You’ve probably been there: trying to find a reliable consultant in Dubai — for visas, immigration, business setup or work permits — but discovering there are almost no reviews. No Google stars. No Facebook or Trustpilot feedback. Nothing.
That doesn’t mean it’s impossible to find someone good — but it does mean you have to dig deeper. Instead of trusting on popularity or hype, you want proof, transparency and honesty.
Here’s how you can find the best consultants in Dubai , step by step.
Best Consultants in Dubai: Why Lack of Reviews Doesn’t Always Mean “Bad”
Dubai is a large, fast-moving city with many niche consultants. Some do good work quietly — but may not bother with online reviews. Some new, small firms might be ethical and capable — but haven’t yet built a public reputation.
Others may be new but legitimate — licensed, experienced, careful — just starting out.
But: because reviews (or lack of reviews) add uncertainty, you treat every “unreviewed consultant” as a possible risk — and apply more thorough due diligence.
What to Check: Compatibility, Legitimacy & Transparency
Confirm Official Licensing / Registration
Ask to see their trade licence (or business licence) — whether from the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED) for mainland consultants, or the relevant free-zone authority if they’re operating from a free zone.
If they claim to act as an “agent” for a free zone or immigration-service provider, verify that status on the free zone’s official website (or via its partner directory) before proceeding.
Ensure their licence specifically covers consultancy or visa/immigration services — not just some unrelated business — because that shows they are authorized and recognized.
If a consultant can’t or won’t show a valid licence, consider it a big red flag.
Check Their Physical or Official Presence (Office + Contact Info)
A legit consultant should have a real office address — not just a P.O. Box, WhatsApp number, or free-email contact.
Their website (if they have one) should use a professional domain, list a real phone number/landline, and include verifiable contact details.
If possible — and you are in Dubai — try to visit their office in person. A face-to-face meeting gives more clarity: seriousness, facilities, willingness to answer questions. Many scam consultants operate “online-only.”
Ask for a Detailed Written Agreement or Proposal
Prior to making any payments, demand that they give you a written quote or contract — detailing including the services, fees (consultancy fees + government fees, if any), timelines, deliverables, and terms.
Avoid consultants who pressure you to pay large sums upfront — especially if they don’t provide an itemized invoice. That’s a common tactic among illegitimate operators.
Make sure payment methods are official, documented (bank transfer, invoice, cheque), not just cash in hand.
Evaluate Their Knowledge, Communication & Transparency
A professional consultant would clarify the entire procedure in detail — which visa or service you have applied for, which documents are required, what the risks are, how long it is going to take, etc. — no noncommittal promises.
If they make unrealistic claims — e.g., “100% visa approval guaranteed,” “fast-track approval,” “special connections with embassy/immigration” — treat that as a major red flag.
They should be willing to answer all questions, discuss contingencies, and provide honest, realistic advice, not just sell you a success story.
Ask for References or Case Examples — Even Without Public Reviews
Even if they don’t have online reviews, a legitimate consultant might have past clients willing to share feedback. Ask for 1–2 references whose cases are similar to yours (visa type, job, country).
Try to contact those references — ask about their experience: Were timelines followed? Was communication good? Did the consultant handle paperwork properly?
Try to verify the promises and the experiences of the past clients with the consultant. If they are reluctant to give references, that could be a red flag.
- Consultant’s Expertise Should Be Aligned with Your Needs
Usually consultants have their areas of specialization such as business setup, company formation, investor visas, immigration, skilled-worker visas, student visas, and so on. Select a consultant who has the exact experience in the visa or permit type that you need.
If the case is complicated (e.g. UK visa work permit, documents from abroad), it is better to choose a consultant with an international immigration or cross-border visa background rather than simply local business formation.
A consultant with legal knowledge, PRO (public relations officer) resources, or ties to relevant visa/immigration authorities is often more reliable than a generic “business setup” agent.
Key Red Flags to Watch Out For
Here are warning signs — treat them seriously if you encounter them:
Red Flag | Why You Should Avoid |
No valid trade licence or reluctance to show documents | They may be unregistered or unlicensed — risking legality and your money. |
Operates only via WhatsApp / Email / Social-media, no office address | Lack of physical presence often correlates with instability and risk. |
Guarantees of 100% visa/permit approval or “special connections” with authorities | Visa approvals depend on you and the immigration system — no consultant can guarantee outcomes. |
Unrealistically low prices compared to market rates | Low fees often mean shortcuts, hidden costs later, or poor service quality. |
Refusal to provide references or non-transparent about past clients | Without references, you’re trusting them blind — risky when there’s no public record. |
What to Do: Smart Steps Before You Commit
Shortlist 2–3 consultants with promising credentials (licence, office address, specialization).
Request documentation — trade licence, company registration info, service agreement or proposal.
Visit their location or request for a video-call office tour to assess their professionalism.
Request for recommendations — get in touch with at least one or two previous clients that are similar to your case.
Demand a detailed quote and services breakdown in advance — government fees, agency fees, visa/processing costs, and possible extras.
Follow your intuition — if there is something that does not feel right (overpromising, pushiness, lack of clarity), it is better to leave and choose another consultant.
Why This Matters — Especially for Immigration or Visa-Related Services
Working with a consultant isn’t just about convenience. For visa/immigration services — mistakes or fraud can cost you:
Money (lost fees, duplicate payments)
Time (delays, rejections)
Opportunities (missed visa windows, ruined plans)
Legal trouble (if consultant acts without licence or misrepresents documents)
When reviews are missing, due diligence becomes your only protection. The steps above give you a reasonable way to protect yourself.