Project Management Consultancy in Dubai International Financial Centre
Free ZoneProfessional

Project Management Consultancy in DIFC

Starting From

AED 12,000

Setup Time

5 Business Days

Visa Quota

6 Visas

Location

Dubai

About Project Management Consultancy

Entrepreneurs seeking to start a Project Management Consultancy business in the UAE will find Dubai International Financial Centre to be one of the most attractive jurisdictions, thanks to its strategic location and comprehensive support services.

Operating from Dubai International Financial Centre gives your Project Management Consultancy business access to Dubai's world-class infrastructure, including modern office facilities such as flexi desk, shared office, private office and excellent connectivity. The Project Management Consultancy activity does not require any special regulatory approvals beyond the standard trade licence, simplifying the setup process considerably.

IBA International has been helping entrepreneurs set up project management consultancy businesses in Dubai International Financial Centre since 2004. Our team of incorporation specialists will guide you through every step, from initial consultation to licence issuance and bank account opening, ensuring a smooth and efficient setup experience.

Why DIFC for Project Management Consultancy?

Choosing DIFC for your project management consultancy business comes with a host of strategic advantages that directly impact your bottom line and growth potential.

The jurisdiction offers independent legal framework (common law), which is particularly valuable for project management consultancy operations. Additionally, own courts and arbitration centre ensures that your business remains competitive in the regional market. As a free zone entity, your business enjoys complete repatriation of profits and capital, with no currency restrictions on transactions. Office solutions start from AED 18,000 per year for a flexi desk, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes. The standard licence includes a visa quota of 6 residency visas, with options to increase this number as your team grows. Premier financial hub further enhances the appeal of DIFC for project management consultancy professionals. Furthermore, zero tax for 50 years positions your project management consultancy business for long-term success in the region. With Dubai continuing to invest in infrastructure and business-friendly regulation, DIFC remains an excellent choice for both start-ups and established professional enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.

Independent legal framework (common law)
Own courts and arbitration centre
Premier financial hub
Zero tax for 50 years
Access to regional capital markets

Requirements & Documents

1Passport copies of all shareholders and directors (valid for at least 6 months)
2Completed application form for trade licence
3Proof of residential address (utility bill or bank statement)
4Signed application form from DIFC authority
5Entry stamp or valid UAE visa copy (if applying from within the UAE)
6Passport-sized photographs with white background
7Detailed business plan or activity description
8Proposed company name (2-3 alternatives)

Cost Breakdown

ItemCost (AED)
License Fee12,000
Visa Package (per visa)5,500
Flexi Desk18,000
Shared Office35,000
Private Office80,000
Estimated Total (Year 1)From AED 35,500

* Costs are indicative and subject to change. Contact IBA for a personalised quote.

Setup Timeline

1

Initial Consultation

Begin with a free consultation with IBA's business setup advisors to discuss your project management consultancy business objectives, optimal licence structure, and DIFC as your chosen jurisdiction. We assess your specific requirements and provide a transparent cost breakdown.

2

Choose Your Company Name

Select your company name and submit it for approval. DIFC has specific naming guidelines — the name must not conflict with existing registrations and should reflect your business activity. IBA handles the name reservation process.

3

Prepare & Submit Documents

Compile all required documentation including passport copies, photographs, and the completed application form. As a non-regulated activity, the documentation requirements are straightforward. IBA prepares and submits all paperwork on your behalf.

4

Obtain Trade Licence

Your DIFC trade licence is issued within 5 business days of document submission. The licence authorises you to conduct project management consultancy activities and is valid for one year. The licence fee is approximately AED 12,000.

5

Apply for Residence Visa

Once your licence is active, apply for your UAE residence visa and Emirates ID. Your DIFC licence includes 6 visa allocation. Each visa costs approximately AED 5,500. IBA manages the entire visa process including medical testing and Emirates ID.

6

Open Corporate Bank Account

With your trade licence in hand, open a corporate bank account at a UAE bank. IBA provides introductions to relationship managers at leading banks including Emirates NBD, ADCB, RAKBank, and Mashreq. We prepare a comprehensive banking file to ensure smooth account approval.

7

Start Operations

With your licence issued, visa processed, and bank account active, your project management consultancy business in Dubai International Financial Centre is ready to operate. IBA continues to support you with PRO services, VAT registration, accounting, and annual licence renewals.

Total estimated time: 5 business days. IBA handles the entire process end-to-end so you can focus on your business.

Frequently Asked Questions

The total setup cost for a Project Management Consultancy business in DIFC starts from approximately AED 12,000 for the trade licence. Additional costs include visa processing (AED 5,500 per visa), office space, and establishment card fees. IBA provides a detailed cost breakdown during your free consultation.

Guides by Nationality

Country-specific visa, banking, and document requirements for project management consultancy in DIFC:

Get Started Today

Ready to set up your project management consultancy in DIFC? Our team is here to help.

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Quick Facts

JurisdictionDIFC
TypeFree Zone
EmirateDubai
License FeeAED 12,000
Setup Time5 days
Visa Quota6
Activity Code70100

Official Source

www.difc.ae

By IBA Business Setup Team

Last updated: 26 February 2026

International Business Advisors DMCC has been helping entrepreneurs set up businesses in the UAE since 2004, with 20+ years of hands-on expertise.

Ready to Start Your Project Management Consultancy?

Get a personalised quote for setting up your project management consultancy in DIFC. Our advisors are ready to guide you through every step.