If you are tired of your 9-5 job, switch to becoming a freelancer in Dubai and make one of your best career moves! However, the question here is, How! Well, read on to find out.
What Does It Take To Become A Legal Freelancer In The UAE?
Let’s start from scratch. Back in November 2020, the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) declared that all UAE residents and non-UAE residents can apply for a Dubai freelance visa. Under the new law, freelancers are permitted to live and work in the UAE. Applicants can easily apply for residency visas for their families and themselves.
However, the question here is, what does it take to become a legal freelancer in the UAE. Well, individuals need to secure a residence visa and work permit along with the requirement noted below.
- For UAE Residents: In case you are a UAE resident on your parent’s/spouse’s visa, you require a freelancer visa to begin with your work. In fact, full-time working professionals are also eligible to become freelancers by obtaining a license. To apply for the visa, you need to have proof of your matching skill set along with the permission of any employer in case you consider freelancing as passive income.
- For UAE Non-Residents: In case you are a Non-UAE resident, you need to apply for a freelancer visa. But before that, make sure you secure your residency permit.
Your Options
As UAE residents/non-residents, individuals have several options to select from to consider the freelancing career. Many free zone options provide a freelance permit that will help them to attain their residency visa besides sponsoring their family. Each process will occur online. However, the choice of free-zone should depend on the industry/sector/activity.
Freelance Visa-Free Zones
As discussed above, several free zones offer freelance visas today. Some include,
- Dubai Production City
- Abu Dhabi’s twofour54
- Dubai Media City
- Ras Al Khaimah Economic Free Zone
- Ajman Free zone
- Dubai Design District
- Umm Al Quwain Free Trade Zone
- Fujairah Creative City
Costs Of Free Zones
Generally, the cost of free zones keeps varying depending on your business requirements and regulations. Ideally, the cost ranges between AED 7500 and AED 20,000. However, individuals should renew the permit annually. The cost generally depends on whether you need a 1 year/3 year residence visa or just a permit to start with your employment as a freelancer in the UAE.
In case you are a UAE resident on your parent’s or spouse’s visa you are not required to dismiss/cancel your present residence visa to acquire a new one.
Conclusion
Obtaining a Dubai freelance visa serves tremendous benefits. Besides offering you the flexibility and license to work for multiple firms, the freelance permit renders you a golden opportunity to start working as a sole practitioner/independent contractor in UAE.
That said, if you are still wondering how to obtain your freelance visa at the earliest, reach out to the leading professionals or Emirabiz and get expert solutions and guidance today.