What is a freelance visa in the UAE?
A freelancer visa is a type of residency in the UAE that allows its holder to conduct professional activities legally and live in the UAE, enjoying all the benefits of UAE residency without being tied to a single employer or specific location. You can open accounts in Emirati banks, transfer money internationally, and receive international payments. Starting with a cost-effective solution, you can grow and expand your business. You can even relocate with your family, paving the way for their stable and safe life, work, and education in a rapidly developing country in the GCC region. Here is a comprehensive guide on the cheapest freelance visas in UAE.
How to get a freelance visa?
Residence visas for freelancers are issued by UAE free zones as well as mainland authorities. Free zones offer the most cost-effective and straightforward way to register a freelance permit and obtain a freelancer’s visa.
Freelance visa in Dubai
There are several options to obtain a freelance work permit and visa in Dubai. You can choose DMCC, Dubai South Free Zone or one of the free zones managed by the TECOM group.
The TECOM group includes free zones such as Dubai Internet City, Dubai Media City, Dubai Knowledge Park, Dubai Design District, Dubai Industrial Park and others.
GoFreelance, facilitated by the Dubai Development Authority, offers a vast range of freelancing activities spanning four categories: design, education, media, and technology. These groups encompass a multitude of activities, making it an ideal platform to acquire your visa in Dubai and your freelance work permit in the UAE.
How to apply
- Register via the gofreelance.ae website.
- Submit required documents.
- Pay fees related to freelance permit and residence visa.
- Receive a freelance license.
- Apply for a residence visa and Emirates ID.
- Complete a medical test and biometrics.
- Obtain a freelancer’s visa and Emirates ID.
Freelance visa cost in Dubai (DMCC)
| Freelance license 2-year residence visa Medical test Emirates ID | 14,200 AED |
| 1-year health insurance | from 1,100 AED |
| Total | 15,300 AED |
Prices are for reference only and do not constitute an official offer. Agency fees are not included.
Requirements for a freelance visa in the UAE
To obtain a freelancer’s visa in the UAE and start your business as a solo entrepreneur, you must meet certain requirements and follow a structured process.
Before applying for a visa, you need to acquire a freelance permit (also referred to as a freelancer license), which serves as your work authorization. Note that freelancers can only provide professional services—not engage in trading activities. Mind that you must be at least 18 years old to be able to apply for a freelance permit.
Depending on your field of expertise, you may need to submit certificates or other proof of qualifications.
You can register your license remotely. However, if you require a residence visa, you will need to travel to Dubai for 2–3 days to undergo the mandatory medical examination and submit your biometrics.
Applicants must provide a clear criminal record certificate, as background checks may be required during the visa process.
Steps to obtain a freelance visa and license in the UAE
The process of obtaining a visa and license suitable for freelance work in the UAE involves several steps. How to apply for a freelance visa in Dubai? Here's general overview:
Based on your professional activity, select a suitable free zone authority. Each free zone has different costs and requirements for the freelance permit.
Submit your application for a freelance license, along with the necessary documents. The permit allows you to work legally as a freelancer in the UAE. Usually, it takes 5-10 days to get your license.
Once your freelance permit is approved by the chosen free zone authority, you can apply for a residence visa. The visa allows you to live in the UAE and provide sponsorship of family members.
Then arrive in Dubai to finalize the visa application procedure, undergo medical checks, and complete other formalities.
In Dubai free zones medical insurance is also required.
Once approved, you will receive your visa, which is valid for 2 years.
Documents required
For most freelancers, there are no strict professional background requirements. You simply need to gather certain documents and submit your permit application.
Generally, the required documents are:
- Valid passport copy
- Visa and Emirates ID copy (if you are a UAE resident)
- No objection certificate (NOC) from current sponsor (if you are a UAE resident) (if applicable)
- Recent photo
- CV
- Portfolio of works (if applicable)
Securing a freelance visa in Dubai will grant you a residence visa, allowing you to live in the country. Additionally, you will need a work permit in Dubai or freelance license to start legally freelancing in the UAE.
Benefits of freelance permit
1. UAE resident status
The main advantage of a freelancer visa in UAE is the official status of being a resident of the country. With a residency permit, you can:
- Live freely and work legally in the United Arab Emirates
- Rent and purchase property
- Conduct business in the UAE
- Open bank accounts
- Sponsor your family
- Enroll your children in schools
- Pursue your own education
- Buy a car and obtain a driver’s license
You become a resident of the Emirates and can enjoy many of the benefits this country offers.
2. Legal conduct of business activities
With a freelancer visa in Dubai, you can legally conduct professional activities, including:
- Registering at a legal address
- Opening accounts in Emirati and international banks
- Issuing invoices and receiving payments from legal entities
- Adhere to UAE tax regulations while lowering your tax burden
3. Lowered tax burden
In the UAE, there is no personal income tax, property tax, tax on dividends, capital gains tax for individuals, and several other taxes. However, freelancers may be liable to pay taxes on their business income under UAE corporate tax laws.
4. Flexible living
In addition to not being tied to a specific work schedule or place of residence, with a freelance visa Dubai offers excellent opportunities to establish relationships with multiple employers, allowing them to increase their monthly income.
5. Lower business setup costs
Obtaining a freelancer license is cheaper than registering a company in the UAE. A freelancer does not need to rent an office or hire employees who need to be paid salaries. Freelancers can use cheaper working facilities such as home offices, flexi-desks and co-working spaces. From a tax perspective, freelancers have the opportunity to reduce their tax burden.
6. High standards of living in the UAE
- Strong and transparent banking system: UAE banks adhere to international standards, have a strict compliance system, and closely monitor to ensure that "grey" money does not enter the country.
- Smooth international transactions: There are no currency controls, allowing you to make money transfers anywhere in the world and accept any payments.
- Major hub for international trade: The United Arab Emirates is a global trade and financial center with direct access to international markets.
- Government being friendly to foreigners: It is keen on attracting foreign business and finance, as the country aims to reduce its dependence on oil revenues and diversify its economy.
- Rapidly growing tourism: The Emirates are actively building infrastructure and creating recreational areas that allow for comfortable leisure even during peak temperatures. Therefore, businesses providing services in the tourism sector are likely to succeed.
- High level of safety: The UAE has consistently ranked among the top 5 safest countries in the world for many years.
Start freelance license today
Aidina K.
Contact us for prices and details
Business activities allowed for a freelance license
Freelancers in content creation, advertising, digital marketing, and production can apply in free zones like Dubai Media City, Abu Dhabi’s Twofour54, and Fujairah’s Creative City, which offer media-focused resources and networking opportunities.
Educators, trainers, and academic consultants may secure freelance permits in Dubai Knowledge Park and Abu Dhabi’s Twofour54. These zones cater to professionals offering workshops, online courses, and academic content.
Dubai Internet City, Dubai Silicon Oasis, and RAKEZ are popular for tech professionals specializing in software development, data analysis, and IT consulting.
For creative designers in fashion, graphics, and interior design, Dubai Design District (D3) and Ajman Free Zone provide dedicated support for establishing design studios or consultancies.
Business advisors, legal consultants, and professional service providers often choose free zones like DMCC and UAQ Free Trade Zone, which cater to consultancy-based businesses and have comprehensive support services.
Video producers, photographers, and creative studios will find suitable permits in Dubai Media City and Sharjah Media City (SHAMS), both equipped for high-end content production with specialized facilities.
Musicians and audio professionals can register in free zones like Dubai Studio City, which offers resources for music production, audio engineering, and sound design.
Freelance writers, editors, and publishers are supported in Abu Dhabi’s Twofour54 and Sharjah Publishing City. These zones facilitate publishing, copyright services, and distribution.
Visual artists, illustrators, and craftspersons may choose Fujairah’s Creative City or Dubai Design District, providing access to studios, galleries, and event spaces tailored to creative arts.
Each free zone's specific focus allows freelancers to tap into targeted resources, networks, and support systems, enhancing opportunities within their chosen industry. Some of these free zones also provide activities that encompass all these categories.
Office facilities for a freelancer in Dubai
While freelancers often work from home, some free zones offer shared office spaces. These co-working spaces offer a professional environment and networking opportunities for those having a freelance visa in Dubai. You can utilize virtual offices that come with an official business address for you and other business services including meeting rooms.
| Facility | Description |
|---|---|
| Home office | Ideal for those who prefer working independently without added costs. |
| Flexi-desk | Flexible shared desk space available in many free zones, providing an affordable option with access to office amenities. |
| Coworking spaces | These offer a professional setting with networking opportunities, ideal for freelancers who value a collaborative environment. |
| Virtual offices | Provides a prestigious business address, meeting rooms, and basic office support without a physical desk. |
Registration authorities
The UAE houses many business registration authorities, providing multiple options for a freelance visa application in Dubai or other emirates. All of them can be divided into two categories:
- UAE free zones
- UAE mainland
Regardless of where your permit and visa are issued, you retain the same rights to work throughout the UAE. For example, when talking about a freelance visa in Dubai, the distinction between various licensing authorities, like Dubai Media City, RAKEZ, AFZA. etc., lies in the range of business activities they offer to freelancers and the associated costs.
Freelance visa in UAE free zones
One of the most popular jurisdictions for freelancers is Dubai’s free zones. You can also seek a freelance license in other free zones and emirates, for example in Abu Dhabi (Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development), Twofour54, in the UAQ free trade zone, in the Ajman free zone, in the SHAMS free zone, in the RAKEZ, and in the Fujairah's Creative City free zone.
The main advantages of free zones in terms of obtaining a residence visa include a simplified license registration process, speed, affordable costs, and minimal office space requirements in the form of a flexi-desk.
Freelance visa on mainland Dubai
Obtaining a freelance visa on the UAE mainland can be more challenging, as the licensing process often involves stricter approvals and higher costs compared to free zones.
However, freelance permits issued on the mainland allow individuals to work independently without being tied to a specific free zone. Unlike free zone licenses, which restrict business activities to the issuing free zone, a mainland freelance license enables professionals to operate anywhere in the UAE and serve a broader client base. Additionally, mainland freelancers can apply for contracts with government entities, which is often not permitted under free zone regulations.
Cheapest freelance visas in UAE – cost
| LICENSE TYPE | VISAS INCLUDED | TOTAL COST |
|---|---|---|
| UAQ License – Freelance package | 1 visa | AED 14,145 or $3,851 |
| SHAMS License – Freelance package | 1 visa | AED 16,620 or $4,525 |
| TECOM License – Freelance package | 1 visa | AED 15,200 or $4,138 |
| AFZA License – Freelance package | 1 visa | AED 12,825 or $3,492 |
Securing your freelance visa with Emirabiz
For over 10 years, Emirabiz has been helping businesses establish themselves in the UAE, offering support with company setup, license acquisition, residency visas, and bank account opening. Our team of seasoned experts includes business consultants, legal advisors, accountants, tax specialists, and real estate professionals, all equipped with the latest knowledge of UAE regulations and standards.
We’re here to guide you through starting your freelance business in Dubai, tailored to your experience, goals, and potential, and will help to secure the cheapest freelance visa. With Emirabiz, you can confidently build your future in one of the world’s most dynamic business hubs.
Living in the Emirates without resident status is possible but very inconvenient, as the country has strict controls over visitors. There are lots of options on how to secure a Dubai residence visa, including Golden visa, property investor visa, etc. Discover the most suitable type of UAE residency for you right now!
Frequently Asked Questions
In addition to the initial visa and permit costs, freelancers should budget for:
- Visa and permit renewal fees (required periodically).
- Office space rental (if needed, depending on the free zone’s requirements).
- Accounting and bookkeeping services (if outsourced).
- Corporate tax payments (if applicable under UAE tax regulations).
- Visa cancellation fees (if you decide to exit the UAE).
You can check the status of your freelance visa through the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICP) website or the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) portal, depending on your visa’s issuing authority.
The entire process, including obtaining a freelance permit and visa, typically takes 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the chosen free zone and document processing time.
To cancel your freelance visa, you must:
- Apply for visa cancellation through the issuing free zone or immigration authority.
- Clear any outstanding fees or obligations.
- Submit your Emirates ID and passport for processing.
- Obtain the official visa cancellation confirmation.
Yes, freelance visa holders can sponsor their spouse, children, and other dependents. However, sponsorship eligibility depends on meeting the minimum income requirements set by UAE immigration authorities.
Yes, a freelance visa is a fully legal way to work as an independent professional in the UAE. It is issued by UAE free zones and mainland authorities, allowing individuals to operate within specific service-based industries.
The total cost of a freelance visa in Dubai comprises the freelance permit cost and the actual visa fees. The most affordable freelance permit is available at 9,200 AED. The freelance visa under this permit includes 2,000 AED for the establishment card and 5,000 AED for the resident visa.
Working from home in Dubai is feasible if your professional activities are internet-based. Here's a step-by-step guide:
- Obtain a freelance permit or license
- Apply for your freelance visa in Dubai (if don’t have an active residency visa)
- Open a bank account
- Promote your services online and within community groups
- Deliver your services via the internet
- Utilize social media to market your products
- Renew your freelance permit annually
Yes, upon having your visa stamped in your passport, you can sponsor your dependents. Remember, you'll need an attested tenancy contract and legalized marriage/birth certificates to apply for residency for your family members.
Typically, freelancing involves providing professional services. For trading, it's advisable to obtain a trade license specifying the trading of products.
If you intend to live and work permanently in the UAE, a UAE residency visa, which can be opened under a freelance permit, is necessary.
They are valid for 1-2 years.
Freelancers are required to register for taxation and pay corporate tax only if their yearly account turnover exceeds 1 million dirhams. The corporate tax rate is 9%.
Typically, a freelance permit in Dubai only allows for a personal account.
Yes, if your turnover reaches 375,000 AED, you are required to pay VAT (5%) on all applicable supplies within the UAE or GCC VAT implementing countries, register with the Federal Tax Authority, and pay VAT quarterly.
Form Content
Elena O.
Got a question? Our expert is ready to help!
We will contact you within 1 business day to analyze your case, provide solutions, and calculate costs.
Need a cheap UAE business license?
Aidina K.
Contact us for prices and details
Thank you very much for your service. All was done in a short time and in a very comfortable conditions. The level of Anna Soloviova is high. All her explanations and details of new company…
Your Service was fantastic and flawless! And a very, very special „Thank You“ for Nadia! She provided assistance to solve problems, responded immediately to E-Mails, amazing customer…
I am satisfied with the process, steps and speed of my company incorporation also you helped me a lot and very quickly.Turkey
Hi, I meet Natalia Consultant she help me a lot for my business information with quick response great job Natalia.Pradeep, Sri Lanka
We were considering options for opening a company in one of the free zones in the UAE and sought preliminary advice from Emirabiz. Consultant Natalia provided the most complete information…
I contacted Emirabiz for help in choosing and registering a company in a free zone in the United Arab Emirates. Natalia Maslina, a Business Setup Advisor, provided me with comprehensive…
So First of all thank you so much for your continuous help and quick reply for all my questions and doubts about the formation and setups. Also I am recommending this company for everyone…
I would like to acknowledge an outstanding customer service and comprehensive business development advice provided to me by Natalia. Her high level of professionalism and thoughtful…