Do you want to work as a freelancer in Dubai? Dubai is a great place for freelancers in media, IT, education, design and more. The city offers a good income, a modern lifestyle and no income tax for self-employed people.

A freelance visa allows you to live and work in Dubai without the need for a company job. You can apply through different free zones based on your field of work. It is a legal and easy way to earn and live in Dubai.

People from India and other countries choose Dubai to expand their freelance work. You can work in fields such as education, marketing, film, events or technology. The process of getting a freelance visa is simple and does not take much time.

We guide you in choosing the right free zone, preparing your papers and managing costs. If you want freedom, a good income, and global work, Dubai is the right place to start.

What Is a Freelance Visa?

A freelance visa lets you work for yourself without hiring the company. In the UAE, this visa helps people from different fields to work alive and legally. It is a good option for teachers, designers, writers, tech workers, and other self-employed people who want to thrive in the UAE’s robust market. This visa gives you the freedom to work on your own while complying with the country’s regulations.

Types of Freelance Visas in Dubai

If you want to work as a freelancer in Dubai, there are three main ways to get a freelance visa:

• Freelance Permit from Free Zones (this comes with a visa from that Free Zone)

• Green Visa for Freelancers (a 5-year visa that you sponsor yourself)

• Remote Work Visa (a 1-year visa for people working online for a company in another country)

Each option has sub-types created by different Free Zones or offices. Below, we explain these in detail, including popular visas such as the Dubai Talent Pass, the Investor or Freelancer Visa, and a special Freelance Permit for Women.

Freelance Visa Dubai Requirements

This visa allows people to live in Dubai and work as freelancers or independent workers. It also gives them a residence permit and the opportunity to sponsor their family.

But to get a freelance visa in Dubai, you must follow some rules. If you are planning to stay for a long time, you can also consider buying a flat in Dubai. It gives you both a stable place to live and a good way to invest while working as a freelancer in the UAE.

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Eligibility Criteria

• Must be at least 18 years old.

• Must have a valid passport.

• Must have no criminal record.

• Copy of passport.

• Must have passed a medical fitness test.

• Educational certificates.

• Updated CV.

• Passport photos.

• Copies of previous visas (if you are a UAE resident).

• Copy of Emirates ID (for UAE residents).

• Portfolio of work required for designers.

• Proof of income.

• Required documents

• Your application form

• Should provide an educational qualification such as a university degree or diploma.

• Two years of freelancing experience in your field.

• Earn a minimum annual income of AED 360,000.

Benefits of Freelance Visa Dubai

Freelancing offers many benefits that are often not available in regular jobs. Here are some of the key benefits of having a freelance visa in Dubai.

With a freelance visa, you can work with multiple companies and in different fields. You don’t have to stick to one job or boss.

Freelancers often enjoy more free time and a better work-life balance.

You can earn more money by choosing projects that match your skills.

A freelance visa in Dubai allows you to take advantage of business opportunities in your chosen free zone.

It also saves money for companies looking to hire freelancers.

Freelance Visa Cost

The cost of a freelance visa in Dubai depends on its type and whether the person is already residing in the UAE or not. For example, the cost of a freelance permit is around AED 7,500 for both new and renewal cases. Additionally, the establishment card for a freelance visa in Dubai costs AED 2,000. There are also other charges for a residence visa and a sponsor permit. Below is the complete freelance visa cost including insurance, permit, card and all fees:

• One-year visa: AED 4,381
• Two-year visa: AED 4,750

Cost Analysis

Freelance visas are not very expensive. You will have to spend around AED 20,000 to get your freelance visa. Total cost for freelance visa in Dubai:

• Freelance work permit: AED 7,500
• Establishment card fee: AED 6,000
• Medical test charge: AED 320
• Entry permit cost: AED 1,150
• Residency visa cost: AED 5,460

How to Apply for a Freelance Visa in Dubai

Want to work as a freelancer in Dubai? Here is a simple step-by-step guide to help you get your freelance visa:

1. Choose Your Freelance Category

Dubai offers freelance visas in a variety of sectors. First, choose the category that matches your work. Some of the most common ones are:

• Technology: If you are a web developer, software specialist, or IT worker.

• Media and Entertainment: For photographers, video editors, writers, and media people.

• Education: Teachers, trainers, and education consultants fall under this group.

• Design and Art: If you are an artist, graphic designer, or work in a creative field.

Before you get started, make sure your job qualifies under one of these freelance categories.

2. Have Your Documents Ready

To apply for a visa, you will need to show a few documents. This usually includes:

• A valid passport (with at least 6 months remaining)

• A passport-sized photo

• Proof of your work or skills such as a degree, certificate or work samples

• A completed application form

3. Apply through a free zone or media hub

You must apply through a free zone or media hub in Dubai. Some popular ones are:

• Dubai Media City: Best for media professionals, content creators and marketers.

• Dubai Silicon Oasis: Great for tech professionals and IT freelancers.

• Dubai Design District: Perfect for designers, artists and creatives.

These zones help you with visas and also offer workspaces and events.

4. Submit Your Application

Once you have chosen the best free zone for your job, you can apply. Give them your documents and attend a short meeting if needed.

They will check your details and may ask for more information. Depending on your case, this step may take a few weeks.

5. Get Your Freelance Visa

If your application is approved, you will get your freelance visa. This visa is usually valid for 1 to 3 years. With it, you can live and work in Dubai as a freelancer.

6. Complete The Final Steps

After getting your visa, complete the final steps. This includes getting your Emirates ID, residence permit, and a local bank account. These things will help you settle in Dubai and work easily.

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Get a UAE Freelance Permit with DBS Group

If you want to live and work as a freelancer in the UAE, the UAE freelance permit is a great choice. Before you go to the UAE, you need to know about the type of visa, how to apply and other important things. Therefore, it is a good idea to work with a reliable business setup team like DBS Group.

Our team helps you each step from choosing the right visa for all papers such as renewal and pro services. This way you can focus on your freelance work and increase your business in UAE.

Talk to us today and start the freelance journey stress-free.