Are you considering a freelance career in Dubai? Our comprehensive guide is here to help you navigate the intricacies of obtaining a Freelance visa in this dynamic city. From understanding how to get a Freelance Visa in Dubai, to mastering the application process and budgeting for associated costs, we’ve got you covered.
This guide offers step-by-step instructions, legal insights, and expert tips to help you choose the perfect Free Zone to match your professional aspirations. Whether your passion lies in consultancy, event management, education, film production, or the media and entertainment industry, this guide will set you on the path to freelance success in Dubai.
What is a Freelance Visa?
A freelance visa is designed for individuals seeking the flexibility to work independently without being tied to a single employer. In the UAE, this visa enables professionals from a variety of sectors to offer their services legally while residing in the region. It’s an ideal solution for consultants, educators, artists, tech experts, and other self-employed professionals looking to harness the UAE’s dynamic business environment. Freelance visas promote entrepreneurial freedom while maintaining alignment with local regulations.
Types of Freelance Visas in Dubai
When it comes to freelancing in Dubai, there are three core legal frameworks you can use to obtain a freelance visa:
1. Free Zone Freelance Permits (plus a Residence Visa is sponsored by that free zone)
2. Green Visa for Freelancers (5-year, self-sponsored residence)
3. Remote Work Visa (1-year visa for those working for companies abroad)
Under these umbrellas, there are various “sub-brands” or specialised options offered by individual free zones or authorities. Below, we break them down in detail, including those subcategories you may have heard about (e.g., Dubai Talent Pass, Investor/Freelance Visa, Freelance Permit for Women).
1. Free Zone Freelance Permits
A Free Zone Freelance Permit is a versatile option for foreign nationals looking to work independently in Dubai. This path offers the flexibility to work on multiple projects across various sectors. Once you obtain the freelance permit (often referred to as a licence), the free zone becomes your visa sponsor, allowing you to apply for a residence visa under the free zone’s name.
- Cost Range: Typically AED 7,500 to AED 20,000 (USD 2,040 to 5,400) depending on the chosen package and free zone services.
- Typical Duration: The residence visa is often valid for 2-3 years, renewable upon expiry, though some free zones offer 1-year permits.
Below are some well-known subcategory offers, which essentially sit under the standard free zone permit framework:
I) Investor/Freelance Visa
- An Investor Visa links freelance status to an investment in a Dubai free zone company.
- In practice, this is often marketed to individuals who buy shares in a free zone entity or set up a small company under their name, but function as a freelancer.
- Costs vary widely, generally starting from AED 10,000 (USD 2700).
- Good For: Those who want the option of both investing and freelancing with some entrepreneurial benefits.
Virtuzone can assist you with acquiring your investor visa. Reach out to us today for a free consultation.
II General Freelance Work Permit UAE
- A broad category offered by many free zones (e.g., Dubai Media City, Dubai Internet City, RAKEZ, Ajman Free Zone).
- Ideal for freelancers who don’t require a specialised niche. You simply apply for a free zone freelance licence covering activities like consultancy, design, IT, marketing, etc.
- Cost: Approximately AED 7,500–AED 20,000 (USD 2,040 to 5,400), depending on the package.
- Validity: Typically 1 or 2 years, renewable.
III) Dubai Talent Pass (DAFZA)
- Dubai Talent Pass was introduced by Dubai Airport Free Zone Authority (DAFZA) in collaboration with Dubai Culture and GDRFA.
- Supports professionals in technology, marketing, art, media, education, culture, and consultancy.
- Cost: Usually between AED 9,000 and AED 15,000 (USD 2,450 to 4,000); includes the freelance licence and the subsequent residence visa application through DAFZA.
- Key Advantage: Access to DAFZA’s strategic location near Dubai International Airport and a community of innovators.
IIIV) Media Freelancer Visa
- Tailored for professionals in the media and creative industries—journalists, writers, musicians, filmmakers, etc.
- Often offered by Dubai Media City, Dubai Studio City, or Fujairah Creative City.
- Cost: Typically AED 7,500–AED 15,000 (USD 2040 to 4,000), depending on the package.
V) Freelance Permit for Women
- A specialised branding of a freelance licence often emphasised by certain free zones to encourage female entrepreneurship in the UAE.
- While the core licence is the same, these packages can come with added benefits or networking sessions for women.
- Starting Cost: ~AED 7,500 (USD 2,040) in many free zones.
VI) Freelance Visa for Remote Work (Digital Nomad Visa)
- The Digital Nomad Visa is another subcategory of free zones targeting digital nomads or those working for overseas companies.
- In many cases, this parallels the official “Virtual Working Programme”, but free zones may label it as a “Freelance Visa for Remote Work.”
- Cost: Typically AED 7,000–AED 12,000 (USD 1,900 to 3,250).
VII) Freelance Visa for Specific Professions
Some free zones or local authorities provide industry-specific freelance permits:
- Banking and Finance: Apply via Abu Dhabi’s Department of Economic Development.
- Education and IT: Specialised categories exist for educators and tech professionals.
- Media: Dubai Media City, as mentioned above.
VIII) Freelance Visas in Sharjah and Ajman
- Sharjah Media City (Shams) offers cost-effective freelance permits, usually AED 5,000–AED 10,000 (USD 1350 to 2,700).
- Ajman Free Zone has AED 7,000–AED 12,000 (USD 1,900 to 3,250) packages, often with family sponsorship options included.
IX) Freelance Visa for Family Sponsorship
- Allows freelancers to sponsor family members to live in Dubai.
- Typically requires extra fees starting at AED 10,000 (USD 2,700), plus showing sufficient income or housing.
- In general, once you have a free zone permit and valid residence visa, you can apply to sponsor spouse/children.
X) Freelance Visa for Legal Freelancing
- Marketed for individuals wanting to offer legal services on a freelance basis (e.g., legal consultants, certain forms of paralegal work), without a full-time employment contract.
- Costs typically AED 7,000–AED 12,000 (USD 1,900 to 3,250), often in free zones that have legal consultancy activities in their list.
XI) Tech Freelancer Visa (Potential)
- There have been announcements about exploring a specialised Tech Freelancer Visa to attract global talent.
- Currently, many tech pros simply use the general free zone IT or Tech licence. Stay tuned for official releases.
All of these subcategories ultimately function as a free zone freelance permit + residence visa model. Each free zone or emirate might brand it slightly differently and offer different pricing, but the legal foundation remains consistent.
2. Green Visa for Freelancers
A 5-year visa Green Visa is available to highly qualified freelancers who meet specific criteria:
- Freelance Work Permit from MOHRE
- Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent
- Proof of an annual income of AED 360,000 (USD 98,000) over the past two years or evidence of financial solvency
The cost of this visa (when compared with a standard free zone package) can be higher upfront, generally ranging from AED 15,000–AED 25,000 (USD 4,000 to 6,800) if you factor in the 5-year duration, government fees, and any associated setup costs. However, it provides 5-year residency without requiring a local sponsor, and you won’t need to renew every 2-3 years.
3. Remote Work Visa (1-Year Virtual Work Programme)
This 1-year renewable visa allows individuals to:
- Work remotely from the UAE for companies based abroad.
- Enjoy Dubai’s lifestyle and infrastructure while remaining employed overseas.
To qualify for this visa, individuals must show proof of a monthly salary of at least AED 12,854 (USD 3,500), and valid health insurance.
This route is different from the free zone “Freelance Visa for Remote Work,” which is essentially a free zone product. The official Virtual Work Programme is run by Dubai’s tourism/immigration authorities directly, and you do not need to obtain a freelance licence for local business activities. You simply continue working for your foreign employer while living in Dubai.
Costs of Freelance Visas in Dubai
When planning to apply for a freelance visa in Dubai, it’s important to be aware of the different expenses involved. Here’s a breakdown of the typical costs you can expect in 2025 for obtaining and maintaining your freelance visa:
1. Freelance Permit
The cost for issuing and annually renewing a Freelance Permit in Dubai is between AED 7,500 and AED 15,000. This permit is essential for freelancers who wish to operate legally within the UAE.
2. Freelance Visa
This is the key document that allows you to live and work legally in Dubai as a freelancer. The cost of a freelance visa varies depending on the free zone and services included. The typical cost ranges from AED 7,500 to AED 20,000.
3. Establishment Card
Freelancers will also need to purchase an Establishment Card to conduct business, which costs AED 2,000 for issuance and annual renewal.
4. Residence Visa (non-UAE nationals)
A residence visa is required for non-UAE nationals to legally reside in the UAE, and it is typically linked to your freelance permit. The costs and validity differ slightly based on whether you apply inside the UAE or outside the UAE:
- Inside UAE: For those already in the UAE, the cost of a 3-year residence visa ranges from AED 4,960 (normal processing) to AED 6,340 (express processing). This option requires a status change to cancel your existing visa and activate the new freelance visa. The processing time is quicker as you’re already in the country, and you avoid travel-related delays.
- Outside UAE: If applying from abroad, the 3-year residence visa costs AED 3,330 (normal processing) to AED 3,900 (express processing). You will first receive an entry permit to enter the UAE, after which you must complete the medical fitness test, Emirates ID application, and other formalities to finalise your residence visa. This process typically takes longer due to the entry permit step.
5. Medical Fitness Test (non-UAE nationals)
This is a mandatory step for all residence visa applicants. The cost of a medical fitness test is approximately AED 300.
6. Emirates ID (non-UAE nationals)
The Emirates ID is a mandatory identification card for non-UAE nationals with a residence visa. Issued during the visa process, it costs approximately AED 370 and is valid for the same duration as the visa, typically three years. Renewal is only required when the residence visa is renewed.
It’s important to note that these fees can change based on regulatory updates or the introduction of new services. Staying informed about the latest costs associated with your chosen freelance permit is crucial for budgeting effectively and ensuring compliance with local regulations.
Specific Free Zone Visa Costs
Numerous UAE Free Zones provide freelancer licenses, though not every zone does. Below is a list of Free Zones that offer Freelance Permits and Visas, each catering to specific industries. When selecting your Free Zone, it’s important to consider the industry specialisation and the particular services and facilities that will best meet your business requirements. Also, consider the cost structure, including license fees, visa expenses, and any necessary deposits. Assessing the overall environment and networking opportunities each Free Zone provides is essential for ensuring it matches your professional aims and potential for growth.
Dubai Internet City
Dubai Internet City is a technology park created to foster innovation in the IT sector. DIC is ideal for freelancers specialising in software development, IT services, and tech innovation. It provides a vibrant community and access to major technology companies for potential collaboration and client acquisition.
Prices start from AED 7500.
Dubai Media City
Established to boost the UAE’s media footprint, Dubai Media City houses global and regional media companies. DMC is perfect for freelancers in media production, advertising, and journalism. It offers networking opportunities with leading media firms and access to state-of-the-art production facilities.
Prices start from AED 7250.
Ras Al Khaimah Economic Free Zone (RAKEZ)
Offering cost-effective business solutions, the Ras Al Khaimah Economic Free Zone (RAKEZ) caters to a wide range of sectors, including industrial, trading, and services. RAKEZ is attractive for its cost-effectiveness and ease of doing business. It’s an excellent choice for freelancers across various sectors, providing flexible workspace options and straightforward licensing procedures.
Prices start from AED 11,500.
Ajman Free Zone
Known for its affordability and flexibility, the Ajman Free Zone is suitable for a wide range of freelance activities, including trading, services, and industrial. It offers a simplified setup process and lower overhead costs, making it accessible for startups and individual professionals.
Prices start from AED 11,000.
Fujairah Creative City Free Zone
Catering to the creative industries, the Fujairah Creative City Free Zone provides a platform for media, events, consulting, education, communication, and marketing professionals to flourish. Specifically suited for freelancers in media, advertising, and graphic design, the zone offers a supportive environment with relaxed capital requirements, enabling easier setup and growth for creative freelancers.
Prices start from AED 17,850.
Dubai Design District
Known as d3, the Dubai Design District is dedicated to the design and fashion industry. d3 fosters a creative ecosystem ideal for designers, fashion artists, and creatives looking to tap into the high-end market. It offers infrastructure, inspiration, community events, and retail opportunities to showcase freelance work.
Prices start from AED 70,000.
Dubai Knowledge Park
Dubai Knowledge Park supports freelancers who specialise in educational services, training, and HR consulting. It provides a hub for academic and professional development with collaboration opportunities with educational institutions.
Prices start from AED 100,000.
Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA)
One of the UAE’s largest free zones, JAFZA is a hub for industrial and trading businesses. It caters to freelancers in manufacturing, trading, and logistics. The zone is known for its extensive facilities and global connectivity.
Prices start from AED 50,000.
Sharjah Media City (Shams)
A cost-effective option for media and creative professionals, Shams provides a supportive environment for freelancers in industries such as media, graphic design, and digital content creation. Its affordability and straightforward setup process make it accessible to many.
Prices start from AED 11,500.
Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA)
Located near Dubai International Airport, DAFZA is ideal for freelancers in logistics, aviation, and technology. It offers high-profile networking opportunities, modern infrastructure, and proximity to major trade routes.
Prices vary depending on services and packages.
The best part about joining a Free Zone is that they offer significant tax benefits, including no personal income tax and exemptions from corporate tax for most freelance activities.
How to Get a Freelance Visa in a UAE Free Zone
1. Choose Your Field
Decide on the field in which you wish to freelance, such as media, education, technology, or design. Ensure the field aligns with a free zone that caters to your industry.
2. Select a Free Zone
Choose a free zone that offers freelance licences (Dubai Media City, Fujairah Creative City, RAKEZ, and Ajman Free Zone). Review the ‘Specific Free Zone Visa Costs’ list above to identify a zone that fits your professional needs and budget.
3. Secure a Freelance Permit
Apply for a Freelance Permit online through your chosen free zone. The permit acts as a licence to operate legally as a freelancer in the UAE. Costs vary, typically ranging between AED 7,500 and AED 15,000 (USD 2,040 to 4,080) annually.
4. Gather Required Documents
Prepare essential documents, including:
- Passport copy
- CV (depending on the field)
- Attested academic certificates (if applicable)
- Portfolio of work (for creative fields)
- Sponsor’s No Objection Certificate (NOC) if you’re already a UAE resident.
5. Obtain Establishment Card
Obtain your free zone establishment card via the GDRFA portal (~AED 2,000/USD 540) as this is necessary for visa applications.
6. Residence Visa Application
- Once you have the permit, apply for the residence visa (for non-nationals) under the free zone’s sponsorship.
- Submit documents including medical insurance and entry permit requests.
7. Medical Test & Emirates ID
- Undergo medical fitness test (~AED 300/USD 80).
- Apply for Emirates ID (~AED 370/USD 100 for 3-year validity).
8. Visa Stamping
- Once approved, your Freelance Visa is stamped (or registered electronically).
- Valid for 2–3 years, depending on free zone rules.
9. Visa Renewal
Freelance Visas must be renewed periodically (usually every 1, 2, or 3 years), with fees and processes varying by free zone.
HOW MUCH DOES STARTING A BUSINESS IN THE UAE COST?
How to Get a Freelance Visa in Dubai Mainland (MOHRE)
Applying for a Freelance Visa in Mainland Dubai, outside of the free zones, involves a slightly different process. Here’s a general overview of how you can apply:
1. Choose Your Business Activity
Identify the sector or field you wish to freelance in, such as media, education, or technology. Ensure your activity aligns with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) regulations.
2. Obtain a Freelance Permit
Apply for a Freelance Permit through MOHRE, submitting the necessary documents such as your passport, qualifications, and portfolio (if applicable). This permit allows you to work legally as a freelancer on the mainland.
3. Apply for a No Objection Certificate (NOC)
If you are already in the UAE under an employment or family visa, obtain a NOC from your current sponsor, granting permission to freelance.
4. Medical Fitness Test and Insurance
Complete a mandatory medical fitness test (AED 300/USD 80) and secure health insurance (AED 1,500–AED 2,000/USD 400-USD 540 annually) for visa processing.
5. Apply for a Residency Visa
With your Freelance Permit, you can apply for a residency visa to legally live and work in the UAE. The visa options vary based on your qualifications, financial status, and employment situation:
- The Green Visa offers a 5-year residency for skilled freelancers and self-employed individuals. It does not require a sponsor or employer but demands a bachelor’s degree or specialised diploma and either proof of annual self-employment income of AED 360,000 (USD 98,000) over the past two years or evidence of financial stability during your stay. This visa is ideal for those seeking long-term independence.
- The Standard Residency Visa, valid for 1 to 3 years, is linked to a Freelance Permit issued by a free zone or MOHRE. This visa typically requires sponsorship by the free zone authority or an Establishment Card for mainland permits. It’s a more accessible option for freelancers who do not meet the Green Visa’s stringent income criteria.
- The Remote Work Visa provides a 1-year renewable residency for freelancers employed by companies abroad. It requires proof of employment, a monthly salary of at least AED 12,850 (USD 3,500), and health insurance.
Choose the visa type that aligns best with your professional goals and prepare the necessary documents, including your Freelance Permit, proof of income, passport, medical insurance, and passport-sized photos.
6. Visa Stamping
Once your residency visa is approved, it will be stamped into your passport, allowing you to legally live and work in Dubai. The visa will typically be valid for 1-3 years, unless you have the 5-year Green Visa.
7. Open a Bank Account
Set up a UAE-based bank account to manage your freelance income. Some banks may require additional documentation, such as your Emirates ID and tenancy contract.
Virtuzone provides comprehensive support for opening a bank account in the UAE, handling everything from liaising with the bank to assisting with document collection and submission, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free process.
Freelance Permit vs Freelance Visa
Freelance Permit (or License)
A Freelance Permit (or license) grants you the legal right to operate as a freelancer in the UAE. It is essentially a form of business licensing that allows you to work as an independent contractor or sole practitioner. This permit is issued by various Free Zone authorities or by the Department of Economic Development in different Emirates.
Freelance Visa
A Freelance Visa is a type of residency visa that allows you to live in the UAE while working as a freelancer. This visa is linked to your Freelance Permit, and in many cases, it is facilitated by the Free Zone that issued your Freelance Permit, although you may also apply for it through mainland authorities if they offer a freelance package.
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Most Popular Freelance Jobs in Dubai
Dubai’s freelance market welcomes a variety of professions. Some of the most in-demand freelance sectors include:
- IT & Software Development: Web/app developers, cybersecurity experts, data analysts.
- Media & Creative Design: Graphic designers, journalists, content writers, videographers.
- Marketing & Business Consultancy: Digital marketers, SEO specialists, management consultants.
- Education & Coaching: Tutors, corporate trainers, personal development coaches.
- Health & Wellness: Personal trainers, yoga instructors, nutritionists.
- Finance & Accounting: Bookkeepers, financial advisors, CFO-on-demand services.
- Events & Hospitality: Freelance event planners, caterers, entertainers.
- Administrative Support: Virtual assistants, receptionists, data entry specialists.
With Dubai’s thriving economy, freelancers in these fields often find abundant opportunities, especially if they network effectively and deliver high-quality work.
Benefits of Freelancing in Dubai
1. Simple Application Process
2. Extensive Work Opportunities
Freelancing provides a range of industries to conduct your business in the UAE. You can engage in nearly all DED-listed business activities with a freelance permit. Specific free zones like Dubai Media City, Dubai Internet City, and Dubai Knowledge Park cater to niche sectors like media, technology, and education, respectively. Residents currently employed full-time can also secure a freelance work permit, allowing them to undertake additional projects with an NOC from their employer.
3. Flexible Workspace Options
Dubai’s Freelance Visa allows for total location flexibility. You have the option to work from home, rent a desk in a co-working space, or utilise office facilities in Free Zones.
4. No Local Sponsor or NOC Required
Most Free Zones in Dubai do not require a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from a local sponsor. This autonomy is particularly advantageous for long-term residents and new arrivals, making it easier to start freelancing without navigating additional administrative hurdles.
5. Ability to Sponsor Dependents
Holding a Freelance Visa in Dubai enables you to sponsor dependents, allowing your family to join you. This benefit extends to the possibility of sponsoring employees if you decide to expand your business operations within the UAE.
6. Minimal Administrative Burden
Freelancers in Dubai enjoy a reduced administrative burden. Fortunately, freelancers in the UAE are not always required to submit official accounts or be subjected to auditing. This allows you to focus more on growing your business and less on paperwork.
7. Access to Corporate Banking
Setting up a corporate bank account as a freelancer in Dubai is straightforward, with numerous reputable financial institutions available. Once established in your chosen Free Zone, you’ll be guided to the bank that best suits your industry needs, facilitating financial transactions and business operations.
8. Government and Community Support
The UAE government actively supports freelancers through initiatives designed to foster a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem. These efforts include regular business forums and events that provide access to valuable resources and expert guidance, as well as startup accelerators and incubators like the Dubai Future Accelerators, which offer mentorship and funding opportunities. Additionally, free zones such as Dubai Media City and Dubai Design District frequently organise industry-specific workshops and networking events, helping freelancers connect with clients and collaborators.
9. Obtain a Residency Permit
The freelance visa allows non-residents to obtain a residency permit, enhancing their flexibility to live and work in Dubai and participate in the vibrant local economy.
The freelance workforce in the UAE is experiencing significant growth, particularly among younger professionals. Recent data indicates that individuals aged between 21 and 30 constitute approximately 55% of the labor market, reflecting a substantial youth presence in the workforce.
Get Your Freelance Visa Today with Virtuzone
Many professionals choose the UAE to build their freelance businesses, thanks to its robust economy and supportive ecosystem. At Virtuzone, we are the leading Dubai company formation specialist in the UAE. We can guide you through:
- Selecting the right free zone
- Securing your Freelance Permit
- Applying for your Residence Visa
- Handling renewals, bank account setups, and more
We do all the heavy lifting to ensure everything is set up properly, so you can focus on your work. Contact us today for a free consultation to learn more about obtaining a Freelance Visa in Dubai.
FAQ’s
How Much Does a Dubai Freelance Visa Cost in a Free Zone?
The cost of obtaining a Freelance Visa in a Dubai Free Zone varies depending on the specific Free Zone and the package offered. Generally, the costs include the freelance permit (license) and the visa. Packages start from around AED 7500.
Is a Freelance Permit the Same as a Freelance License?
No, they are not the same. A Freelance Permit allows individuals to work as freelancers within a specific free zone, usually under their own name, without setting up a formal company. In contrast, a Freelance Licence is a more comprehensive business licence that enables broader business activities and the option to operate as a registered company.
Do I Need a Freelance Permit to Get My Freelance Visa in Dubai?
Yes, you need a Freelance Permit to obtain a Freelance Visa in Dubai. The Freelance Permit is your official authorisation to operate as a freelancer in your chosen field. Once you have obtained this permit, you can apply for a Freelance Visa, which allows you to legally reside and work in Dubai as a freelancer.
How Long Does the Freelance Visa Process Take in Dubai?
The processing time for a Freelance Visa in Dubai can vary, but it typically takes about 20-30 days once all required documents are submitted.
How Much Does a Freelance Permit Cost?
The cost for a Freelance Permit typically ranges from AED 7,500 to AED 20,000. This cost can vary depending on the Free Zone or the mainland authority issuing the permit. There is also an additional AED 10 ‘Knowledge Dirham’ and AED 10 ‘Innovation Dirham’ to be paid.
Can I Work for Any Company in Dubai with a Freelance Visa, or Are There Restrictions?
A Freelance Visa allows you to legally work as an independent professional in Dubai. However, it’s important to note that your work should align with the activities specified in your freelance permit. While you can offer your services to various companies, these engagements must fall within the scope of your licensed freelance activities. Additionally, freelancers are generally expected to work independently rather than as full-time employees for a single company.
How Long is a Freelance Visa Valid in Dubai?
A Freelance Visa in Dubai is typically valid for one to three years and can be renewed as long as the associated Freelance Permit or License remains valid and the renewal fees are paid.
Can I Sponsor My Family with a Freelance Visa in Dubai?
Yes, once you have a Freelance Visa, you can sponsor your family members, including your spouse and children, to live in Dubai, subject to approval and the fulfilment of certain conditions set by the immigration authorities.
Is Dubai a Good Place to Freelance?
According to a report from Algorithm Research, Dubai remains the focal point for freelancers in the UAE, hosting more than 65% of freelancers in the region. This is largely due to its business-friendly ecosystem, which offers freelancers the freedom to choose projects, work independently, and access world-class infrastructure. With streamlined visa options, strong government support, and a thriving professional network, Dubai stands out as one of the most attractive cities globally for freelancers seeking flexibility, opportunity, and long-term growth.
Can I Apply for a Freelance Visa if I’m Outside the UAE?
Yes, you can apply for a Freelance Visa even if you are outside the UAE. You will first need an entry permit to enter the UAE, which is issued as part of the freelance visa application process. Once in the country, you must complete steps such as the medical fitness test and Emirates ID application to finalise your residency visa.
Do I Need Health Insurance with a Freelance Visa?
Yes, health insurance is mandatory for all residency visa holders in the UAE, including freelancers. You must provide proof of valid health insurance coverage during the visa application process.
Can I Freelance While on a Tourist Visa in Dubai?
No, working on a tourist visa in Dubai is illegal. To freelance legally, you must obtain a Freelance Permit and a corresponding Freelance Visa.
What is the Difference Between a Virtual Office and a Flexi-Desk?
A virtual office provides a business address and administrative support without a physical workspace, while a flexi-desk offers access to a shared office space with desk usage for a limited number of hours per week.