Freelancing has gained a lot of space around the world. Currently, the United Arab Emirates has seen its economy skyrocket thanks to many reasons, and freelancers are a part of this improvement. For this reason, it is common to see people looking for ways to work as a freelancer in Dubai. With this guide, you can now learn how to achieve this.
In this article, you will learn about what you need to do to become a freelancer in Dubai. Discover how to build your own success in this journey and the professions with the most opportunities available. Let us see the following points:
1. How has technology influenced the growth of freelance jobs?
Freelance work in Dubai has experienced a dizzying growth thanks to the accelerated development of technology. In this regard, the fact that we can get closer and be in constant contact with each other thanks to the internet and its possibilities for freelance networking, makes remote work much easier.
Freelancing in Dubai allows people to work from their place of choice. However, this would not be possible without today’s technology and the advancement it has meant for society. In this sense, it only consists of mastering a skill to start freelancing, getting a freelance license, and getting to work.
The benefits of working as a freelancer in Dubai are numerous, and the fact that anyone can do their job from home provides a positive addition that many take into account. This is enhanced by the fact that today, access to technology is easy, and we can use diverse tools that make communication, work, and life overall better.
If you want to learn more about the influence of technology on the growth of freelance jobs, we invite you to visit Connect Freelance. On our website, you will find a lot of useful information related to the fascinating world of freelancing.
2. What to do to start working as a freelancer in Dubai?
The rise of freelance work in Dubai is a reflection of a worldwide movement. When freelancing in Dubai, you can consider yourself an important part of a large mass of workers who contribute to the economy of the Emirates.
Also, keep in mind that as a freelancer, the start-up of your job is one of the least expensive in the overall market. In this regard, you just need to comply with certain legal formalities, such as obtaining your permits and freelance license to start bringing income.
If you decide to start your freelance career, you will find that many companies will prefer to contract freelancers because it is less expensive for them. In this way, you will see how a market of possibilities opens up. Choosing this lifestyle means setting your own rules and choosing who you work for.
Nowadays, the government is implementing friendly laws for all those who wish to start freelancing in Dubai, making this become a real opportunity for many. The UAE’s authorities are looking to boost the country’s economy by establishing these policies while welcoming more foreigners. In addition, you can take advantage of the opportunities offered in the Free Zones. Keep in mind that for this, you will only need your freelance license in Dubai.
As you can see, Dubai offers many opportunities for growth for all entrepreneurs. Keep reading to see how freelancers can take advantage of this type of job in the emirate.
3. Benefits of being a freelancer in Dubai
When you are a freelancer in Dubai, you can enjoy many advantages. Among these, we highlight:
- Working from your place of choice. Many choose to work from home, but you could also work from many office spaces in the local business centers. In Dubai, freelancers can work from almost anywhere as there is plenty of free Wi-Fi in most commercial premises, restaurants, hotels, and entertainment areas.
- Working with important brands. In addition, you can have a very high-profit margin as a freelancer in Dubai, as your expenses in the emirate can be visibly lower than your income.
- Building your own brand. By doing so, you will nurture your reputation as an independent services provider in a cosmopolitan place like Dubai. This could help you reach better clients, which translates into better earnings.
- Carrying out multiple projects and working for several clients at the same time.
- Take on projects according to your schedule, and decide to work on them on your own terms.
Keep in mind that when you are a specialist in your field, you will be recognized for your exclusivity and professionalism.
Do not hesitate to contact our team to learn more about the benefits that the freelance world can offer you. We will be at your disposal to solve and address your concerns related to the freelance work permit, and more.
4. What are the ideal professions to work as a freelancer in Dubai?
When you start as a freelancer in the UAE, you must first look for your ideal job. Additionally, the decisions you need to make to choose any job are reinforced by the amount of knowledge you have regarding what you will be doing. If you are going to become a freelancer in Dubai, they can never be taken lightly. Check out this list of demanded freelance professions for reference:
4.1 Writing/copywriting
If you like writing, you can choose to become a freelance writer. Additionally, you can be a copywriter, and can devote yourself to what you like most while working on the development of your writing. In the same way, you can use your language-related skills for translation and interpretation jobs.
Keep in mind that this skill is highly sought-after around the world. Also, if you speak more than two languages, you can go a long way.
4.2 Interpreting, translating and reading
When it comes to freelance jobs, your interpreting, translating, and reading skills are very well paid. Once you realize that you can leverage this science to your advantage, the sky will be the limit.
4.3 Search Engine Optimization
Becoming an SEO specialist may be your next option, but keep in mind that it is not easy to make a webpage rank on search engines. However, it is for this same reason that you can achieve high earnings if you become an expert in this field.
4.4 Web development
If your skills are strong in web development, you can earn a good income. Freelancers who do this type of work can enjoy the freedom of working from home doing what they like without being present at a workplace. Because these jobs are so well-paid, they are gaining more and more popularity nowadays.
4.5 Teaching
One of the most rewarding activities in life is teaching. Getting to share your knowledge with any number of people makes a difference, and this is considered highly rewarding for many. Likewise, the teaching process can be a daily learning experience for the one who imparts knowledge; you will always learn from your students just as your students learn from you.
4.6 Computer-aided 3D modeling
As a 3D design modeler, you can perform design drawings as well as design renderings. Also, you will design and create housing proposals, in addition to the design of objects in general.
4.7 Graphic design
This job consists of being a freelance professional in the area of graphic design, usually related to digital images. They create visuals that communicate a message, portray a character, or promote a brand through the use of a series of tools, design software, and color psychology.
Freelance graphic designers who design the visuals of a marketing campaign double the power of a message while reaching millions of consumers.
4.8 Creative design
This professional is in charge of offering visual alternatives to improve the projection of content. In this respect, designers communicate a message visually, creatively, and originally.
The development of this field allows the imagination of the professional to reach far, therefore it is a very sought-after area for those freelancers in Dubai who wish to show their ideas and creativity.
5. How to obtain a license to become a freelancer in Dubai?
Getting a freelance work permit in Dubai is now easy thanks to the recent policies regarding visas and immigration. To apply for a freelance visa, you must make sure to complete the next steps:
- Select your desired Free Zone and submit your application.
- Send a copy of your passport along with the application form.
- Obtain and provide a bank reference letter.
- Get a NOC from your sponsor in the UAE.
Please note that if you are applying within the education sector, you will need to submit proof of academic qualifications, which must be certified by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, or the UAE Consulate in your home country. Similarly, if you are applying within the media sector, you will need to submit your portfolio or a sample of your previous work.
5.1 No-Objection Certificate from sponsor/employer
If you have your visa from your spouse or parents, you will need a Certificate of No Objection from them before you apply for the permit.
Similarly, if you are employed full-time in Dubai and your company sponsors your visa, you will need a NOC from your employer. Keep in mind that you do not need a NOC for the renewal of your Dubai self-employment permit.
5.2 Application tracking
Once you submitted your application online, you will receive a notification. Then, a notification will be sent to you via email once it has been approved, which can take up to 10-15 days (approximately).
Then, you must go to a Dubai Knowledge Park, Dubai Media City, or Dubai Internet City business center, where you will need to sign the documents personally and pay the corresponding fees. After that, you will receive your Dubai self-employed permit via email.
6. A visa for the self-employed in the UAE
Almost all northern emirates offer the possibility to obtain a visa for self-employed workers. Some Free Zones issue self-employed licenses, while others issue regular licenses calling them “self-employed permits” due to their low cost and special conditions.
6.1 Self-employed visa in Umm Al Quwain
The UAQ Free Zone is one of the easiest and cheapest options when freelancing in the UAE. It offers the best value for money for sole proprietors. Set-up costs, freelance visa fees, and the annual renewal are the most affordable.
Freelance activities are broad, and there are options for any profession. No external approvals or educational qualifications are required to get a self-employed license here.
6.2 Self-employed visa in Ajman
Ajman Free Zone grants one of the cheapest self-employed visas in the UAE. Apart from the cost, it has one more advantage: one license can sponsor 2 residence visas.
If you need a self-employed visa in the UAE, you can share the license costs with a friend and cover yourselves for 3 years. Also, business activities are reasonable, it is possible to find a good match that suits your experience.
6.3 Freelance visa in Sharjah
Another one among the cheapest freelance visas in the UAE can be obtained through the SHAMS Free Zone. This zone offers a media professionals package, where a single shareholder is eligible for 1 residency visa. The total number of shareholders or visas shall not be modified.
This is a standard business license solution, but it is promoted as a license for freelancers due to the single shareholder status and affordable cost.
The Hamriyah Free Zone also offers a similar solution. It is an inexpensive business license with a single shareholder and the provision to apply for a UAE residency visa.
6.4 Self-employed visa in Ras Al Khaimah
The RAKEZ self-employed visa is another way to obtain a freelance work permit in the UAE. You can get a permit for most activities based on your education certificates.
If you live or work in Ras Al Khaimah, this may be suitable for you.
6.5 Freelance visa in Fujairah
The Creative City Free Zone in Fujairah has cheap freelance visa packages, which are all valid in the UAE. It does not have freelance visa options as such, but some low-cost packages that can be a proper substitute.
You should note that their “freelancer company” package is not to be confused with a freelancer license. Said package is a regular commercial company solution, but its name can easily be mistaken for one.
7. How can we help you thrive as a freelancer in Dubai?
New technologies have made it possible to develop new ways of working. In this sense, freelance work in Dubai has reached its highest levels. This is due to globalization and the recent pandemic.
We invite you to log in or register on Connect Freelance to find all the opportunities that the freelance world has for you. On our website, you will be able to create connections in our market hub, as well as find all the information you need to thrive as a freelancer.
Do you know how to boost your freelance career and obtain the necessary permits to work in the UAE? Check out our insights section where we offer you the best tips and guides.
You are just one call away from discovering all the real opportunities you can have as a freelancer in the UAE. Call us at +971 43 316 688 and we will be ready to guide you through this path. In addition, you can email us at contact@connectfreelance.ae and share with us any inquiries you may have regarding the freelance visa, work permits, activities, and traveling to the UAE! Contact us now!
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