Freelance Visa Dubai Complete Guide 2025

Dubai has become one of the most popular cities in the world for freelancers. Professionals from media, technology, education, design, marketing, and many other fields are choosing to work here. The reason is simple: Dubai offers a safe environment, modern infrastructure, no personal income tax, and special visa options that allow people to live and work as independent professionals.

In 2025, the freelance visa in Dubai is easier to get than ever before. This complete guide explains everything you need to know about the freelance visa, including types, costs, application steps, benefits, and the most popular freelance jobs in Dubai. The UAE Government announced new Rules for Work permit and visit visa , which is front passport photo must needed.

What is a Freelance Visa in Dubai?

A freelance visa is a type of residence visa that allows you to legally work in Dubai as a self-employed professional. With this visa, you are not tied to one employer. Instead, you can offer services to multiple companies or clients.

This visa is especially useful for:

• Consultants and advisors
• Teachers, trainers, and tutors
• Media professionals (journalists, designers, videographers)
• IT experts and software developers
• Artists and creative professionals

A freelance visa also lets you open a bank account in Dubai, rent property, and even sponsor your family.

Types of Freelance Visas in Dubai 2025

In Dubai, there are several visa options for freelancers. Each one is made for different kinds of professionals.

1. Free Zone Freelance Permit + Residence Visa

Free zones in Dubai issue special freelance permits. Once you get the permit, you can apply for a residence visa under that free zone.

• Duration: Usually valid for 2–3 years
• Cost: Around AED 7,500 to AED 20,000 depending on the free zone
• Best For: People who want to legally work in Dubai and have access to free zone facilities

2. Green Visa for Freelancers

The Green Visa is a 5-year residence visa that does not need a local sponsor.

• Requirements: Bachelor’s degree, freelance permit from MOHRE, proof of income (AED 360,000 over two years)
• Cost: AED 15,000 to AED 25,000 (for the 5-year period)
• Best For: Skilled professionals who want long-term security

3. Remote Work Visa (Virtual Work Programme)

This visa is for people who work for a company outside the UAE but want to live in Dubai.

• Duration: 1 year, renewable
• Requirement: Proof of foreign job and a minimum monthly salary of AED 12,854 (USD 3,500)
• Best For: Digital nomads and remote workers.

Costs of Freelance Visa in Dubai

When planning your freelance journey in 2025, it is important to understand the cost.

1. Freelance Permit: AED 7,500 to AED 15,000 per year
2. Freelance Visa: AED 7,500 to AED 20,000 depending on the free zone
3. Establishment Card: Around AED 2,000 per year
4. Medical Test: Around AED 300
5. Emirates ID: Around AED 370 (valid for 3 years)
6. Health Insurance: Around AED 1,500 to AED 2,000 per year

Costs may change depending on the free zone and government updates, so always confirm the latest fees before applying.

Expense	Estimated Cost (AED)	Notes
Freelance Permit	7,500 – 15,000 per year	Mandatory license to work as a freelancer
Freelance Visa	7,500 – 20,000	Cost varies by free zone and package
Establishment Card	~2,000 per year	Required for legal operations
Medical Test	~300	Mandatory for residence visa approval
Emirates ID	~370 (valid for 3 years)	Identification card linked to residence visa
Health Insurance	1,500 – 2,000 per year	Required for all residence visa holders

Popular Free Zones for Freelance Visa in Dubai

Dubai has many free zones that issue freelance permits. Each one is designed for a specific industry.

• Dubai Internet City – for IT and software experts (starting from AED 7,500)
• Dubai Media City – for journalists, filmmakers, and creative professionals (starting from AED 7,250)
• Dubai Design District (d3) – for designers, fashion professionals, and artists (packages from AED 70,000)
• Fujairah Creative City – for media, consulting, and advertising (starting from AED 17,850)
• Ajman Free Zone – affordable choice for many fields (around AED 11,000)
• RAKEZ (Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone) – flexible options across industries (from AED 11,500)
• Sharjah Media City (Shams) – budget-friendly permits for creatives (from AED 11,500)

How to Apply for a Freelance Visa in Dubai Free Zones

Here is a step-by-step process in simple words:

1. Choose Your Field – Select your industry (IT, media, design, education, etc.).
2. Select a Free Zone – Pick a free zone that matches your field and budget.
3. Apply for a Freelance Permit – Submit documents online and pay the fee.
4. Prepare Required Documents – Passport copy, CV, qualification certificates, portfolio, passport photo, and NOC (if already living in Dubai).
5. Get Establishment Card – Apply for an establishment card to operate legally.
6. Apply for Residence Visa – Once you have a permit, apply for the residence visa under the free zone.
7. Medical Fitness Test – Take the test in Dubai (around AED 300).
8. Get Emirates ID – Apply for an Emirates ID card (around AED 370).
9. Visa Stamping – Your visa will be stamped in your passport or updated electronically.

Freelance Visa for Dubai Mainland (MOHRE)

If you do not want a free zone, you can apply through the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).

Steps:

1. Apply for a freelance permit from MOHRE
2. Submit passport, qualifications, and portfolio
3. Take medical test and buy health insurance
4. Apply for a 1–3 year residence visa or a 5-year Green Visa
5. Complete visa stamping

GoFreelance Programme

Dubai has also launched the GoFreelance initiative to make freelancing easier. It is available in Dubai Media City, Dubai Internet City, Dubai Design District, and Dubai Knowledge Park.

• Visa Cost: AED 4,600 for 1 year, AED 5,042 for 2 years
• Extra Cost: Establishment card (AED 2,000)
• Perks: Access to hot desks, meeting rooms, high-speed internet, networking events, and an online marketplace to find projects

Freelance Permit vs Freelance Visa

• Freelance Permit: This is the license that allows you to legally work as a freelancer.
• Freelance Visa: This is the residence visa that allows you to live in Dubai. Both are needed if you are a foreigner.

Benefits of Freelancing in Dubai

1. No personal income tax – Keep more of your earnings.
2. Work with multiple clients – You are not tied to one employer.
3. Sponsor your family – Bring your spouse and children to Dubai.
4. Low paperwork – Simple process, especially in free zones.
5. Flexible workspace – Work from home, co-working spaces, or virtual offices.
6. Government support – The UAE supports freelancers with special programs and networking events.
7. Banking access – You can open a UAE bank account as a freelancer.

Most Popular Freelance Jobs in Dubai

• IT and software development
• Graphic design and animation
• Content writing and journalism
• Digital marketing and SEO
• Education and coaching
• Fitness training and nutrition
• Event planning and photography
• Finance and accounting

These jobs are in high demand and freelancers often find projects quickly.

How to Set Up Your Freelance Business in Dubai

1. Choose a workspace – Home office, co-working space, or virtual office.
2. Build your brand – Create a logo, website, and social media presence.
3. Find clients – Use online platforms, networking events, and GoFreelance marketplace.
4. Manage money – Open a business bank account, use accounting software, and set payment terms.
5. Stay compliant – Renew your visa and permit on time, draft contracts, and get insurance if needed.

Final Words

The freelance visa in Dubai 2025 gives professionals the chance to live and work independently in one of the world’s most advanced cities. Whether you apply through a free zone, MOHRE, or the GoFreelance programme, the process is clear and rewarding.

By planning your budget, choosing the right free zone, and building your brand, you can enjoy a successful freelance career in Dubai. With strong government support, excellent facilities, and endless opportunities, Dubai is the perfect place for freelancers to grow in 2025.