A "cosmetologist" in Dubai is two different specialists with different rights. Who to hire depends on which services you want to offer legally.
Aesthetic doctor
- Injectables, lasers, medical procedures
- Requires a DHA licence + medical degree
- Pricier, longer to onboard — but unlocks medical services
Esthetician
- Care treatments: cleansing, peels, device-based care
- No DHA licence needed (non-medical)
- Faster and more affordable, but no injectables or lasers
Frequently asked questions
Is a cosmetologist a doctor or an esthetician?
It depends on the procedures. Injections, device-based and medical procedures may only be performed by a licensed aesthetic-medicine doctor. Non-medical, care procedures can be done by a qualified esthetician or cosmetologist.
Who can perform injections and device procedures in Dubai?
As a rule, only a specialist with a valid DHA medical licence of the relevant profile. Non-medical staff may not perform invasive and certain device-based procedures — this is regulated by law.
Should a salon hire a doctor or an esthetician?
It depends on your service list. Medical aesthetics needs a licensed doctor; care procedures suit a qualified esthetician. TLNT helps match a specialist to your procedure list and licence requirements.
Help deciding?
We'll tell you who you need for your treatment list and whether a licence applies. Free.
Talk to us