How to Set Up an Engineering Consultancy in Dubai?

Are you looking to establish an engineering consultancy? Dubai can be an innovative and lucrative business destination as the engineering sector is flourishing and contributing significantly to the country’s overall GDP. Given the multitude of benefits offered, entrepreneurs worldwide wish for a business setup in Dubai.

Go through the article to learn about the established processes and regulations to consider when setting up your engineering consultancy in Dubai.

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Who are Engineering Consultants in Dubai?

Individuals with high technical knowledge in engineering make up engineering consultants in Dubai. They are experts who can improve the operational efficiency of businesses by integrating technological and mathematical strategies. To open an engineering consultancy in Dubai, you must have an engineering degree and a proper work portfolio. Engineering consultants usually specialise in a specific engineering field, such as electrical, civil, chemical, and mechanical engineering.

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Classification of Engineering Consultancy in Dubai

You must register with Dubai Municipality and obtain the Dubai Engineering Consultancy Classification (DECC) to open an engineering consultancy in Dubai successfully. Availing the DECC certificate makes you eligible for multiple government tenders. Engineering consultancy firms that fall under DECC are classified into three distinct categories. They are mentioned below:

• First (Unlimited) Category- It enables participation in projects of any height.
• Second (G+12) Category- It allows participation in projects up to 12 storeys in height.
• Third (G+4) Category- Under this category, participation in projects up to 4 storeys in height is allowed.

Additionally, depending on the level of technical expertise, an engineering consultancy in Dubai is categorised as one of the following:

• Associate Engineering Firm 

This type of firm is typically for those who are yet to gain experience in the UAE market but wish to provide engineering consultancy services.

• Expert Engineering Firm

Companies in this category have the freedom to take on projects of any size and are not restricted by the number of storeys they can build. These firms are known to undertake high-profile projects given their reputation and expertise.

• Foreign Engineering Branch Office

These offices are an extension of the parent company and only provide services that are similar to the foreign headquarters. 

• Local Engineering Firm

UAE nationals primarily own these firms. However, they do allow expats to share ownership of the company, given that local residents hold 51 percent of shares.

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Process of Establishing an Engineering Consultancy in Dubai

Understanding the laws and regulations involved with company formation ensures legal compliance and streamlines business setup in Dubai. Mentioned below are the steps involved in establishing an engineering consultancy in Dubai:

Step 1- Choose a trade name under the UAE naming conventions. Ensure it does not violate any existing trademarks.

Step 2- Obtain all necessary approvals and permits from relevant authorities.

Step 3- Choose the suitable business structure for setting up the engineering consultancy in Dubai among Limited Liability Company (LLC), sole establishment, and civil company.

Step 4- Submit all the necessary documents like copies of passport, MoA, and lease agreement to the relevant authorities to obtain the required business license.

Step 5- Obtain DECC approval by completing the documentation process and meeting the set requirements.

Step 6- Hire all the key personnel, such as the general manager and certified engineer.

Step 7- Complete all the visa processing formalities.

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What are the Requirements to Start an Engineering Consultancy?

Mentioned below are the basic requirements to successfully establish an engineering consultancy business in Dubai:

• All the companies registering as a branch of a foreign company in Dubai must provide details of their work activities over the last 15 years.
• The general manager appointed in the consultancy must be an engineer with at least 15 years of experience. 
• Only an engineer with 15 years of experience can take responsibility for each listed activity on the trading license. They must be a member of the Society of Engineers in the UAE.
• If you are looking to establish an LLC or civil company, then an Emirati who is either an architect or civil engineer with at least ten years of relevant experience must be partnered. The UAE national must own a minimum of 51 percent of shares.
• Overseas companies must appoint a local agent to handle the application process on their behalf. The local agent must be born and a resident of Dubai.

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Why Commitbiz?

Our business advisors at Commitbiz LLC can help you realise your potential and streamline the company registration journey. Our advisors have years of experience and are well-versed in the involved legalities with regard to company formation in various jurisdictions. We act as a one-stop shop for all business needs, helping you capitalise on the benefits and opportunities of establishing an engineering consultancy in Dubai. Contact us to learn more about our services and achieve much-desired business goals.

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