Dubai’s business-friendly ecosystem continues to attract entrepreneurs, remote professionals, and creative freelancers from around the world. However, if you wish to work legally in the UAE, you’ll likely face a common question: Should I apply for a Dubai freelance visa or establish a company with a business license? With updated regulations in 2025, the choice comes down to your budget, flexibility needs, and long-term business goals. Let’s break it down.
1. Understanding the Two Options
A. Dubai Freelance Visa
A freelance visa in Dubai is essentially a residency permit tied to a freelance work permit. It allows you to work as an independent contractor under your own name, without needing a full-fledged company setup.
- Popular among media professionals, IT specialists, designers, consultants, and education trainers.
- Can be obtained through free zones like Dubai Media City, Dubai Internet City, Dubai Design District (d3), and Dubai Knowledge Park.
B. Dubai Business License
A business license (trade license) allows you to set up a registered company in Dubai — either in a free zone or on the mainland.
- You can hire staff, open a corporate bank account, and invoice under a business entity’s name.
- Suitable for entrepreneurs aiming for business expansion, hiring, or larger-scale operations.
2. Freelance License Dubai Cost in 2025
The freelance license in Dubai has become more competitive as free zones strive to attract global talent. Here’s the updated range for 2025:
| Item | Average Cost (AED) |
| Freelance permit (1 year) | AED 5,000(Starting) |
| 2-yearresidence visa (optional) | AED 3,500 – 5,000 |
| Medical & Emirates ID | AED 800 – 1,000 |
| Total (with visa) | AED 13,000 – 16,000 |
| Total (license only) | AED 7,500 – 9,000 |
💡Tip: Some free zones offer bundled packages that include both the freelance license and 2-year visa at a reduced rate.
3. Business License Cost in Dubai (Free Zone & Mainland) – 2025
The cost depends on your chosen jurisdiction:
| Type | Cost Range (AED) | Includes |
| Free zone business license | Starting from AED 12,000 | License, shared desk, some visa quotas |
| Mainland trade license | Starting from AED 7000 | License, local agent fees, visa quotas |
| Additional visas | AED 3,500 – 7,000 per visa | For employees or partners |
4. Dubai Freelance Visa vs Company – Cost & Flexibility
| Factor | Dubai Freelance Visa | Business License (Company) |
| Upfront cost | Lower – from AED 7,500 without visa | Higher – from AED 12,000+ |
| Visa eligibility | Yes, for you (and family if you add dependent visas) | Yes, for you + multiple employee visas |
| Work scope | Limited to approved activities | Broader activity options |
| Brand name | Works under your personal name | Operates under company name |
| Client perception | More suited to individuals | Often perceived as more “corporate” |
| Expansion | Not ideal for scaling | Suitable for scaling and hiring staff |
5. Which One Should You Choose in 2025?
- Choose a Dubai Freelance Visa if you’re a solo professional wanting a low-cost, flexible way to work legally and invoice clients in Dubai or globally.
- Choose a Business License if you plan to hire employees, operate under a brand name, or expand services beyond what freelance permits allow.
In 2025, the Dubai freelance license cost remains significantly lower than setting up a company. However, a business license offers more scalability and credibility for certain sectors. Your decision should depend on your work style, growth ambitions, and budget.
How Promptus Global Can Help
At Promptus Global, we simplify the process of getting your Dubai freelance visa or business license. From choosing the right free zone to handling all paperwork, visa applications, and renewals, our team ensures a hassle-free, fast, and compliant setup.
Whether you’re a solo freelancer or an entrepreneur planning to build a full company, we’ll guide you through every step — saving you time, money, and stress.
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