The freelancing trend is actively growing in Dubai. People from around the globe seek to secure a residence visa for freelance work in Dubai. There are several options available for such individuals, including the green visa and free zone licenses for freelancing. The cost for these visas can range from AED 7,500 to AED 20,000 based on several factors.
Why choose freelancing in Dubai? Freelancing is a service-based earning opportunity where you can work with multiple clients in flexible hours. Freelancing became a mainstream career option a few years back. Its relevance is only increasing.
The Emirate of Dubai offers freelance permits to attract highly qualified individuals from different fields to work and live in Dubai.
Benefits of Having a Freelance Visa in Dubai, UAE
Freelancing in Dubai comes with many benefits. The following are the major benefits attracting talent from around the globe:
Be Your Own Boss: With a freelancer visa, you can be self-employed. You don’t need to be hired by a company. You can choose the clients and projects to work with.
Live in the UAE: A freelance visa allows 1,2,3, and 5 years legal stay in Dubai. It attracts global talent to come to Dubai and contribute to its economy.
Sponsor Your Family: If you earn enough money, you can sponsor your family to live with you. This means your spouse and children can stay in the UAE too.
Affordable Way to Start: Freelance visas are usually cheaper than setting up a full business. You don’t need a big office or a team. It’s a good way to start small.
Choose Where You Work: You can work from home, a café, or a co-working space. You’re free to set your own schedule and work hours.
No Employer Pressure: You don’t have a boss watching over you. You make your own decisions and manage your time the way you like.
Good for Many Jobs: Freelance visas are great for people in media, tech, design, education, and other creative jobs. Many free zones support these careers.
Access to Banks and Other Services: With this visa, you can open a local bank account and sign up for health insurance. You can also rent a home in your name.
Types of Freelance Visas in Dubai
Free Zone Visas
Freelancers can obtain a freelance residence visa through free zones. Many free zones in Dubai offer freelance permits and visas for multiple fields. You get diverse opportunities. The total cost structure for applying for a freelance permit in Dubai with a free zone can cost between AED 7,500 to AED 20,000. Here’s a characterization of the best options.
Free Zones Offering Freelance Permits:
| Free Zone | Best For | Permit Cost (AED) | Visa Duration | Notes |
| Dubai Media City / Dubai Internet City / Dubai Knowledge Park (GoFreelance) | Media, tech, education professionals | 7,500 | 1 or 2 years | Easy online process; no office needed |
| Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZ) – Talent Pass | Creatives, consultants, international freelancers | 9,500+ | 1 year (renewable) | Higher cost; strong global brand |
| Dubai Design District (d3) | Designers, architects, artists, fashion pros | 7,500 – 9,500 | 1 or 2 years | Good for high-end creative industries |
| Dubai South Free Zone | Events, logistics, e-commerce, media | 7,000 – 9,000 | 1 or 2 years | Family-friendly; near Expo site |
| Ajman Free Zone | General freelancing, remote workers | ~6,000 – 8,000 | 1 or 2 years | One of the cheapest options |
| Shams Free Zone (Sharjah) | Digital marketing, media, IT | 5,750 | 1 or 2 years | Affordable option; close to Dubai |
Green Visas
Green visas provide a long-term residency of 5 years in Dubai. It attracts highly qualified individuals from around the globe to live and work in Dubai and contribute to its economy and diversity. The cost for this permit can range between AED 10,000 – AED 12,000. The following categories of individuals can apply for this visa:
- Skilled Professionals
- Freelancers
- Self-Employed Individuals
- Investors
Eligibility Requirements:
The following are the eligibility requirements for getting the green residency visa in the United Arab Emirates:
- Must have a freelance work permit from MOHRE (Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation)
- Must show proof of income of AED 360,000 over the last 2 years, OR show financial stability
- Must have educational qualifications (bachelor’s degree or specialized diploma)
- Must work in a skilled field (like tech, media, design, education, etc.)
Freelance Permit & Visa Cost Structure
While the total cost for a freelance visa application and success may range between AED 7,500 – AED 20,000, it is important to note the major costs to figure a more precise quote for yourself. Here’s a description of the major costs:
| Cost Item | Description | Estimated Cost (AED) |
| Freelance Permit / License | Allows you to legally work as a freelancer | 7,000 – 9,500 |
| Establishment Card | Needed for visa processing and government filings | 1,500 – 2,500 |
| Entry Permit | Temporary visa to enter the UAE (if applying from abroad) | 1,000 – 1,200 |
| Medical Fitness Test | Health check required for residence visa | 300 – 700 |
| Emirates ID | National ID card issued for all UAE residents | 800 – 1,200 |
| Visa Stamping | Residency visa placed in your passport | 500 – 1,000 |
| Health Insurance | Required by law for all residents | 1,000 – 2,500+ |
| PRO or Service Fees | Optional – if you use an agent or service company | 500 – 2,000 (varies) |
Steps to Obtain a Freelance Visa Dubai
1. Choose a Visa Type and Free Zone
Pick a free zone or the green visa for freelancing in the UAE. For free zones, pick one that fits your work field. Explore the popular options for freelance activities like GoFreelance (by TECOM), Dubai South, DAFZ, etc.
2. Apply for a Freelance Permit
Submit the application to the relevant authority for a freelance permit for work in the UAE. You need to apply with valid paperwork. The documents may include a passport, photo, CV, qualifications, and NOC if needed. Confirm the cost of a freelance visa and pay the fee.
3. Apply for Entry Permit (if outside UAE)
An entry permit is a temporary visa to enter the country. It allows you to come to Dubai and complete the rest of the process. Ensure following the remaining steps on time.
4. Do Medical Test and Biometrics
A medical test is required for all types of residency visas. It includes a blood test, a chest X-ray, and biometrics. It ensures that you are medically capable to come and live healthily in the country.
5. Apply for Emirates ID
An Emirates ID is a national ID for freelancers in the UAE to live as residents. Apply for your Emirates ID with your visa information. Submit the required information, documents, and fee.
6. Visa Stamping in Passport
Once the process is completed and you have all the approvals, the residency visa is stamped in your passport. Now you’re officially a freelancer in Dubai!
Required Documents for Freelancer Visas & Permits in Dubai
While additional documents may be requested as per requirements, the following documents are required from freelancers in the UAE during the application process:
- Passport copy (valid for at least 6 months)
- Passport-size photo (white background)
- Updated CV / Resume
- Medical fitness test report
- Educational certificates (attested, if required)
- Portfolio or work samples (for media/design/creative fields)
- No Objection Certificate (if you’re already employed)
- A valid UAE approved health insurance policy
Hidden Costs of a Freelance Permit in Dubai
When getting a freelance visa in Dubai, there are some extra costs that many people don’t expect. For example, you might have to pay PRO service fees if you seek help with paperwork, getting documents stamped (attested), or writing bank reference letters. It’s a normal practice.
Some free zones also ask you to pay for a shared office or co-working space, even if you work from home. If your freelance income is more than AED 1 million per year, you must pay 9% corporate tax and may register for VAT too.
Also, if you cancel your visa or leave the country, there may be cancellation or refund fees. Keep in mind that your first year is usually more expensive because of setup costs. The second year is cheaper as you only have to pay for renewal and regulation costs. It’s good to plan for these so there are no surprises later.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I apply while staying within the UAE or do I need to leave the country first?
Yes, you can apply while you’re already within the UAE. If you’re outside, you’ll need to enter with a temporary entry pass first.
What is the role of the Dubai Development Authority in freelance activities?
The Dubai Development Authority helps regulate certain free zones and business activities. If you’re working in areas they oversee, your permit might go through them.
Can I start a freelance business without renting an office?
Yes, many free zones don’t require you to have an office. You can run your freelance business from home or a shared space.
What’s the average Dubai cost for setting up this type of work?
The total Dubai cost depends on location and services. It usually ranges from AED 7,500 to AED 20,000 in the first year.
Is it easy to get a permit in the UAE if I’m new to freelancing?
Yes, as long as you have the right documents, experience, or skills. The process for getting a permit in the UAE is simpler than setting up a full company.
Who qualifies as a freelancer in the UAE under this system?
Anyone working in tech, media, design, consulting, or education fields can become a freelancer in the UAE if they meet the requirements.
Are the rules the same across all visa options?
No, different free zones and government visa options have different rules. It depends on where you apply and what type of freelance visa you choose.
What’s the cheapest freelance visa option available right now?
Some zones like Shams and Ajman offer the cheapest freelance visa packages, starting as low as AED 5,750.
How long does the visa allow me to stay in the UAE?
The visa allows you to stay for 1, 2, or even 5 years, depending on which path you choose, either a free zone or green permit.
What happens if I don’t renew your freelance visa on time?
If you forget to renew your freelance visa, you could face fines or visa cancellation. Always plan ahead to renew your freelance visa before it expires.
