Starting an IT consultancy in Dubai is a comparatively straightforward professional-services licence, with a genuinely wide choice of suitable free zones given Dubai's strong technology-sector free zone lineup, alongside the standard mainland route through DET.
Licensing options
An IT consultancy can be licensed as a professional/technology-services activity through DET for a mainland licence, or through a technology-focused free zone such as Dubai Internet City for sector-community benefits, or a lower-cost general free zone like IFZA or RAKEZ if the specific tech-district address is not essential to the business.
Choosing the right free zone
Dubai Internet City suits IT consultancies wanting proximity to established multinational tech companies and a genuine sector community, at a higher price point than a general free zone. For a smaller consultancy or solo IT freelancer prioritising cost, IFZA, RAKEZ or a freelance permit route may fit better — see this site's Freelance Permit Cost Comparison for the solo-founder comparison specifically.
Costs and timeline
As a professional consultancy activity without special health, safety or facility approvals, IT consultancy licensing costs and timelines are generally comparable to other consultancy businesses. Model your case with this site's Business Setup Cost Calculator, and use the Free Zone vs Mainland Tool to compare your specific options.