How to Get an Architectural & Engineering Consultancy Business License in Dubai

Dubai's construction and infrastructure sector continues to expand at a remarkable pace, driven by mega-projects, Expo legacy developments, and a government commitment to smart city planning. For architects, engineers, and technical consultants looking to tap into this growth, obtaining an Architectural & Engineering Consultancy Business License in Dubai is the essential first step.

This guide covers everything you need to know about Activity Code 7110 under the Services category, with a particular focus on setting up at Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone, one of the UAE's most strategically positioned business destinations.

What the Licence Covers

The Architectural & Engineering Consultancy Business Licence (Activity Code 7110) authorises a wide range of professional and technical services, including:

• Architectural design and urban planning consultancy

• Civil, structural, mechanical, and electrical engineering consultancy

• Project management and technical advisory services

• Environmental and geotechnical engineering consultancy

• Building information modelling (BIM) and design technology services

• Related technical consultancy activities across construction disciplines

This is a Services category licence, meaning the business delivers expertise and advisory output rather than physical goods. It is ideally suited to sole practitioners, boutique consultancies, and multinational engineering firms establishing a regional hub.

Why Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone

Dubai South is home to Al Maktoum International Airport and the Expo City district, making it one of the most connected logistics and business corridors in the Middle East. For engineering and architectural consultancies, proximity to large-scale infrastructure and aviation projects creates immediate commercial opportunity.

Key advantages of setting up at Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone include:

• 100% foreign ownership permitted

• Zero corporate and personal income tax

• Full repatriation of profits and capital

• Streamlined regulatory environment with dedicated free zone authority support

• Access to a growing ecosystem of construction, logistics, and technology businesses

Key Stats at a Glance

• Activity Code: 7110 | Category: Services | Licence Type: Business Licence

• UAE construction sector value: over USD 130 billion in active projects

• Foreign ownership: 100% permitted in Dubai South Free Zone

• Corporate tax: 0% for qualifying free zone entities

• Typical setup timeline: 2 to 4 weeks from document submission

• Visa eligibility: multiple employee and investor visas available

Setup Steps and Licensing Requirements

Step-by-Step Process

1. Choose your business activity: Confirm that Activity Code 7110 aligns with your intended services.

2. Select a legal structure: Free zone limited liability company (FZ-LLC) is the most common choice for consultancies.

3. Submit your application: Provide passport copies, a business plan, and shareholder details to the Dubai South authority.

4. Obtain initial approval: The free zone authority reviews and issues preliminary approval.

5. Choose your office or flexi-desk: Select a physical office, co-working space, or virtual office package depending on your visa and operational needs.

6. Pay licence fees and receive your licence: Finalise payment and collect your Business Licence.

7. Apply for visas: Investor and employee visas are processed through the free zone authority.

Compliance Requirements

Architectural and engineering consultancies operating in Dubai may also need to register with the Dubai Municipality or the relevant emirate-level engineering authority if they wish to sign off on projects within the UAE. Professional qualification verification is typically required for licensed engineers and architects practising locally.

Costs to Expect

Total first-year costs typically range from AED 25,000 to AED 50,000 depending on office type and visa requirements. Margins for engineering consultancies can be strong, with project-based fees often ranging from 3% to 8% of total construction value.

Who This Licence Suits

This licence is well-matched to:

• Independent architects and engineers seeking a UAE base

• International consultancy firms opening a regional office

• Technical advisory businesses serving GCC infrastructure clients

• BIM specialists and construction technology consultants

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does an Architectural & Engineering Consultancy licence cost in Dubai?

Licence fees start from approximately AED 12,500 per year at Dubai South. Total first-year setup costs, including registration, office space, and one investor visa, typically fall between AED 25,000 and AED 50,000.

Can a foreign national own 100% of the business?

Yes. Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone permits 100% foreign ownership with no requirement for a local UAE sponsor or partner.

What approvals are needed beyond the free zone licence?

If you intend to practise engineering or architecture on UAE projects, you may need additional registration with Dubai Municipality or the relevant emirate engineering authority. The free zone licence alone covers consultancy and advisory services.

How long does the setup process take?

From document submission to licence issuance, the process typically takes 2 to 4 weeks, provided all documents are in order.

What profit margins can engineering consultancies expect?

Consultancy fees for architectural and engineering services in the UAE commonly range from 3% to 8% of total project construction value, with higher margins achievable for specialist technical advisory work.

Can the business serve clients outside the UAE?

Yes. Free zone companies can provide consultancy services to clients across the GCC and internationally, making Dubai South an effective hub for regional and global operations.

Are there facility requirements for this licence?

A registered address within the free zone is required. This can be fulfilled through a flexi-desk, co-working arrangement, or a dedicated office unit. The appropriate option depends on your visa allocation needs.

Is this licence suitable for a one-person consultancy?

Yes. A sole practitioner can obtain this licence as a free zone establishment (FZE) with a single shareholder, making it accessible for individual professionals establishing their own practice.

Conclusion

Dubai's infrastructure ambitions, tax-friendly environment, and strategic location make it one of the most attractive destinations in the world for architectural and engineering consultancies. Setting up under Activity Code 7110 at Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone gives you full ownership, a credible business address, and direct access to one of the region's most active project markets.

If you are ready to establish your consultancy in Dubai, speak with a registered business setup adviser to begin your application and ensure full compliance from day one.

References

• Dubai South Official Website

• Dubai Municipality - Engineering and Planning

• UAE Government Portal - Setting Up in a Free Zone

• UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation

• UAE Ministry of Economy