Freelancers have the best lives! They can go anywhere they want. If a freelancer would go to any place in the world to work, Dubai would be in the Top 3 if not the top choice. UAE provides opportunities for freelancers to work and succeed. Either you establish your freelance work in the mainland and the free zone, Dubai is undeniably becoming the more popular destination.
Initially, before the lockdown of last year, it was not a promising destination for freelancers because the UAE did not give many opportunities. However, the new amendment indicated that freelancers are now allowed in the UAE. Because of this provision, there has been a recent increase in the number of freelancers in Dubai.
Providing freelancers with residence visas has contributed to the increase of freelancers in Dubai. Aside from the freelancers themselves, the amendment also stipulated that they can bring their families with them. This opened the doors not just for the unmarried but also for the family man who is seeking a better life in a foreign country amidst the pandemic.
As business investors continue to flock to Dubai and its free zones, employment opportunities arise for individuals from all over the globe. With the exquisite lifestyle that Dubai offers, and with the UAE being one of the safest places to live amidst the pandemic, freelancers aim to go and be part of this Shangri-La.
Why Get a Freelance Permit?
With the younger generation going to work and establishing businesses, freelancing is the best way to start their careers. In Dubai, a freelance permit is also referred to as a work permit. You have got get this permit to be employed by a particular company but not be tied for a long term, be self-employed or freelance.
The most popular industries that need a freelance permit are media, education, and IT services. Talented Individuals from Europe and Asia are the most prominent individuals who freelance in Dubai.
How to Get a Freelance Permit?
The issuance of a permit depends on the free zone that you opt to go to and the level of your professional experience. For example, Shams free zone gives freelancers license for 13 different media-related activities. A diploma and experience in the field are an advantage for those who wish to apply for a permit in the region.
Freelance permits can only be opened in an individual account through a bank. Joint accounts are not allowed. Freelance permits will not qualify you for partnerships nor hire employees. Your visa validity as a freelancer will be the same as that of your freelance permit.
The process is simple. You have to complete these steps:
- Obtain a NOC
- Submit these documents
- Passport (Copy)
- Visa (Copy)
- Emirates ID
- Photograph
- Proof of Experience
- Diploma
- Application letter
Pay the necessary amount for the processing of the permit once the application has been approved. It will only take up to 7 business days to have a visa approved upon submission of complete documents.
What are the Benefits of a Freelance Permit?
Working in the UAE as a freelancer gives you undeniable benefits. Some of which include:
- Freelance license fee is waived for two years
- Residency visa is valid for three years
- Minimal fee for a permit
- As a freelance, you have a flexible schedule
- You gain access to world-class media
- You can sponsor family to live with you
- You can work for a company without being physically present
Please take note that you can even obtain your freelance permit even if you are employed. All you need to do is get a no-objection certificate) NOC_ from your employer so that you can do your freelance work in the UAE.
Where Can I Freelance in the UAE?
There are notable favorites for freelancers which include the following:
- Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (Rakez)
- Technology, Electronic Commerce and Media (Tecom)
- Sharjah Media City (Shams)
