If you plan to do business in the UAE but do not want to register a company, a freelancer license is the best solution:
The fastest and least expensive way to obtain residency and register your own business in Dubai and other emirates
The opportunity to obtain residency for family members and open an account in a local bank.
The UAE is an ideal place to start a freelance career.
The country offers many options for residents and visitors considering freelance work as a way to live and work in the UAE legally.
The choice will depend on the type of activity/industry/sector. All procedures can be done online, but their cost can vary significantly depending on the field of work. Therefore, it is important to explore all the nuances before choosing the field of activity that meets your individual goals and needs.
The optimal way to start a legal business in the UAE is to obtain a freelancer permit and visa. This system is analogous to sole proprietorship in other countries, including the CIS. In 2024, the cost of such a permit averages AED 7.5K (USD 2K), and it is provided in many jurisdictions of the country. However, it is important to remember the additional expenses, with which the total cost of the visa will be at least AED 18K (USD 5K).
The permit does not cover all types of activities. It needs to be renewed annually, like the license.
Important! In most cases, to apply for a freelancer license it is necessary to provide your higher education diploma with consular legalization for the UAE.