What is a Dubai Freelance Visa? 

The Dubai Freelance Visa is a work permit for freelancers from foreign countries willing to migrate and work independently in Dubai and in any of the seven emirates of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This visa allows foreign professionals to stay and provide freelancing services or run a legal freelance business in Dubai for up to two years, and it has to be renewed annually.  

In January 2022, the Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZ) launched the Dubai Freelance Visa initiative to attract skilled professionals worldwide willing to provide professional freelance services and do legal business in the UAE. This visa program aims to bring experienced professionals in media, technology, business consulting, marketing, education, and creative arts sectors.

Dubai Freelance visa holders can live and work independently within the Dubai Airport Free Zone, one of the most prestigious free zones in the world. Freelancing in Dubai offers several benefits, including flexible working hours, tax-free income, high-earning potential, and global exposure. With Dubai emerging as the world’s top freelancing hub, the Dubai Freelance visa benefits foreign talents willing to work in Dubai. 

Looking to work as a freelancer in Dubai? Learn about the Dubai Freelancer Visa requirements to get started!

Why apply for a Dubai Freelance Visa?

The Dubai Freelance Visa offers a gateway to many benefits mentioned below: 

1. Work and live in Dubai as a legal resident: With a Dubai Freelance Visa, you can live and work in Dubai legally as a self-employed person or independent contractor. The visa offers flexibility to those who are willing to explore the job market in the UAE but do not want to take up full-time employment in a company.
    
2. Affordable entry option to the UAE job market: The Dubai Freelance Visa acts as a low-cost gateway to the UAE business ecosystem. The cost of a Dubai Freelance Visa is around AED 7,500, which is much more affordable than setting up a business or applying for the UAE Golden Visa. The Dubai Freelance Visa allows holders to start a legal business or freelance in industries like media, education, technology, etc., with a minimal investment.
    
3. Access to the robust business market of the UAE: Dubai and the UAE are rising as global business hubs with a growing demand for freelance professionals. Freelancers are in demand across various sectors, such as IT and tech, design and creative services, marketing, and education. The Dubai Freelance Visa offers easy access to the lucrative job market and helps freelancers connect with top-tier agencies, businesses, and clients.
    
4. Independence and Flexibility: Unlike traditional work visas, the Dubai Freelance Visa allows you to choose multiple clients and personalize shift timings. This self-reliance intrigues digital nomads, consultants, and remote workers who prioritize independence and flexible work options.
    
5. Direct path to gain Long-term residency:  The Dubai Freelance Visa can lead to long-term residence in the UAE. Dubai Freelance Visa holders can later apply for the UAE Golden Visa to set up a full-fledged business and settle as permanent residents in the UAE.
    
6. Sponsor family members to the UAE: Dubai Freelance Visa holders can sponsor their spouse, children, and other members, such as domestic help, upon meeting the income requirement, thereby offering a practical option for freelancers willing to relocate with their families.
   
    
7. Local sponsors not needed: The Dubai Freelance visa allows eligible applicants to migrate to Dubai without requiring a local sponsor. This facilitates complete ownership of earnings and work without relying on anyone else.
    
8. Access to Banking and financial services in the UAE: Candidates with a Dubai Freelance Visa can open a bank account in the UAE to receive payment for their work or conduct business there. They can also apply for credit cards, personal loans, and other financial services, just like UAE residents.
    
9. Workspace flexibility: Freelancers in the UAE can use co-working spaces, work in a professional environment, or work from home, as the Dubai Freelance Work Visa allows them to work from anywhere. The UAE has excellent infrastructure, and many free zones provide co-working packages, along with the freelance visa, which offers access to a professional environment at an affordable rate.
    
10. Chance to build a professional network: Freelance visa holders in the UAE can attend networking events, meet-ups, and conferences, which can help them build professional networks with industrial giants.
     
11. Visa-free travel across the region: Dubai Freelance Visa holders can eventually apply for a UAE residence visa, which allows visa-free travel to Middle Eastern countries on visa-on-arrival facilities. This benefits freelancers who are willing to establish a business in neighboring countries like Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Qatar.
     
12. Healthcare and Medical Insurance Benefits: The UAE extends its advanced healthcare service to Dubai Freelance Visa holders, making them eligible to apply for mandatory health insurance policies and allowing them to enjoy world-class medical facilities in the UAE.
     
13. Increases credibility: Among other benefits, the Dubai Freelance Visa increases freelancers' credibility in international deals with clients in the UAE. The visa also implies reliability, professionalism, and a commitment to the region.
     
14. Pathway to future job opportunities: The Dubai Freelance Visa can open doors to lucrative job opportunities in the UAE for freelancers willing to take up full-time employment in the country. The professional work experience gained on a freelance can help leverage their skills while applying for job offers in the UAE.
     
15. No income tax on personal earnings: The UAE has zero-income tax policies for all its residents and visa holders, which allows freelancers in Dubai to retain 100% of their earnings.
     
16. Global exposure to events and opportunities: The UAE, a major business hub, often hosts significant events like Expo, GITEX, and design festivals, offering global exposure to freelancers. Dubai Freelance Visa holders in sectors like technology, business, design, and creative industries can use these events to showcase and market their skills and stay ahead of their competitors.
     
17. International acknowledgment of UAE Freelance License: The Dubai Freelance License has a high standing in the global market, which makes it easier for holders to get projects from top-tier companies worldwide. The Dubai Freelance visa adds value to the resume and establishes freelancers as trusted professionals.
     
18. Fast-track processing and minimal paperwork: A Dubai Freelance Visa takes 10-30 days to process and requires minimal documentation for the application, making it attractive for freelancers willing to start working in the UAE quickly.
     

Eligibility Criteria for a Dubai Freelance Visa

You would be eligible to apply for the Dubai Freelance Visa if you:

1. Are aged above 21 years
2. Have a valid and original passport
3. Have a valid entry permit to Dubai
4. Have a university degree or diploma
5. Professionals with relevant skills in sectors such as media, education, technology, and design.
6. Have a minimum freelancing work experience of 2 years
7. No salary requirement 
8. Medical fitness test reports
9. No criminal records

Who can apply for a Dubai Freelance Visa? 

The Dubai Freelancer Visa allows you to work in the following job sectors in Dubai:

Tech	Media	Design
Architecture Freelancer	Actor	Apparel Designer
Customer Service Freelancer	Aerial Shoot Photographer	Concept Designer
Data Science	Animator	Costume Designer
Analytics Freelancer	Artist	Fashion Artist
IT	Audio	Fashion Designer
Telecommunication	Brand Consultant	Hair Stylist
Software Development and more	Cameraman	Interior Designer
Education	Choreographer	Image Consultant
Education Advisor	Commentators	Jewellery Designer
eLearning Advisor	Composer	Make-up Artist
Executive Coaching	Content Provider	Object Designer
Researcher	Copywriter	Personal Shopper
Trainer	Creative Director	Textile Designer
		Visual Merchandiser
		Wedding Planner

 

Dubai Freelance Visa Cost and Processing Times

The total cost of the Dubai Freelance Visa can vary depending on the free zone you choose. The following are the free zones in Dubai to choose from:

1. Dubai Media City
2. Dubai Internet City
3. Dubai Design District
4. Dubai Knowledge Park

The table below provides the breakdown of Dubai Freelance Visa Costs:

Type of Fee	Amount (in AED)
Application Fees	AED 7,500
Establishment Card	AED 2,000
Residence Visa Fee	AED 3,500
Optional Medical Insurance Fees	AED 700
Total (approx.)	AED 13,700

The Dubai Freelance Visa has a processing time of around 8 to 10 days.

What key problems does the Dubai Freelance Visa solve?

1. The Dubai Freelance Visa legally authorizes the holders to stay and work in the UAE without requiring a local sponsor.
2. In comparison with setting up a company, the visa offers a low-cost entry option to tap into the UAE job market.
3. The visa offers flexibility and independence to choose from a wide range of industries and multiple employers.
4. It streamlines the process of acquiring residency and work permits in the UAE.
    

How is the Dubai Freelance Visa different from other visas?

Unlike other visas that focus on work or study options, the Dubai Freelance Visa allows independent professionals to prioritize flexibility and run their own freelance business legally without tying up with any employer.
 

What are the top 5 benefits of the Dubai Freelance Visa?

1. Flexible work opportunities: Independence to choose and work with multiple employers
2. Zero Income Tax payable: Enjoy a tax-free environment and keep 100% of your earnings
3. No restrictions on work and residence: Live and work from anywhere in the UAE without needing any local sponsor
4. Sponsor your family: Bring your spouse, children, or domestic staff by sponsoring them to join you in the UAE.
5. Quick processing of Residence and Work permits: Avail fast-track processing of UAE Work visas and Residence Permits.
    

What are the key features of the Dubai Freelance Visa?

1. Live and work in the UAE as an independent contractor or a self-employed person.
2. Work from anywhere in the UAE, including co-working spaces, professional offices, or from the comfort of your home.
3. Valid for up to 2 years and can renewed once a year
4. Open a bank account and avail of other financial services
5. Flexible work timings and workspaces
6. Sponsor your family members to the UAE
7. Become an NRI and claim tax benefits
8. Potential pathway to long-term residency via programs like the Golden visa

What are the main benefits in terms of employment and project opportunities?

1. Legalized  residence and work authorization in the UAE
2. Low-cost and streamlined process compared to setting up a business
3. Independence to choose from multiple workers
4. Explore the robust job market of the UAE
    

What are the financial benefits and conveniences with this Freelance Visa? 

1) Financial Benefits

a) Tax-free income

b) Cost-effective entry into the UAE job market

2) Convenience Benefits

a) Physical Office Space Not Required

b) Can work from various locations

3) Efficiency

a) Faster processing times of around 14 days

b) Easy application process with step-by-step professional guidance
 

Documents Required for a Dubai Freelancer Visa

The documents required to apply for a Dubai Freelancer Visa are listed below:

1. Valid and original passport with a minimum validity of 6 months
2. Passport-sized pictures
3. Dubai Freelance Permit issued by MoHRE
4. Educational transcripts, including degree certificates
5. Proof of relevant work experience
6. No Objection Certificate from employer (If currently employed)
7. Proof of sufficient financial resources
8. Accommodation details in Dubai
9. Medical test results
10. Police Clearance Certificate
11. Health Insurance Details
12. Personal documents to prove your nationality and civil status
13. Updated CV or resume

How to apply for a Dubai Freelance Visa?

To apply for a Dubai Freelance visa, you must apply for a Dubai Freelance Permit issued by the Dubai Development Authority. This permit allows you to enter Dubai as a legal immigrant and apply for a Dubai Freelance Visa to start working as a freelancer in the country. Dubai Freelance Visa application involves the following steps:

Step 1: Determine the job sector you want to work in

Step 2: Arrange all the documents required

Step 3: Fill out the visa application form online

Step 4: Complete the fee payment

Step 5: Wait for visa approval

Step 6: Fly to Dubai, UAE
 

How to renew a Dubai Freelance Visa? 

The Dubai Freelance Visa is valid for two years, but it must be renewed annually. The renewal process for a Dubai Freelance Visa can take around 2 to 3 weeks. The cost of issuing and renewing the Dubai Freelance Visa also depends on the free zone, but the cost can range between AED 7,500 and AED 15,000. You must provide your current Freelance Visa along with all the documents required for the Dubai Freelance Visa application.

The steps to follow to renew the Dubai Freelance Visa are listed below:

Step 1: Fill out the renewal application form

Step 2: Gather and arrange all the documents required

Step 3: Complete medical fitness test

Step 4: Pay the renewal fee

Step 5: Wait for the visa to be renewed

Step 6: Collect your Dubai Freelance visa

Once your visa renewal application is approved, you will receive an e-mail notification, which can take 10-15 days. 
 

The job market in Dubai for Freelancers

Dubai is emerging as one of the world's largest freelancer hubs, with more than 68,000 freelance jobs in the UAE. Data shows that the average monthly salary of a freelancer in Dubai is AED 5,000- AED 7,500.

 

Tips for Freelancers in Dubai

Here are some tips for freelancers in Dubai:

• Register and create a profile on Freelance Permits
• Network with professionals in your field
• Market your services
• Open a corporate bank account for business transactions
• Be informed about UAE’s business and Cultural practices
• Make use of co-working spaces available
• Keep upskilling yourself 
   

The Dubai Freelance Visa offers a wonderful opportunity for young professionals planning to work in one of the most vibrant job markets in the world. Freelancing allows you to take complete charge of your career, letting you prioritize flexibility and independence. The Dubai Freelance Visa gives you numerous benefits, including affordability, tax-free income, and family sponsorship, and it even paves the way for Emirates ID to settle in the UAE.
 

Comparison between Dubai Freelance Visa and Setting up a Company in Dubai

Feature	Dubai Freelance Visa	Company Setup
Cost	Low entry cost and minimal renewal fees which makes it a practical option for new and young entrepreneurs	High setup expenses, including costs of licensing, registration, and rent, along with recurring annual fees.
Ownership	Complete ownership and control without requiring any sponsor or employer	Can offer 100% ownership but might involve certain formalities
Time to Start	Faster processing times lead to the quick starting of businesses and services	Multiple approvals and paperwork can lead to delays in starting businesses and services
Legal Requirements	Only a freelance permit and a visa are required	Requires trade license, office lease, regulatory approvals, and the like
Work Scope	Ideal for freelancers, independent contractors, and consultants	Perfect for large units like retail or manufacturing
Office Requirement	No compulsory requirement for a physical workspace	Physical or virtual office space is a mandatory requirement
Operational Flexibility	Complete flexibility with working hours and working resources	Little or no operational flexibility, which is typically suited to a fixed business model
Tax Benefits	No income tax on personal earnings	Also benefits from zero corporate tax (for now), but future regulations may apply.
On-going Compliance	Requires fewer audits and reporting	Regular audits, renewals, and financial reporting are required
Team Size	Perfect for solo entrepreneurs and small teams	Perfect for large units requiring many employees
Visa Sponsorships	Allows you to sponsor spouse, children, close family members, and two employees within the same free zone	Can sponsor more employees at a higher cost per visa
Market Entry	Low-cost and easy market entry without much hassle	Pricey alternative to entering the job market involving legal formalities and setup delays
Scalability	Gradual scalability	Rapid scalability
Risk Level	Low risk owing to minimal investment	High risk due to operational expenses and higher upfront cost
Networking and Credibility	Increases credibility of freelancers, which helps in cracking international deals with clients in the UAE	Offers high credibility for established businesses but also needs more capital for trust-building
Freedom of Work	Freedom to choose from multiple clients	Must adhere to the specific business activity
Ideal for	Freelancers, self-employed people, entrepreneurs willing to prioritize flexibility and independence	Business professionals have large capital and are willing to expand or build operational business

 

How can Y-Axis help you?

Y-Axis is the world’s No.1 overseas immigration consultancy. Our team of experts will help you with the following services:

• Expert guidance with acquiring and maintaining the Dubai Freelance Visa
• Step-by-step assistance with getting a Lease Agreement and an Establishment Card
• Personalized assistance  with applying for a UAE Residence Visa
• Support with setting up a UAE Bank Account
• End-to-end assistance with family sponsorship
• Providing templates to help you fill out applications and forms
• Expert advice on setting up a business and networking in the UAE
   

Why choose Y-Axis?

• Dedicated consultant to help you with the application process
• End-to-end guidance with the application process
• Guidance with arranging the document checklist
• Personalized consultation to understand your eligibility
• Access to a dedicated support team for queries and assistance