UAE is a very attractive destination in the world, it provides freelancers with tax-free income regime, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and several free zones that help freelancer professionals. To be a freelancer and to work legally in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or any other position in the Emirates you must have freelance visa and permit. This is how you should go about doing it.
What Is a Freelance Visa in the UAE?
The freelance visa will enable you to stay and legally perform your duties in the UAE as a freelance worker. It is provided by different free zones and governmental platforms and can be issued to residents (those, who would like to receive a permit) and non-residents (those, who would require a visa and a permit).
You will no longer be working under a company but your own name and you can have several clients without having an employer.
Who Can Apply for a Freelance Visa?
The freelance visas usually are given to individuals working in the following professions:
- Media (writers, designers and photographers)
- Tech (We developers, coders, IT consultants)
- Trainers/Tutors/E-learning specialists
- Business consulting
- Promotion and social media
You do not have to start a company to apply – it is an easier path in case of the solo professionals.
Required Documents for Freelance Visa
The following are the documents in general:
- A passport copy (6+ months)
- White background passport-size photograph
- Curriculum vitae (CV)
- Portfolio or samples of works (artists)
- Certificates of studies (certified when required)
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) of the existing sponsor (In case you are a resident of UAE)
- Application form of freelance permit
Note: Other supporting documents will be required based on the free zone you are filing your application.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for a Freelance Visa in UAE
Step 1: Choose the Free Zone or Authority
Some of the common websites with freelance permits/visas:
- GoFreelance (Dubai) – courtesy of Dubai Development Authority and TECOM
- 2four54 (Abu Dhabi)
- RAKEZ (Ras Al Khaimah)
- Fujairah The Creative City
- Ajman Free Zone
They both differ in prices and eligibility depending on the profession you are in.
Step 2: Apply for the Freelance Permit
First, a freelance permit is a permit that gives you permission in law to work on your own. This is required with and without residence visa.
Submit via free zones online business setup system or via online. Once filed, it can be given the green light within 5-10 working days.
Step 3: Apply for the Freelance Visa (If You’re Not a UAE Resident)
As soon as your permit has been approved, you will be able to petition a residency visa (2 years validity). This involves:
- Entry visa (in case of an outside UAE application)
- Medical test
- Application of Emirates ID
- Passport stamping Visa
You will be issued with your residence visa to the UAE, and now you can start living and working there.
Step 4: Open a UAE Bank Account and Start Working
With a visa and permit in hands, you will be able to:
- Take out a personal or freelancer bank account
- Apply (where necessary in international employment) to be tax resident
- Invoice internationally and in the UAE legally
How Much Does a Freelance Visa Cost in UAE?
Here’s a breakdown of typical freelance visa and permit costs (as of 2025):
| Service | Estimated Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| Freelance permit (1 year) | 7,000 – 10,000 |
| UAE residence visa (2 years) | 4,000 – 5,000 |
| Emirates ID & medical test | 1,500 – 2,000 |
| Total package (permit + visa) | 10,000 – 15,000 |
Prices vary by free zone and inclusions like office space or PRO services.
