What is a Professional License?
A professional license is issued to individual entrepreneurs or corporations engaging in professional services or activities. This includes artisans, service providers, craftsmen, designers, and professionals whose work relies on intellectual expertise and talent.
For businesses owned by a single individual, the license is issued as a sole proprietorship. However, if multiple individuals own the business, it is classified as a civil corporation.
Key Ownership Conditions:
- 100% ownership is granted to foreign nationals, allowing them to operate as sole proprietors.
- A local Emirati service agent (Wakeel e Khidmat) is required.
- The agent has no equity in the business and does not interfere in operations but assists with licensing and legal formalities.
Activities Covered Under a Professional License
A professional license in Sharjah applies to various fields, including:
- Business Consulting
- Advertising & Marketing
- Management Consultancy
- Auditing, Accounting & Financial Advisory
- Education & Teaching
- General Consultancy Services
- Medical & Healthcare Services
- Legal Services (Lawyers & Legal Advisors)
- Web Design & IT Services
- Architectural Consultancy
- Entertainment & Performing Arts
Advantages of a Professional License
- 100% foreign ownership with the appointment of a local service agent
- Cost-effective licensing options
- Diverse range of business activities covered
- Flexible market opportunities in various industries
Steps to Obtain a Professional License
- Determine Business Activities – Clearly define the nature of services you intend to offer.
- Appoint a Local Service Agent – Our business consultants will assist in finding a reliable local service agent and handle legal paperwork.
- Obtain Initial Approval – Submit an application to the Sharjah Economic Department and reserve a trading name.
- Legal Agreement Notarization –
- A Local Service Agreement must be notarized by a public notary.
- If registering a civil company, an additional Civil Agreement must be attested.
- Attend Court Formalities – Investors or business partners must appear before the Registrar to complete the process.
- Tenancy Contract Approval – Obtain approval for a commercial lease in compliance with Sharjah Municipality regulations.
- Final Submission & Payment – Submit all required documents to the Sharjah Economic Department, make the necessary payments, and collect the license.
- Receive Payment Voucher – This serves as proof of payment and license issuance.
Required Documents for a Professional License
- Completed application form
- Copies of passports (owners/partners)
- Copies of visit, tourist, or transit visas for foreign owners/partners
- Naturalization book (Jinsiya) copy of the local partner
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from sponsors (for foreign nationals under an employment visa)
- UID number (for those on a visit visa)
- Initial approvals from relevant authorities, including:
- Sharjah Economic Department
- Sharjah Roads & Transport Authority (SRTA)
- Sharjah City Municipality
- National Media Council (if applicable)