Easiest Freelance License in UAE: What You Need to Know

This UAE Freelance License Takes Just a Few Days

Freelancing in the UAE has exploded in the last few years. With a growing digital economy, the rise of remote work, and increasing demand for flexible services, more professionals are ditching the 9-to-5 to work independently. Whether you’re a content creator, marketer, designer, coder, fitness coach, or even a consultant — freelancing can give you freedom, flexibility, and control over your income.

But there’s one important thing every freelancer in the UAE must have to work legally: a freelance license.

Getting licensed can sound confusing — many assume it’s expensive, time-consuming, or only meant for big professionals. But that’s far from the truth. In fact, there are some freelance licenses that are incredibly affordable, easy to apply for, and ideal for both beginners and experienced freelancers.

So, which is the easiest freelance license in the UAE? What’s the process like? How much does it cost? And is it really worth it?

Let’s break it all down.

Why You Need a Freelance License in the UAE

Whether you’re a resident or a newcomer, if you’re earning money through freelance work in the UAE, you need to be licensed. That’s the law. Without a proper license, you risk fines, visa issues, or even being banned from certain platforms and payment gateways.

A freelance license allows you to:

Work legally with clients in the UAE and abroad
Operate as an individual without opening a full company
Sponsor yourself for a residence visa
Open a local bank account
Issue invoices and sign contracts
Build credibility with clients

Most importantly, it protects you. With the UAE pushing toward legal and regulated freelancing, licenses are now more accessible than ever.

The Most Affordable and Easiest Option: GoFreelance by Dubai Development Authority (DDA)

One of the most popular and beginner-friendly options is the GoFreelance license offered by the Dubai Development Authority (DDA) in partnership with TECOM Group.

This is widely considered one of the easiest freelance licenses in the UAE for a few key reasons:

No need for a local sponsor
Fully online application
No office space required
Affordable pricing
Fast approval (in many cases under 7 days)
Visa support option available

It’s perfect for individuals who want to start small, test the market, or work part-time as freelancers.

Who Can Apply?

GoFreelance covers several major sectors:

Media (photographers, content creators, writers, designers, etc.)
Education (trainers, coaches, researchers)
Tech (developers, IT professionals, cybersecurity experts)
Design (interior, fashion, graphic design)

Even if you’re currently working full-time, you can still apply as long as your current employer permits it (via a No Objection Certificate or NOC).

So whether you’re a solo digital marketer or a yoga instructor offering online classes, this license gives you a legal identity in the UAE market.

How Much Does It Cost?

As of 2025, here’s a breakdown of the GoFreelance license cost:

Freelance Permit (1 year): AED 7,500
Residence Visa (optional, valid for 2 years): Approx. AED 4,000–5,000
Medical Test + Emirates ID: Approx. AED 1,200–1,500

So if you want just the freelance permit (without a visa), you can be legally licensed for around AED 7,500 a year. That’s one of the lowest costs in the UAE for a full, government-recognized freelance license.

You can later add a visa if you need one.

There are also seasonal promotions and discounts, so always check the GoFreelance or Dubai Development Authority website before applying.

The Application Process: Step-by-Step

Getting the license is easier than most people think. It can be done completely online with no office visits.

Create an Account
Go to www.gofreelance.ae and register as a new user.
Choose Your Sector
Select from Media, Tech, Education, or Design, depending on your expertise.
Upload Your Documents
You’ll typically need:
- Passport copy
- Passport-sized photo
- Updated CV
- Academic certificate (for certain categories)
- Portfolio (for creatives)
- NOC if you’re already employed in UAE
Submit and Pay
Once your documents are approved, pay the fee online.
Receive Your Permit
You’ll receive your freelance permit digitally within 5–7 business days, in most cases.
Apply for Visa (Optional)
If you want the freelance visa, you can apply via Dubai Development Authority. It takes about 1–2 weeks, including medical and Emirates ID process.

That’s it. No physical office. No sponsor. No complex steps.

Other Affordable Freelance License Options

While GoFreelance is among the easiest and most popular, here are some other low-cost options:

1. RAKEZ (Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone)

Known for affordability and flexible packages. Freelance permits start at around AED 6,100 annually.

RAKEZ is ideal if you don’t need to be in Dubai and are okay with remote operations. The only downside? You won’t have a Dubai address, which may matter to some clients.

2. Fujairah Creative City

Another low-cost option for media and creative professionals. Their freelance license starts from AED 7,000–8,000 annually, and visa packages are also available.

Fujairah’s setup process is easy and often managed through agents. Great for content creators, vloggers, and social media managers.

3. SHAMS (Sharjah Media City)

SHAMS offers budget-friendly freelance and single-owner licenses. Their license pricing starts at around AED 5,750, making it one of the cheapest options on the list.

However, it’s worth noting that some categories under SHAMS may require approval from external bodies.

Which Freelance License is Best for You?

This depends on your:

Location preference (Dubai vs other emirates)
Industry sector
Budget
Need for visa or not
Client base (Dubai-based clients may prefer working with Dubai-licensed freelancers)

If you’re just starting out and want something straightforward with Dubai credibility, GoFreelance is a safe bet.

If you’re looking to save money and don’t need a Dubai address, RAKEZ or SHAMS can be strong choices.

Can You Freelance While on Spouse or Family Visa?

Yes, you can. In fact, one of the best things about freelance licenses is that they allow flexibility with visas. If you’re already sponsored by a spouse or family member, you can still apply for a freelance permit without needing a new visa. You will just need to submit an NOC from your sponsor.

This setup allows many housewives, students, and part-time workers to earn legally without additional visa expenses.

Things to Keep in Mind

Renewals: Most freelance permits need annual renewal. Budget for this early.
Bank Account: Once you have your freelance license, you can open a business bank account or even a freelancer-friendly personal account.
Tax and Invoicing: UAE has 0% personal income tax, but if your business crosses the VAT threshold (AED 375,000 annually), you’ll need to register for VAT.
Contracts: Use formal contracts with clients. Having a freelance license helps you look professional and trustworthy.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth Getting a Freelance License in UAE?

Absolutely — especially now.

Freelancing is no longer a side hustle or plan B. It’s a full-time career path, and the UAE government is clearly supporting it through accessible licensing, visa options, and business zones.

If you’ve been holding yourself back thinking it’s complicated, expensive, or only for big influencers and coders — think again. Whether you’re a writer, photographer, fitness coach, UX designer, or even a corporate consultant — there’s a freelance license made for you.

And with options like GoFreelance, RAKEZ, and SHAMS, starting your freelance journey is now easier than ever.

So why wait?

Get licensed. Get legal. And start building your freelance dream — on your own terms.

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