Dubai is becoming one of the most sought-after destinations for entrepreneurs and independent professionals, thanks to its modern infrastructure, growing economy, and attractive tax benefits.
However, can non-citizens legally live and work as freelancers in Dubai? Yes, but they need a valid Dubai freelance visa.
What is a Dubai freelance visa? How to apply? How much does it cost? Let us find out.
Dubai Freelance Visa is a permit that allows individuals to live and work legally in the UAE as freelancers or independent professionals.
The visa gives non-citizens the right to freelance across various sectors, including technology, media, education, consultancy, and design, without requiring sponsorship from an employer.
It also offers flexibility to work with multiple clients. Valid for one to two years, the visa requires annual renewals.
Read: Millionaires in Dubai – What Makes the City a Global Hub for the Rich?
To be eligible for a Dubai Freelance Visa, the applicant must meet the following criteria:
Here are a few points to keep in mind while applying for your Dubai freelance visa:
Choose the sector in which you want to freelance, such as education, media, design, technology, or consultancy.
Dubai offers freelance licenses through designated free zones, with each free zone having its own list of permitted freelance activities. So, you must select the one that aligns with your profession and apply through that zone.
Some popular free zones include Dubai Knowledge Park, Dubai Media City, Dubai Internet City, and Dubai Design District.
Ensure you have all the required documents with correct and updated information. You need to submit these documents along with your application. The list of documents includes a copy of passport with at least 6 months’ validity, recent passport-sized photographs, academic certificates, proof of work experience, a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your employer (if currently employed), an updated CV, etc.
Apply for a freelance permit online from the selected free zone’s official website. Upload the required documents and pay the permit fee. A freelance permit allows you to work legally as a freelancer in the UAE.
After obtaining the permit, you must apply for an establishment card, which is required for obtaining a residency visa, depending on the free zone.
Submit the visa application form along with the required documents through the free zone portal. Pay the visa fees. You may need to attend a short interview.
Undergo medical fitness tests, biometrics, and apply for an Emirates ID. After you pass the medical tests and your application gets approved, the visa will be issued. You can now legally live and work as a freelancer in the UAE.
The cost of a freelance visa depends on many factors – the duration and type of visa, the free zone through which you apply, additional services, etc.
Here’s a breakdown of the cost:
| Type | Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| Freelance Permit | 7,500 |
| Establishment Card | 2,000 |
| Employment Visa | 3,000 – 7,000 |
| Residence Visa | 3,330 – 6,300 |
| Medical Fitness Tests | 260 – 360 |
| Emirates ID | approx. 100 per year |
| Medical Insurance (optional) | 600 – 1,200 |
| Source | https://dda.gov.ae/ |
While applying for a freelance visa, you need to submit the following documents:
| City | Agency / Consultant | Address / Area | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bangalore | World Visa Consultants (World Visa Group) | Manipal Center, S-101,First Floor, South, 47, Dickenson Rd, Sivanchetti Gardens, Bengaluru - 560042 | +91 70220 90909 |
| Mumbai | Alliance Recruitment Services LLP (Alliance Services) | Alliance Recruitment Services LLP 510/5th Flr, Sai Chamber, Near Best Bus Depot, Santacruz East, Mumbai - 400055 | +91 75064 09888 |
| Delhi | 99Country | 3066, Charke Walan Chowk, Chowri Bazar, Delhi - 11006 | +91 78990 66666 |
| Chennai | Sri Bala Travels Services | 38/7, Welcome Colony, Anna Nagar West, Chennai-600101 | +91 99404 99345 |
Dubai freelance visa offers a wonderful opportunity for entrepreneurs or self-employed individuals to legally live and work as freelancers in the UAE. With numerous business opportunities, flexible work conditions, and tax benefits, Dubai can be the best destination for people looking to work independently.
The maximum validity of a Dubai freelance visa is two years, depending on the free zone. It needs to be renewed annually.
No, you don’t need an employer or sponsor. You can apply for the visa through any of the free zones, which issue freelance permits.
Yes, you can work with multiple clients without being tied to a single employer. However, the work should be within the scope of your licensed activity.
Yes, absolutely. You can sponsor your spouse, children, and dependents, but you must meet the minimum salary requirements as set by the UAE government.
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