Ras Al Khaimah Professional License: Costs & Requirements
Starting a business in Ras Al Khaimah, UAE, involves several key decisions, including selecting a location, determining the type of company structure, and obtaining the appropriate business license.
There are three primary types of licenses available: commercial, industrial, and professional—each catering to different business activities. This article focuses on the professional license, detailing the permitted activities and the application process.
Setting up a business with a professional license is a straightforward process when done with the right support and guidance. If you plan to offer professional services in the UAE, Shamal Business Services can assist you.
What is a Professional License in Ras Al Khaimah?
A professional license allows individuals and businesses to provide professional services, typically those requiring intellectual or artistic skills. These services include consulting, marketing, printing, publishing, and hands-on trades like carpentry, artisan crafting, and beauty services.
Professional licenses are issued by various Ras Al Khaimah free zones and the Department of Economic Development (DED) for mainland businesses. Unlike commercial and industrial licenses, professional licenses allow 100% foreign ownership for non-GCC nationals in most cases.
How to Obtain a Professional License in Ras Al Khaimah, UAE
Before launching a business in Ras Al Khaimah or the broader UAE, it’s beneficial to seek advice from a local expert, such as Shamal Business Services.
After an initial consultation to assess your business requirements, we guide you through the company formation process, managing all applications and approvals on your behalf.
1. Define Your Business Activities
The first step is identifying the business activities you intend to carry out to ensure they align with the professional license requirements. You must list all planned activities, with the flexibility to add more later if needed.
2. Selecting a Company Name
Choosing a company name in Ras Al Khaimah comes with specific regulations. The name should not include any offensive or blasphemous words, reference well-known organizations, or use abbreviations when incorporating your name (e.g., “Dave Mann Consulting” instead of “D Mann Consulting”). Additionally, you must verify that the name is available for registration.
3. Submitting a Trade License Application
To obtain a professional license, you must apply either through the UAE mainland’s e-channel portal or in person at a service center. If setting up in a free zone, you’ll need to apply through the respective free zone authority, which is often the more cost-effective and straightforward route. Shamal Business Services can handle the application process on your behalf, ensuring compliance and accuracy before submission.
4. Visa Applications
A residency visa is required for you and any employees you plan to hire. With proper guidance, the visa application process can be smooth and efficient. Additionally, as a business license holder, you can sponsor visas for family members or domestic workers.
5. Setting Up a Corporate Bank Account
To facilitate financial transactions within the UAE and internationally, you’ll need a corporate bank account. However, non-GCC nationals may face challenges when opening one. With the assistance of BIZ, you can navigate this process more efficiently, as we provide guidance on selecting the right banking institutions and ensuring a smooth application process.
Required Documents for a Professional License in Ras Al Khaimah
When applying for a professional license in the UAE, whether in a free zone or the mainland, you will typically need to submit:
- Passport copies of all partners and managers
- A copy of the residence visa and No Objection Certificate (NOC), if applicable
- A copy of your visa, if applicable
Partnering with Shamal Business Services for Your Business Setup
Setting up a business with a professional license in Ras Al Khaimah can be straightforward if handled correctly. However, ensuring error-free and complete applications is essential for a smooth process.
To streamline your business setup, working with a formation specialist like BIZ is highly recommended. Our team of UAE business experts is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs and small businesses bring their visions to life.
Beyond assisting with license applications, we help establish corporate bank accounts, provide financial institution recommendations, and offer visa and immigration support. We also manage government formalities, work permits, and visa applications necessary for operating in the UAE.
In summary, BIZ handles the entire company setup process—including licensing, visa applications, and administrative tasks—so you can focus on running your business efficiently.