respective Free Zone Authority. These criteria ensure that only qualified professionals and legitimate companies engage in human resource consultancy and manpower recruitment agency in Dubai activities.
Below are the key eligibility requirements:
1. Educational Qualifications
The applicant or business owner should hold at least a bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field. Some authorities may also accept equivalent qualifications backed by relevant industry experience.
2. Professional Experience
Applicants are generally expected to have prior experience in HR or recruitment—usually two to five years. This ensures the individual has adequate knowledge of HR policies, employee management, and workforce development.
3. Business Structure Selection
You must choose a suitable business structure such as a Limited Liability Company (LLC), Sole Proprietorship, or Civil Company depending on your ownership preferences and client base. Mainland setups are ideal for local clients, while free zone setups suit international HR operations.
4. Office Space Requirement
To obtain an HR consultancy license in Dubai, UAE, the business must have a registered office address. Mainland companies need an Ejari (tenancy contract), while free zones may offer flexi-desks or virtual offices.
5. Approvals from Relevant Authorities
If your HR consultancy also provides manpower recruitment or outsourcing services, additional approval from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) may be required to ensure compliance with UAE labour laws.
6. Clean Legal Record
The applicant must have a clean criminal record and submit a certificate of good conduct, confirming eligibility to operate an HR consultancy or manpower recruitment company in Dubai, UAE.
7. Financial Capability
You should demonstrate financial stability to manage business operations, including license fees, visa costs, and office setup expenses. The Cost of HR Consultancy License in Dubai, UAE may vary based on your chosen jurisdiction.
Meeting these criteria ensures a smooth and compliant HR Consultancy License Process in Dubai, allowing you to setup your business in Dubai UAE and build a trusted, profitable company in the HR and recruitment sector.
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Step-by-Step Process to Get an HR Consultancy License in Dubai, UAE
Setting up an HR Consultancy company in Dubai, UAE is a straightforward process when you understand the steps involved. Below is a detailed guide to help you obtain your HR consultancy license in Dubai, UAE smoothly and start your operations with confidence.
Step 1: Choose the Jurisdiction – Mainland or Free Zone
Decide whether you want to establish your HR Consultancy setup in Dubai, UAE on the mainland or in a free zone.
- Mainland setup allows you to work directly with local clients and government projects.
- Free zone setup provides 100% foreign ownership and simplified company registration for international operations.
Step 2: Define Your Business Activities
Determine the exact services you plan to offer—such as HR strategy, training, payroll management, or recruitment. If you also plan to operate as a manpower recruitment agency in Dubai, additional approval from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) will be required.
Step 3: Select a Business Structure and Trade Name
Choose a suitable legal structure—such as an LLC, Sole Proprietorship, or Free Zone Company—and reserve a unique trade name that complies with UAE naming regulations.
Step 4: Meet Eligibility Requirements
Ensure that the business owner or manager has the required educational qualifications and HR experience. Some authorities may request relevant degrees or professional background verification for license approval.
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Step 5: Secure Office Space
Every Human Resources business setup in Dubai, UAE must have a registered office address. Mainland companies require an Ejari (tenancy contract), while free zones often offer flexible desk or shared office facilities.
Step 6: Prepare and Submit Required Documents
Prepare essential documents such as:
- Passport copies + passport photos (owners and key personnel)
- Educational certificates and CVs (founders / HR managers)
- Trade name reservation proof
- Tenancy contract (Ejari) or free-zone office agreement
- Bank reference / proof of funds (especially for recruitment)
- Police clearance / certificate of good conduct (for MOHRE)
- Memorandum/Articles of Association or shareholder agreement (if LLC)
- Authorities may request notarized/transalted copies.
Step 7: Obtain Initial Approval and Pay Fees
After the document review, you’ll receive initial approval to proceed. Pay the applicable government and license fees as per your chosen jurisdiction.
Step 8: Get MOHRE Approval (if applicable)
If your business involves recruitment or manpower supply, you must apply for additional approval from MOHRE to operate legally as a manpower recruitment agency license in Dubai, UAE.
Step 9: Receive Your HR Consultancy License
Once all approvals are completed and payments are made, the Department of Economic Development (DED) or free zone authority will issue your HR consultancy license in Dubai, UAE.
Step 10: Complete Post-License Requirements
After obtaining the license, you can:
- Open a corporate bank account
- Apply for employee and investor visas
- Register for corporate tax (if applicable)
- Begin marketing and operations
The entire HR Consultancy License Process in Dubai usually takes between 2 to 6 weeks, depending on the type of license and approvals required. Understanding the Cost of HR Consultancy License in Dubai, UAE beforehand helps you plan your budget efficiently and setup your business in Dubai UAE to operate successfully and build a profitable company in the HR and recruitment sector.
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Important regulatory cautions (must-knows)
- Recruitment activities are separately regulated by MOHRE — don’t assume a consultancy license automatically allows hiring/placement. MOHRE introduced stricter conditions in 2025 (criminal-record checks, bank guarantees, operational standards). Failure to comply can lead to closures or fines.
- If you want to serve UAE on-shore clients, confirm whether your free-zone license permits onshore contracting or if you need a mainland presence/agent.
What Activities Can You Perform with an HR Consultancy License in Dubai, UAE?
Obtaining an HR Consultancy License in Dubai, UAE gives you the legal authority to offer a wide range of human resource and business advisory services to local and international clients. This license allows you to provide strategic HR solutions, recruitment assistance, and workforce development services across various industries. However, it is important to understand the exact activities permitted under this license to remain compliant with UAE business laws.
Here are the primary activities you can perform with an HR Consultancy setup in Dubai, UAE:
- Recruitment and staffing services
- Executive search and headhunting
- Employee training and development
- HR policy creation and management
- Payroll management services
- Performance evaluation and management
- Workforce planning and strategy
- Employee onboarding and orientation
- Career counseling and guidance
- Outsourced HR management
- Compensation and benefits planning
- Employee relations and conflict resolution
- Talent acquisition and retention consulting
- Organizational restructuring and development
- Manpower supply consulting
By obtaining an HR consultancy license in Dubai, UAE, investors can operate legally, build a strong client base, and provide value-added HR solutions across sectors. For entrepreneurs planning to start an HR business in Dubai, UAE, this license is essential to ensure credibility, compliance, and long-term growth in the competitive human resources market.
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Cost for HR Consultancy business setup in Dubai, UAE
Cost of HR Consultancy License in Dubai, UAE
Dubai Mainland License
| License Type | Starting Cost (AED) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Professional License | AED 10,405 | Suitable for service-based businesses like consultancy |
UAE Free Zone License
| Free Zone | License Cost (AED) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| ANC | AED 4,888 | Cheapest and fastest license option |
| SRTIP | AED 5,500 | Ideal for technology and innovation-focused businesses |
| SHAMS | AED 5,750 | Suitable for media, creative industries, and digital content businesses |
| SPC | AED 5,750 | Perfect for startups across various industries |
| RAKEZ | AED 6,000 | Known for affordable, flexible packages suitable for a wide range of businesses |
| Meydan | AED 12,500 | Premium free zone for entrepreneurs and established businesses |
| IFZA | AED 12,900 | Streamlined setup processes for multiple business activities |
Mainland vs Freezone Company Setup in UAE: Cost Comparison
Other Estimated Costs for HR Consultancy Business Setup
| Particulars | Estimated Cost (AED) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Office Rent / Flexi Desk | 10,000 – 30,000 | Depends on mainland or free zone setup |
| Ejari Tenancy Contract | 5,000 – 7,000 | Required for mainland license |
| Visa Costs | 3,500 – 7,500 per visa | Owner and employee visas |
| Immigration & Work Permit Fees | 2,000 – 3,500 | MOHRE and GDRFA charges |
| Bank Account Opening Fees | 2,000 – 3,000 | Corporate account setup |
| Legal Documentation / Attestation | 1,500 – 3,000 | Certificate notarization, degree attestation, translations |
| Insurance (optional) | 1,500 – 4,000 | For employees and business operations |
| Marketing & Branding | 3,000 – 10,000 | Website, social media, advertising |
| Miscellaneous Expenses | 2,000 – 5,000 | Stationery, software, HR tools |
Estimated Total Setup Cost:
- Free Zone License: AED 25,000 – 50,000 (depending on free zone and office/visa choices)
- Mainland License: AED 30,000 – 60,000 (depending on office, visas, and additional approvals)
Conclusion
Starting an HR Consultancy setup in Dubai, UAE presents a tremendous opportunity for professionals and entrepreneurs looking to tap into the region’s rapidly growing business environment. With Dubai’s dynamic economy, the demand for skilled human resource services—including recruitment, training, payroll management, and workforce advisory—is constantly on the rise. Obtaining an HR consultancy license in Dubai, UAE ensures that your business operates legally and maintains credibility with clients, while also opening doors to expand services across local and international markets.
The process to start an HR business in Dubai, UAE is structured but requires careful planning. Choosing between a mainland or free zone setup is a critical step, as it determines your market access, ownership structure, and regulatory obligations. The HR Consultancy License Process in Dubai involves meeting eligibility criteria, preparing essential documents, securing office space, and obtaining approvals from the relevant authorities. Additionally, if your business includes manpower recruitment, special authorization from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) is mandatory.
Investors and business owners should also consider other aspects of the setup, including office rent, visa costs, legal documentation, insurance, and marketing. Understanding the Cost of HR Consultancy License in Dubai, UAE and associated expenses helps in efficient budget planning, ensuring a smooth and successful launch. Dubai’s supportive business ecosystem, strategic location, and diverse corporate landscape make it an ideal hub to setup your business in Dubai UAE and establish a profitable company in the HR sector.
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How Infibiz Can Help You
Infibiz is a trusted business setup consultancy specializing in HR Consultancy License in Dubai, UAE and related professional licenses. We guide entrepreneurs and professionals through every step of the HR Consultancy License Process in Dubai, ensuring a smooth, hassle-free experience. Our team helps you select the right jurisdiction—mainland or free zone—based on your business goals, assists in preparing and submitting all required documentation, and manages approvals from the relevant authorities, including MOHRE for manpower-related activities.
Book Free Consultation with Infibiz’s Experts.
We also provide end-to-end support for office leasing, visa processing, bank account setup, and compliance, helping you setup your business in Dubai UAE quickly and efficiently. With our expertise, you can minimize delays, reduce costs, and focus on building a profitable HR consultancy company in Dubai. Partnering with Infibiz ensures you enter the market with confidence, credibility, and a strong foundation for long-term growth in the human resources sector.
