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Freelance Licence in the UAE: What You Need to Know in 2025

May 19, 2025

Freelance Licence in the UAE: What You Need to Know in 2025

Country / Territory

  • United Arab EmiratesUnited Arab Emirates

Related contacts

Photo of Elena Caron

Elena Caron

Corporate Services Director

Dubai (DIC), United Arab Emirates

Email

[email protected]

T:+971 4 8181 709

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  • Middle East & North Africa Corporate Services
  • Explore UAE Residency
  • Are you eligible for Long-Term Residency in the UAE?

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Photo of Elena Caron

Elena Caron

Corporate Services Director

Dubai (DIC), United Arab Emirates

Email

[email protected]

T:+971 4 8181 709

Related insights

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Related content

  • Middle East & North Africa Corporate Services
  • Explore UAE Residency
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  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Related contacts

Photo of Elena Caron

Elena Caron

Corporate Services Director

Dubai (DIC), United Arab Emirates

Email

[email protected]

T:+971 4 8181 709

Related insights

  • Digital Nomads in the UAE
  • Golden Visas: Long-Term Residency in the UAE
  • UAE Golden Visa Changes: Key Insights for Highly-Skilled Professionals
View all insights

Related offices

  • Dubai (DIC)
  • Dubai (DIFC)

Related content

  • Middle East & North Africa Corporate Services
  • Explore UAE Residency
  • Are you eligible for Long-Term Residency in the UAE?

Share

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Share

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By: Elena Caron

The UAE has emerged as one of the most attractive destinations for freelancers looking to formalise their work and tap into a thriving business ecosystem. With an expanding digital economy, flexible visa options and a growing pool of remote talent, securing a freelance licence in the UAE is not only accessible—but increasingly strategic.

This blog outlines the eligibility, cost, benefits and important points to consider before applying for a freelance licence in the UAE in 2025.

What is a freelance licence?

A freelance licence is a government-issued permit that allows individuals to operate as independent professionals in specific sectors without the need to set up a full company or sponsor employees.

The licence allows freelancers to work legally, invoice clients, access business services and, if needed, apply for a residence visa tied to a freelance licence.

Who can apply for a freelance licence? 

Freelance licences in the UAE are available for both residents and non-residents across a variety of sectors, such as:

      • Media and creative (photographers, writers, marketers)
      • Tech (developers, cybersecurity experts, UI/UX designers)
      • Education (trainers, tutors, curriculum consultants)
      • Business support (HR, legal, finance consultants)
      • E-commerce
      • Influencers/promotors

Salaried employees in the UAE can apply, provided a No Objection Certificate (NOC) is obtained from the current employer.

Which jurisdictions offer a freelance licence in the UAE? 

Multiple jurisdictions across the UAE offer freelance permits. Popular options include:

Freelance Licence in the UAE: What You Need to Know in 2025

Is a residence visa available with a freelance licence?

Yes, if required, a freelance residence permit can be secured based on the licence. The residence visa is typically valid for one or two years and usually includes:

      • Licence/permit
      • Establishment card
      • Residence permit and Emirates ID card (if opted)

This is a valuable option for digital nomads and remote professionals seeking for a stable legal base in the UAE.

How much does a freelance licence cost?

Government fees vary significantly based on the chosen jurisdiction and whether a residence permit is required. Costs in 2025 range from:

      • Approximately AED 1,800 (USD 490) for the licence alone
      • Up to AED 14,200 (USD 3,866) for the licence with a visa

Benefits of holding a freelance licence in the UAE

      • 100% ownership: No need for a local sponsor
      • Access to clients: Freelancers can open a personal bank account and invoice legally
      • Tax efficiency: The UAE has no personal income tax, though corporate tax applies in certain cases
      • Business credibility: Being licenced builds trust with clients and institutions
      • Sponsoring dependents: Freelancers with residence permits can sponsor dependents

Considerations for applying

      • Annual renewal fees apply
      • Some free zones limit the number of activities per licence
      • A No Objection Certificate (NOC) may be required for applicants already employed in the UAE
      • New regulations on corporate tax may apply depending on income structure
      • A legalised education certificate may be required
      • Hiring employees under a freelance licence is not permitted

How Fragomen can support freelancers in the UAE 

The UAE’s flexible and business-friendly freelance system makes it one of the best places in the region to formalize solo careers. As competition grows and regulations evolve, having the right structure from day one is essential. Fragomen’s Corporate Services team can help navigate the best jurisdiction, licencing options and visa pathways.

Need to know more?

For further information, please visit Fragomen’s Corporate Services page or fill out the form below to contact our team and begin your UAE freelance licence journey.

This blog was published on 19 May 2025, and due to the circumstances, there may be frequent changes. To keep up to date with all the latest updates on global immigration, please subscribe to our alerts and follow us on LinkedIn, X, Facebook and Instagram.

PLEASE NOTE: Communications sent to us via email through our website are not secure and will not be regarded by us as confidential. Do not send information that you believe is confidential without first speaking with one of our attorneys. Please see our Marketing Privacy Notice. By submitting your information to Fragomen via the Contact Us Page, you are giving consent for Fragomen to process your personal data as described in our Marketing Privacy Notice.

Country / Territory

  • United Arab EmiratesUnited Arab Emirates

Related contacts

Photo of Elena Caron

Elena Caron

Corporate Services Director

Dubai (DIC), United Arab Emirates

Email

[email protected]

T:+971 4 8181 709

Related insights

  • Digital Nomads in the UAE
  • Golden Visas: Long-Term Residency in the UAE
  • UAE Golden Visa Changes: Key Insights for Highly-Skilled Professionals
View all insights

Related offices

  • Dubai (DIC)
  • Dubai (DIFC)

Related content

  • Middle East & North Africa Corporate Services
  • Explore UAE Residency
  • Are you eligible for Long-Term Residency in the UAE?

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Related contacts

Photo of Elena Caron

Elena Caron

Corporate Services Director

Dubai (DIC), United Arab Emirates

Email

[email protected]

T:+971 4 8181 709

Related insights

  • Digital Nomads in the UAE
  • Golden Visas: Long-Term Residency in the UAE
  • UAE Golden Visa Changes: Key Insights for Highly-Skilled Professionals
View all insights

Related offices

  • Dubai (DIC)
  • Dubai (DIFC)

Related content

  • Middle East & North Africa Corporate Services
  • Explore UAE Residency
  • Are you eligible for Long-Term Residency in the UAE?

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Related contacts

Photo of Elena Caron

Elena Caron

Corporate Services Director

Dubai (DIC), United Arab Emirates

Email

[email protected]

T:+971 4 8181 709

Related insights

  • Digital Nomads in the UAE
  • Golden Visas: Long-Term Residency in the UAE
  • UAE Golden Visa Changes: Key Insights for Highly-Skilled Professionals
View all insights

Related offices

  • Dubai (DIC)
  • Dubai (DIFC)

Related content

  • Middle East & North Africa Corporate Services
  • Explore UAE Residency
  • Are you eligible for Long-Term Residency in the UAE?

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

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