Comprehensive Guide to Getting a Freelance License in Dubai, UAE

What is a freelance license?

A freelance license (often called a freelance permit) in Dubai allows individuals to legally conduct business activities as independent professionals. It serves as a work permit that grants the holder the right to operate in the UAE, offering the freedom to work without being tied to a single employer or specific location. This license also provides access to various business opportunities, including opening bank accounts, transferring funds internationally, and receiving payments from clients around the world. A freelance license in the UAE is an ideal choice for entrepreneurs looking for flexibility and scalability, as it offers a cost-effective pathway to start and expand a business in the United Arab Emirates.

With a freelance license, you can enjoy the benefits of UAE residency, including the ability to live in the country, work, and access the excellent services available to residents. Moreover, it opens the door to relocating your family to the UAE, ensuring they have a stable and prosperous life in one of the fastest-growing economies in the GCC region.

How it differs from a freelance visa

While a freelance license is a permit that authorizes you to operate as a freelancer, a freelance visa is a UAE residence visa that enables you to live and work in the country. Once you obtain a freelance license, you can apply for a visa, which grants you residency status in the UAE.

The freelance visa is typically valid for two years, while the freelance license is renewed annually. The visa allows both the freelancer and their family members to live in the UAE, access healthcare and education, and enjoy the full range of benefits that come with residency.

Why choose a freelance license in Dubai?

Benefits of freelancing in Dubai

Freelancing in Dubai offers numerous advantages, both professionally and personally. Here’s a summary of the key benefits:

• Work legally in the UAE: Freelancers can conduct business legally, issue invoices, open bank accounts, and transfer or receive payments locally and internationally.
• Tax benefits: The UAE has no personal income tax, capital gains tax, or tax on dividends. Freelancers generating over 1 million AED annually are subject to a 9% corporate tax, but those with revenue up to 3 million AED benefit from a 0% tax rate until December 31, 2026.
• Lifestyle: Enjoy a high standard of living, security, and access to top-notch infrastructure. Freelancers can also buy a car and obtain a UAE driver’s license.
• Property ownership: As a UAE resident, you can rent property long-term or even purchase real estate.
• Family sponsorship: Freelancers can sponsor their family for residence, granting them access to healthcare, education, and work opportunities.
• No office requirement: Freelancers are not required to rent a traditional office. Co-working spaces or flexi-desks are available for a minimal cost.
• No mandatory accounting: Freelancers can outsource their accounting needs, as maintaining an in-house system is not a requirement.
• Lower setup and business support costs: Setting up as a freelancer is more affordable compared to establishing a full-scale company. There are fewer operational expenses and no need to hire employees.
• Flexibility: Freelancers can work with multiple clients, increasing earning potential and offering the freedom to choose when and where to work.
• Networking opportunities: The UAE’s multicultural environment allows freelancers to connect with professionals from around the world, expanding their network and business opportunities.

Freelance license requirements in Dubai

Eligibility criteria

To qualify for a freelance license and visa in Dubai, applicants must meet several key requirements. These ensure that you can operate professionally and legally in the UAE:

• Minimum age: You must be at least 18 years old to apply for freelance permits.
• Relevant qualifications: If your freelance activities require specific expertise or certifications, you should have diplomas, degrees, or other professional certifications to validate your qualifications.
• Experience: While formal qualifications may not always be necessary, having relevant work experience in your field of expertise is important to demonstrate your capability and professionalism.
• Clean criminal record: Applicants must have no criminal history. A background check may be required as part of the application process.

Required documents

The process for applying for a freelance permit in Dubai is straightforward, and the documents required are generally basic. Depending on your particular situation, you may need to provide the following:

• A valid copy of your passport to verify your identity.
• If you're already a resident of the UAE, provide a copy of your visa and Emirates ID.
• If you are already employed in the UAE, you may need an NOC from your current sponsor to ensure there are no conflicts with your freelance activities. This requirement applies primarily to those holding an existing employment visa.
• A passport-sized photo for identification purposes.
• A professional CV outlining your qualifications and work experience in the chosen freelance field.
• If your work involves creative or specialized services, such as design, writing, or photography, you may need to submit a portfolio showcasing your best work.

Industry-specific requirements

While most freelancers are not required to provide strict professional documentation, certain fields may have additional requirements:

• Creative industries: Freelancers working in creative sectors, such as design, art, media, and entertainment, may need to submit a portfolio or proof of previous work. 
• Technical fields: Freelancers in technical fields like IT, engineering, or education may need to provide relevant certifications or qualifications to prove their expertise.
• Consultancy and education: Consultants or educators may be asked to provide academic qualifications and professional credentials to ensure compliance with local regulations in those industries.

Freelance activities permitted under a Dubai license

Freelancers in Dubai can engage in a wide range of activities, thanks to the variety of free zones available, each catering to different industries. Below are the key sectors where freelancers can operate, with corresponding free zones offering the necessary resources and opportunities for success.

Creative Services

Freelancers involved in creative fields such as graphic design, fashion design, art, and content creation have a variety of options when selecting a free zone for their permit. 

Technology and IT

Freelancers specializing in technology and IT-related services can choose from several free zones tailored to tech professionals. 

Education and Consultancy

Freelancers offering educational services, including online courses, training programs, and academic consulting, can benefit from a freelance license. 

Media and Marketing

Freelancers specializing in media, content creation, and digital marketing have a wide range of activities they can legally pursue in Dubai. These include advertising, social media management, content production, and digital marketing services.

Design and Consulting Services

Freelance business consultants, legal advisors, and professionals offering services such as financial planning, business development, or marketing strategy can operate freely in Dubai. Additionally, consultants in creative industries like fashion, interior design, and branding can offer their expertise without the need for a permanent office setup.

Content Production and Publishing

Freelancers in content production, such as video producers, photographers, editors, and music producers, can work on high-quality media projects, including films, commercials, and digital content. Similarly, writers, editors, and publishers are free to engage in all aspects of content creation, from writing to editing and distribution. 

Arts and Music

Freelancers in the arts, including visual artists, illustrators, musicians, and audio engineers, have the opportunity to showcase their talents and provide services in their respective fields. Artists can work on commissioned pieces, offer consulting services, or sell their creations. Musicians and audio professionals can work on music production, sound design, and audio engineering projects, collaborating with clients in the entertainment, media, and advertising industries.

Free zones offering freelance licenses in the UAE

Several UAE free zones cater specifically to freelancers, offering tailored benefits for various industries. Here are some top options:

Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ)

RAKEZ is an affordable and flexible choice for freelancers, especially in IT, design, and education. With minimal overhead costs and access to co-working spaces, it’s ideal for cost-conscious entrepreneurs seeking a simple setup.

Dubai Technology, Electronic Commerce, and Media Free Zone (Tecom)

Tecom is perfect for freelancers in media, technology, and digital marketing. It offers top-notch infrastructure, networking opportunities, and resources for creative professionals in a collaborative environment.

Sharjah Media City (Shams)

Shams is ideal for media and creative freelancers, providing affordable licenses, state-of-the-art facilities, and a thriving ecosystem for film production, design, and advertising.

Twofour54 in Abu Dhabi

Twofour54 supports freelancers in the media and entertainment sectors, offering world-class production facilities and networking opportunities in a tax-friendly environment. It's a prime location for professionals in film, TV, and digital production.

Ajman Free Trade Zone

Ajman Free Trade Zone is known for its low setup costs and flexible workspace options, making it a great choice for freelancers starting out. It supports various sectors, including IT, education, and consulting.

UAQ Free Trade Zone

UAQ offers an affordable, simple setup process for freelancers in consulting, design, and education. It’s a great choice for those looking for flexibility and cost-effective business solutions.

Step-by-step guide to obtaining a freelance license in Dubai

Obtaining a freelance permit and visa in Dubai is a straightforward process, but it involves a few key steps to ensure you're legally set up to work in the UAE. Here’s a breakdown of the process:

1. Choose a free zone. The first step is to select a suitable free zone. Explore free zones that offer freelance licenses and choose the one that offers the best set of services in the package and the best price for you.
2. Select your activity. Choose the specific business activity you want to pursue. Freelancers can engage in a wide range of fields, from IT and design to media and education. 
3. Register as a freelancer and submit documents. Apply for a freelance permit. Submit the necessary documentation, which typically includes a valid passport copy, proof of qualifications (if applicable), and a portfolio of your work. Depending on the free zone, this process usually takes about 5 to 10 days.
4. Obtain approvals and permits. After submitting your application, the chosen free zone authority will process your documents and approve your freelance permit. This permit allows you to legally operate as a freelancer in Dubai.
5. Receive your freelance license. Once your freelance permit is granted, you will officially receive your freelance license. This will allow you to start conducting business activities, open bank accounts, and engage in legal contracts within the UAE.
6. Apply for your freelancer’s visa. With your license in hand, you can now apply for a freelance visa. This residence visa will allow you to live and work in the UAE for up to two years. The process involves securing an entry permit, completing a medical fitness test, and obtaining a fingerprint record.

Costs of freelance license and visa in Dubai

The cost of obtaining a freelance license and visa in Dubai is generally affordable, with various pricing structures depending on the selected free zone. Here's a breakdown of the costs involved in setting up as a freelancer in Dubai:

Breakdown of license fees

• Freelance permit: Starting from AED 7,500, this is the initial fee required for a freelancer to obtain the necessary license to operate legally in Dubai.
• Establishment card: This card, which is needed for registering your business, costs around AED 2,000.
• Medical test: The cost of the medical test varies depending on the free zone. Generally, the fee is minimal and necessary for visa issuance.
• Visa fees: The cost for the Dubai freelance visa typically ranges from AED 3,000 to AED 5,000. 

Additional charges

In addition to the initial setup costs, freelancers should consider ongoing expenses:

• Visa renewal: Each year, you will need to renew your freelance permit in Dubai and visa. Renewal costs are similar to initial fees, depending on the free zone and services chosen.
• Co-working or office space: If required, freelancers can opt for affordable shared office spaces or co-working spaces. Fees for these services can vary, but they are typically budget-friendly, with rates starting from AED 1,500 to AED 3,000 per year.
• Accounting and bookkeeping: Outsourcing accounting and bookkeeping services is optional, but it can cost around AED 1,500 to AED 3,000 annually, depending on the volume of transactions.
• Corporate tax: If your business exceeds AED 1 million in revenue, you may be liable for corporate tax at a rate of 9%. However, for businesses with a turnover up to AED 3 million (until 2026), the tax rate is 0%, under the Small Business Relief.

Why work with a business setup company?

Obtaining a legal freelance permit in Dubai can be complex, but Emirabiz makes the process simple and efficient. Here's how we can help:

Streamlining the application process

We handle all the paperwork and liaise with the authorities, ensuring that your application is submitted correctly and on time.

Expert guidance on compliance

Our team ensures you meet all legal requirements, keeping you compliant with UAE regulations throughout the process.

Saving time and effort

With Emirabiz, you can focus on your business while we manage the administrative tasks, saving you time and effort.

Contact Emirabiz for a free consultation, and we’ll guide you through the entire process.