Dubai has expanded its pool of licensed social professionals to 1,144, reinforcing the emirate’s commitment to improving quality of life through stronger regulation, professional standards and community-focused social services.
DUBAI: Dubai has reached a new milestone in strengthening its social services sector, with licensed social professionals in the emirate now numbering 1,144. The latest achievement reflects ongoing efforts to improve community wellbeing, enhance professional standards and support the goals of the Dubai Social Agenda 33.
The Community Development Authority (CDA) announced the graduation of the third cohort of licensed professionals for 2026. The group includes 38 specialists who successfully completed all licensing requirements before taking the professional oath in the presence of Her Excellency Hessa bint Essa Buhumaid, Director General of the CDA.
With this latest cohort, the total number of officially licensed and accredited professionals has risen significantly. By the end of 2025, Dubai had licensed 991 professionals, while another 115 obtained licences during the first half of 2026. The figures cover specialists working across social, psychological and educational disciplines.
Why is professional licensing important?
Dubai’s licensing programme is designed to ensure that individuals providing social and psychological services meet recognised academic, ethical and professional standards before entering practice.
The framework is supported by Law No. (12) of 2026 concerning the Community Development Authority, which authorises the CDA to regulate, license and supervise social professionals across the emirate. The licensing process also includes a mandatory professional oath required under the Executive Regulation of Executive Council Resolution No. (20) of 2011.
According to the CDA, taking the oath represents more than a formal ceremony. It marks a professional commitment to integrity, accountability and ethical practice while strengthening public confidence in those delivering social services.
Which professions are included?
The licensing framework covers a wide range of specialisations to meet Dubai’s growing community needs. These include psychologists, assistant psychologists, social workers, social counsellors, special education teachers, assistant behaviour analysts, assistant learning support professionals and behaviour analysts.
By recognising diverse professional roles, the system aims to improve the quality and accessibility of services available to children, families and individuals across the emirate.
Her Excellency Hessa bint Essa Buhumaid said investing in qualified professionals is ultimately an investment in people and their quality of life. She explained that developing a highly trained workforce helps build a resilient and sustainable social sector capable of responding to changing community needs while delivering high-quality services.
She noted that the number of licensed professionals has grown rapidly from 450 at the beginning of 2024 to more than 1,100 within two and a half years, describing the increase as evidence of Dubai’s continued commitment to strengthening its social development framework.
How does this support Dubai’s long-term vision?
The initiative aligns with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and the objectives of the Dubai Social Agenda 33, which seeks to create one of the world’s most cohesive, sustainable and people-centred societies.
The CDA says it will continue enhancing the licensing framework while supporting both Emirati and resident professionals through ongoing development and regulation. By expanding the number of licensed social professionals, Dubai aims to improve community services, strengthen public trust and further establish itself as a global benchmark for excellence in social care and quality of life.
Community Development Authority, CDA, Dubai, Licensed social professionals, Social services, Psychology, Education, Social workers, Dubai Social Agenda 33, UAE, Quality of life, Community wellbeing
