Dubai’s freelancing market is vast and globally recognised. For this reason, several expats from around the world settle here as freelancers. Whether you are a marketing specialist or a software developer, Dubai offers you several freelancing opportunities. However, you must have a freelance licence in Dubai to explore remote opportunities and work as a freelancer.
Let’s discuss everything about the issuance of Freelance Licenses in Dubai!
- Overview
- Freelance Business Activities According to DDA
- Eligibility Criteria
- Required Documents
- Required Fees
- Application Process
- DDA Office Location
- Contact Details
- Working Hours
- FAQs
Overview
A freelanse licence is an integral requirement for applying for a freelance visa in Dubai. As a result, the Dubai Development Authority (DDA) introduced an easy way to apply for this licence, which you can receive within two days.
DDA has also outlined more than sixty activities under its various segments that a freelancer can do in Dubai. These business activities include animation, videography, IT, telecommunication networking and more.
Due to this freelance licence in Dubai, the application process for a UAE residence visa has also become convenient. Now, you can also apply for a Green Visa under the freelancer or self-employed category.
Freelance Business Activities According to DDA
Dubai Development Authority has listed hundreds of job roles according to one’s chosen field, whether it be information technology or the fashion industry. The authority also specified the business activities of freelancers in its document to make freelancing in the UAE convenient.
For instance, the major categories of ICT freelancers, as per DDA’s Segment 16.5, are as follows:
- Web, Mobile, Software Development and Architecture Freelancer
- IT and Telecommunication Networking Freelancer
- Data Science and Analytics Freelancer
- Customer Service Freelancer
In addition to the above categories, DDA has mentioned sixty more freelancing activities under its various segments. So, let’s look at these business activities you can opt for while working in the UAE.
| Freelancing Activities Under DDA Segments 18.9, 21.13 and 25.10 | ||
| Aerial Shoot Photographer | Animator | Artists and Actors |
| Audio/Sound Engineer | Brand Consultant | Web Developer |
| Graphic Designer | Illustrator | Market Analyst |
| Marketing Specialist | Media Planner | New Media Specialist |
| Photojournalist | Print Media Specialist | Social Media Specialist |
| Special Effects Producer | Social Media Influencer | Editor: Publishing Content Provider |
| Creative Director | Critics: Music, Film, Theatre | Director: Film, Television, Music, Theatre |
| Editor: Audio/Video | Presenter (TV/Radio) | Lighting Specialist |
| Photographer | Producer | Scriptwriter |
| Cameraman | Choreographer | Commentators: Radio, Events, Sports, Television |
| Composer | Music Director | Musician |
| Translator | Writer | Executive Coaching |
| Researcher | Trainer | Copywriter |
| Events Planner | Furniture Designer | Apparel Designer |
| Concept Designer | Costume Designer | Fashion Artist |
| Fashion Designer | PR Specialist | Set and Exhibit Designer |
| Wardrobe Stylist | Hair Stylist | Image Consultant |
| Interior Designer | Jewellery Designer | Make-up Artist |
| Object Designer | Personal Shopper | Textile Designer |
| Visual Merchandiser | Wedding Planner | Web Designer |
Eligibility Criteria
The eligibility criteria for Freelance License Dubai applicants are as follows:
- Applicants must be 18 years old.
- They must have a valid passport with six months of validity.
- Candidates must possess a bachelor’s degree or specialised diploma. However, it is required for some professions, like software development and architecture.
- Applicants have to demonstrate their specialised skills, knowledge or experience in a specific field through a portfolio.
Required Documents
The requirements for the issuance of a freelancer permit are explicit. Here are all the necessary documents you must submit at DDA:
- Valid passport with residence visa page (if any)
- Self-declaration form (copy available on dda.gov.ae website). Also, it is only applicable if the applicant holds a valid visa.
- No Objection Certificate from authorities for segment/activity listed on Licensing Categories Decision (if applicable).
Required Fees
The following is the fee breakdown for DDA’s freelance licence application:
- Freelancer Licence Fee: AED 7,500
- Knowledge Fee: AED 10
- Innovation Fee: AED 10
Application Process
DDA offers two application procedures for the freelancer permit to provide the maximum convenience to its applicants. Here is the step-by-step process for each method:
1. Via Online Platform
By following the steps mentioned below, you can register for your freelance license online:
- Step 1: First, visit the official website of the TECO group. Now select Set up as a Freelancer.
- Step 2: Then, fill out your personal and business information.
- Step 3: Complete the form with a ReCaptcha and click on submit.
- Step 4: Then, upload all the required documents.
- Step 5: Once your documents are verified, pay the required fees. You can pay according to the invoice using available payment methods.
- Step 6: The authority will send you an acknowledgement of receiving the application.
- Step 7: You will receive your freelance permit within the estimated time of two working days.
2. Via Customer Service Centre
If you want to apply for your licence physically, then visit the DDA customer service centre and follow the steps below:
Step 1: Visit DDA’s customer service in Dubai Studio City.
Step 2: Then, based on the nature of your business activities, contact the Partner Relationship Manager (PRM) from the business community.
Step 3: Attach the required documents and submit your application
Step 4: You will then receive an invoice for the required fee.
Step 5: Pay the fee using the mentioned payment methods.
Step 6: You will then receive your freelancer licence within two working days (estimated time).
Location
DDA customer service centre is located on the Ground Floor of Commercial Building 1 in Dubai Studio City. You can follow the map below to reach your destination without any inconvenience.
Contact Details
You can also contact DDA’s official phone number and email address for further details.
- Phone: 800-4-DDA (332)
- For international calls: +971-4-390-0500
- Email: info@dda.gov.ae
Working Hours
DDA’s online platform is operational 24/7. However, for its PRM services, you can visit the centre from:
- Monday to Friday: 08:00 am to 04:30 pm
- Saturday and Sunday: Closed
FAQs
Yes, you need a licence to work freelance in Dubai. So, apply for a Freelance Permit online via TECOM’s official website for around AED 7,500.
Dubai attracts freelancers globally due to its vibrant economy and diverse opportunities. However, obtaining a Dubai freelance permit and visa is a crucial step in this lucrative industry.
A freelance license is a work permit allowing legal business activities in the UAE, whereas a freelance visa is a residence visa. This visa issued by the UAE registration authority is based on the freelance permit.
A Freelance License in Dubai is an essential document for visa applications, whether it be for residency or work. So, by following the step-by-step registration process via DDA’s virtual or physical platforms, you can obtain your freelancer’s permit swiftly. You can also learn about the Golden Visa, which provides residence for 10 years.
