How to start Freelancing in Dubai?

Why Freelance in Dubai?

1. Global Business Hub

Dubai is a major international economic hub due to its strategic location at the intersection of Europe, Asia, and Africa. Due to this geographic advantage, you can reach a wide range of clients on several continents as a freelancer.

2. Tax Benefits

One of the most significant advantages of freelancing in Dubai is the tax-free income. Unlike many countries where freelancers are subject to hefty taxes on their earnings, Dubai offers a tax-free environment, allowing you to retain more of your hard-earned money.

3. Vibrant Community

In Dubai, the number of people opting to work independently in technology, media, design, and consultancy is increasing rapidly. Co-working spaces offer vibrant environments for freelancers to collaborate, network, and expand their businesses.

Advantages of having a Freelance Visa in Dubai

Consider obtaining a freelancing visa if you’re searching for a flexible and independent approach to work in the United Arab Emirates. With a freelance visa, you can operate as a self-employed individual in various fields, including marketing, consulting, technology, journalism, education, and the arts. To get a freelance visa you don’t need an employer or sponsor. You can work for several clients at the same time, and you can decide your work hours and take advantage of all the perks of living in the UAE.

1. Flexible Work Environment: You can schedule your timings, and you can choose what kindof clients you would have to work with.
2. Freedom: You can work from your home or café or park. You don’t need to chain yourself in an office.
3. Secure Space: You can enjoy all the benefits of living as a UAE resident. You are allowed to open a bank account or get a driving license.

How to apply for a Freelance Visa in Dubai?

You must choose the industry you wish to work in as a freelancer, whether it be consulting, journalism, education, technology, art, or culture. The next step is to select the free zone or authority that grants visas and permits to freelancers in that industry.

Here is the Step-by-Step Process:

1. Choose your business activity to do freelancing.

Decide the business activity that you wish to do in Dubai.

2. Choose the jurisdiction.

Entrepreneurs must choose a jurisdiction that approves of their intended operations to obtain a freelance license in the United Arab Emirates.
Dubai Mainland: A Freelance Permit issued directly by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization (MoHRE) in Dubai.

Freezone: Contact the authorities in your selected free zone to apply for a freelance permission.
Choose a Dubai free zone authority that supports your freelance business. Every free zone has a unique set of advantages and requirements that may vary.

Some options are:

Sharjah Media City, AJMAN Free Zone, Fujairah Creative City Free Zone, Dubai Media City, TwoFour54 (Abu Dhabi), UMQ Free Trade zone, Dubai Design District (D3), RAK free trade region, Dubai Knowledge Park.