30 Best Side Hustles in Dubai to Earn Extra Money in the UAE
 

30 Best Side Hustles in Dubai to Earn Extra Money in the UAE

February 11, 2025by Muhammad Muneeb

People in Dubai seek a side hustle for several reasons majorly including students wanting to work on their skill set, housewives establishing an income stream, or employees seeking extra income, etc. Whatever the motivation, Dubai offers many profitable side hustles.

This guide walks you through the best side hustles in Dubai to earn extra money, exploring diverse fields and niches. You can choose which one fits you most based on your lifestyle, interests and future plans.

Overview of the Best Ways to Earn Money in Dubai

No. Side Hustle Skills Needed Estimated Earnings
1 Freelancing Writing, graphic design, programming, marketing AED 50–500/hour
2 E-Commerce Product sourcing, marketing, logistics management AED 1,000–10,000/month
3 Dropshipping E-commerce setup, marketing, supplier management AED 1,000–20,000/month
4 Social Media Management Content creation, design, analytics, strategy AED 2,000–15,000/month
5 Tutoring and Online Classes Teaching, expertise, communication AED 100–300/hour
6 Virtual Assistant Services Organization, communication, technical skills AED 1,500–10,000/month
7 Ride-Sharing/Delivery Driver Driving skills, local routes knowledge, time mgmt. AED 3,000–8,000/month
8 Photography and Videography Photography, videography, editing skills AED 500–5,000/project
9 Real Estate Brokerage Sales, negotiation, real estate market knowledge AED 5,000–50,000 per deal
10 Personal Fitness Trainer Fitness knowledge, certification, motivational skills AED 150–500/session
11 Affiliate Marketing Content creation, SEO, digital marketing AED 1,000–10,000/month
12 Event Planning and Coordination Organization, budgeting, vendor management AED 5,000–50,000/event
13 Blogging or Vlogging Content creation, video editing, storytelling AED 1,000–50,000/month
14 Handmade Crafts/Art Crafting, creativity, marketing AED 500–5,000/month
15 Pet Sitting or Dog Walking Animal care, reliability, time management AED 1,000–4,000/month
16 Food Business Cooking, packaging, customer service AED 2,000–15,000/month
17 Digital Products Writing, design, specialized expertise AED 1,000–20,000/month
18 Social Media Influencing Content creation, audience engagement, niche expertise AED 5,000–50,000/month
19 Language Translation Services Fluency in multiple languages, attention to detail AED 1,000–8,000/month
20 Tech Repair Services Device repair, technical troubleshooting AED 2,000–10,000/month
21 Stock Trading and Cryptocurrency Financial analysis, market research, risk management AED 1,000–50,000/month
22 Online Gaming and Streaming Gaming expertise, entertainment skills, technical setup AED 500–20,000/month
23 Interior Design and Home Staging Design aesthetics, space planning, client communication AED 3,000–25,000/project
24 Freelance Writing (Articles, Blogs, Copywriting) Writing, research, SEO knowledge AED 500–10,000/month
25 Website Development and Design Web development, coding, design AED 5,000–50,000/project
26 Car Detailing and Cleaning Services Attention to detail, cleaning techniques, customer service AED 2,000–15,000/month
27 Voice-Over Acting Voice modulation, pronunciation, audio editing AED 500–5,000/project
28 Travel Planning and Itinerary Design Planning, research, destination knowledge AED 1,000–10,000/month
29 Personal Shopper or Stylist Fashion sense, shopping expertise, interpersonal skills AED 2,000–15,000/month
30 Eco-Friendly Product Business Product sourcing, branding, marketing AED 2,000–20,000/month
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Best Side Hustles in Dubai, UAE

1. Freelancing (Content Writing, Graphic Design, and More)

If you have a skill, freelancing will enable you to convert your abilities into cash through contract work. The startup and corporate sector in Dubai maintains constant demand for qualified freelancers. People who want supplementary earnings will find this side job perfect since it offers both flexibility and scalability and remote work capabilities. Freelancing presents an opportunity for creative and technical professionals to generate unlimited income since earning potential depends on their specific field of expertise.

Aspect Details
Skills Needed Writing, graphic design, programming, marketing, etc.
Best Platforms Upwork, Fiverr, Nabbesh
Estimated Earnings AED 50–500/hour, depending on skill and project complexity
Getting Started Build a portfolio, create profiles on freelance platforms, and actively pitch for projects.

2. E-Commerce (Selling Products Online)

Aspect Details
Skills Needed Product sourcing, basic marketing, logistics management
Best Platforms Noon, Amazon.ae, Shopify
Estimated Earnings AED 1,000–10,000/month, depending on product and scale
Getting Started Identify trending products, source inventory, set up an online store, and advertise on social media.

3. Dropshipping

Aspect Details
Skills Needed Basic e-commerce setup, marketing, supplier relationship management
Best Platforms Shopify, AliExpress, Oberlo
Estimated Earnings AED 1,000–20,000/month depending on niche and sales
Getting Started Select a profitable niche, set up an online store, find reliable suppliers, and advertise effectively.

4. Social Media Management

Aspect Details
Skills Needed Content creation, graphic design, analytics, and strategy
Best Platforms Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok
Estimated Earnings AED 2,000–15,000/month depending on number of clients
Getting Started Learn social media tools, build a portfolio, and network with businesses or entrepreneurs in Dubai.

5. Tutoring and Online Classes

Aspect Details
Skills Needed Teaching, subject matter expertise, communication skills
Best Platforms Preply, Tutor.com, Wyzant
Estimated Earnings AED 100–300/hour depending on subject and qualifications
Getting Started Identify your teaching niche, register on tutoring platforms, and market your services locally.

6. Virtual Assistant Services

Virtual assistants (VAs) deliver remote assistance for businesses and entrepreneurs in three categories: administrative functions and technical needs and creative work. The fast business speed of Dubai maintains reliable demand for VAs who handle email management and scheduling and perform data entry and social media tasks. The side business gives you control over your working time and directs whom you wish to serve. Organized people who excel in communication along with their ability to multitask will find this option suitable for them.

Aspect Details
Skills Needed Organizational, communication, and technical skills
Best Platforms Upwork, Fiverr, Freelancer
Estimated Earnings AED 1,500–10,000/month depending on workload and clients
Getting Started Create a professional profile, highlight your expertise, and pitch to entrepreneurs or businesses.

7. Ride-Sharing or Delivery Driver

Aspect Details
Skills Needed Driving skills, knowledge of local routes, time management
Best Platforms Uber, Careem, Talabat, Deliveroo
Estimated Earnings AED 3,000–8,000/month depending on hours worked
Getting Started Register on a platform, complete necessary documentation, and start accepting trips or orders.

8. Photography and Videography

Aspect Details
Skills Needed Photography, videography, and editing skills
Best Platforms Instagram, Behance, Shutterstock
Estimated Earnings AED 500–5,000/project depending on the type of assignment
Getting Started Build a portfolio, market your services on social media, and network with event planners.

9. Real Estate Brokerage or Referral

The fast-growing real estate sector of Dubai creates two profitable options which are brokerage work and referral commissions. The process of linking property buyers and renters enables you to collect commission earnings along with eliminating constant real estate administration tasks. The hustle proves successful mainly for people who possess strong networking abilities as well as thorough knowledge about Dubai’s real estate sector. The business model brings financial success to anyone who devotes themselves to property dealing and sales activities.

Aspect Details
Skills Needed Sales, negotiation, and knowledge of the Dubai real estate market
Best Platforms Bayut, Property Finder, Dubizzle
Estimated Earnings AED 5,000–50,000 per deal depending on property value
Getting Started Partner with real estate agencies, attend property events, and leverage your network for leads.

10. Personal Fitness Trainer

Aspect Details
Skills Needed Fitness knowledge, certification, motivational skills
Best Platforms Instagram, ClassPass, gyms in Dubai
Estimated Earnings AED 150–500/session depending on expertise
Getting Started Obtain certifications, promote services on social media, and partner with gyms or wellness centers.

11. Affiliate Marketing

Aspect Details
Skills Needed Content creation, SEO, digital marketing
Best Platforms Amazon Associates, ClickBank, ShareASale
Estimated Earnings AED 1,000–10,000/month depending on traffic and conversion rates
Getting Started Choose a niche, create valuable content, sign up for affiliate programs, and start promoting links.

12. Event Planning and Coordination

Aspect Details
Skills Needed Organization, budgeting, vendor management
Best Platforms Social media, word of mouth, event planning websites
Estimated Earnings AED 5,000–50,000/event depending on size and complexity
Getting Started Build a portfolio of events, network with vendors and venues, and market your services online.

13. Blogging or Vlogging

Aspect Details
Skills Needed Content creation, video editing, storytelling
Best Platforms YouTube, Instagram, WordPress
Estimated Earnings AED 1,000–50,000/month depending on audience size and sponsorships
Getting Started Choose a niche, create engaging content, and consistently promote your work on social media.

14. Handmade Crafts or Art

Aspect Details
Skills Needed Crafting, creativity, marketing
Best Platforms Etsy, Instagram, Ripe Market
Estimated Earnings AED 500–5,000/month depending on sales
Getting Started Create unique products, set up an online store, and participate in local craft markets.

15. Pet Sitting or Dog Walking

Aspect Details
Skills Needed Animal care, reliability, and time management
Best Platforms Pawshake, Dubizzle, social media
Estimated Earnings AED 1,000–4,000/month depending on services provided
Getting Started Sign up on pet-sitting platforms, build a trustworthy profile, and promote your services locally.

16. Food Business (Homemade or Specialty Foods)

Aspect Details
Skills Needed Cooking, packaging, customer service
Best Platforms Instagram, Zomato, Talabat
Estimated Earnings AED 2,000–15,000/month depending on volume and product
Getting Started Develop a menu, ensure food safety compliance, promote your offerings, and start taking orders.

17. Digital Products (E-books, Templates, Courses)

Aspect Details
Skills Needed Writing, design, or specialized expertise
Best Platforms Gumroad, Teachable, Canva
Estimated Earnings AED 1,000–20,000/month depending on product and audience
Getting Started Identify your expertise, create valuable digital products, and market them through social media or email.

18. Social Media Influencing

Aspect Details
Skills Needed Content creation, audience engagement, niche expertise
Best Platforms Instagram, TikTok, YouTube
Estimated Earnings AED 5,000–50,000/month depending on followers and partnerships
Getting Started Choose a niche, consistently post high-quality content, and engage with your audience.

19. Language Translation Services

Aspect Details
Skills Needed Fluency in multiple languages, attention to detail
Best Platforms ProZ, Upwork, Freelancer
Estimated Earnings AED 1,000–8,000/month depending on projects
Getting Started Create an online profile, highlight your language skills, and start applying for translation gigs.

20. Tech Repair Services (Gadgets and Devices)

Aspect Details
Skills Needed Device repair, technical troubleshooting
Best Platforms Dubizzle, social media, word of mouth
Estimated Earnings AED 2,000–10,000/month depending on volume and type of repairs
Getting Started Acquire tools, advertise your services, and network with local residents or businesses needing repairs.

21. Stock Trading and Cryptocurrency

Aspect Details
Skills Needed Financial analysis, market research, risk management
Best Platforms eToro, Binance, Robinhood
Estimated Earnings AED 1,000–50,000/month depending on market performance
Getting Started Learn market basics, create an account on trading platforms, and start with small investments.

22. Online Gaming and Streaming

Aspect Details
Skills Needed Gaming expertise, entertainment skills, technical setup
Best Platforms Twitch, YouTube Gaming, Facebook Gaming
Estimated Earnings AED 500–20,000/month depending on audience size and sponsorships
Getting Started Invest in quality streaming equipment, create engaging content, and grow your audience online.

23. Interior Design and Home Staging

Aspect Details
Skills Needed Design aesthetics, space planning, client communication
Best Platforms Houzz, Instagram, LinkedIn
Estimated Earnings AED 3,000–25,000/project depending on property size
Getting Started Build a design portfolio, market your services on social media, and collaborate with realtors.

24. Freelance Writing (Articles, Blogs, Copywriting)

Aspect Details
Skills Needed Writing, research, SEO knowledge
Best Platforms Upwork, Fiverr, LinkedIn
Estimated Earnings AED 500–10,000/month depending on volume and expertise
Getting Started Build a portfolio, pitch your services to companies, and network with local businesses.

25. Website Development and Design

Aspect Details
Skills Needed Web development, coding, design
Best Platforms WordPress, Wix, Upwork
Estimated Earnings AED 5,000–50,000/project depending on complexity
Getting Started Build a portfolio of websites, market your services online, and reach out to small businesses.

26. Car Detailing and Cleaning Services

Aspect Details
Skills Needed Attention to detail, cleaning techniques, and customer service
Best Platforms Social media, word of mouth, local classified ads
Estimated Earnings AED 2,000–15,000/month depending on clients and volume
Getting Started Invest in cleaning supplies, advertise in high-traffic areas, and offer competitive rates.

27. Voice-Over Acting

Aspect Details
Skills Needed Voice modulation, pronunciation, and audio editing
Best Platforms Voices.com, Fiverr, Upwork
Estimated Earnings AED 500–5,000/project depending on scope and client
Getting Started Set up a basic recording studio at home, create a demo reel, and register on voice-over platforms.

28. Travel Planning and Itinerary Design

The business grows by customer referrals and social media promotion with little start-up costs.

Aspect Details
Skills Needed Planning, research, and destination knowledge
Best Platforms Social media, travel forums, TripAdvisor
Estimated Earnings AED 1,000–10,000/month depending on clients and complexity of plans
Getting Started Promote your services online, partner with travel agencies, and build a portfolio of itineraries.

29. Personal Shopper or Stylist

Aspect Details
Skills Needed Fashion sense, shopping expertise, and interpersonal skills
Best Platforms Instagram, LinkedIn, personal website
Estimated Earnings AED 2,000–15,000/month depending on clients and service level
Getting Started Build a portfolio showcasing your styling skills, network with affluent clients, and promote your services.

30. Eco-Friendly Product Business

Aspect Details
Skills Needed Product sourcing, branding, and marketing
Best Platforms Shopify, Instagram, Ripe Market
Estimated Earnings AED 2,000–20,000/month depending on product and demand
Getting Started Source sustainable products, set up an online store, and promote through eco-conscious campaigns.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are some great side hustles in the Emirate of Dubai to earn extra income in 2024?

Dubai offers many lucrative side gigs in 2024, including freelance writing, online course creation, website development, and selling eco-friendly products. These options allow you to make online money, whether through passive earning streams or active services in high demand. Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Shopify can help you get started and earn extra cash in Dubai.

2. How can I make money online from home in Dubai?

There are several methods to earn money online in Dubai from the comfort of your home. You can take on part-time gigs like completing online surveys, teaching online courses, or engaging in stock trading and cryptocurrency. These are great ways to make money online while building a side business in Dubai. Platforms like eToro, Binance, and Udemy are excellent starting points.

3. What’s a great way to earn extra income with little investment?

If you’re looking for a way to earn extra income with minimal investment, consider online gigs such as blogging, affiliate marketing, or becoming a virtual assistant. These side hustles like freelance writing or offering social media management services in Dubai and Abu Dhabi are high in demand and allow you to earn extra money with flexible hours.

4. Can I earn passive income with a side gig in Dubai?

Yes, you can earn passive income in Dubai through opportunities like investing in dividend-paying stocks, creating digital products (e.g., eBooks or online courses), or renting out property. These are great ways to make money on the side, especially for those looking for long-term and consistent ways to earn extra income in the UAE.

5. Which platforms can I use to start a side hustle in Dubai?

Popular platforms to start your side hustle in the UAE include:

  • For freelancing: Upwork, Fiverr, and LinkedIn.
  • For e-commerce: Shopify, Amazon UAE, and Noon.
  • For trading: eToro and Binance.
    These platforms allow you to make extra money from home while connecting with clients or customers locally and globally.

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Muhammad Muneeb