How to get freelance licence in Dubai, Abu Dhabi; cost, process explained

With all the opportunities in today's gig economy, it's impossible not to make any money. Whether you're a fresh graduate looking to build your portfolio, a homemaker who wish to earn extra, or perhaps an industry veteran who want to stay busy while on retirement - freelancing is the way to go.

There's a significant market for freelancers in the UAE, where many companies - from multinationals and local conglomerates to SMEs - are in need of professional services as projects come along. Some can be one-off opportunities, while others could be regular gigs.

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It's easy to say 'yes, I'll do it' when an organisation offers a project; however, keep in mind that in the UAE, you'll need a licence to proceed. The cost and process involved in getting one vary from one emirate to another. Here's a guide.

How to get freelance licence in Dubai

With a freelance licence in the emirate, you'll be able to do business in your name, as opposed to a brand name, the Dubai Development Authority (DDA) explained in its guide.

The licence application process, which can be done online or via a customer service centre, takes two working days, the DDA said.

Cost

• Permit fees: Dh7,500
• Knowledge Dirham: Dh10
• Innovation Dirham: Dh10

Requirements

• Valid passport copy with residence visa page (if any)
• Self-declaration form (if the applicant holds a valid visa; a copy of this form can be downloaded from the https://dda.gov.ae website)
• A no-objection certificate from authorities if the segment/activity is listed on the Licensing Categories Decision (LCD) below:

Process

• To apply for the licence online, register on gofreelance.ae (click on 'Apply Now' or 'Register' on the home page).
• You will receive an e-mail with a link to the axs portal, where you can apply for the licence (https://axs2.my.site.com/axslogin).
• On the portal, choose the 'Set up as a Freelancer' service and fill out the form.
• Upload the requirements
• Pay the fees.

How to get freelance licence in Abu Dhabi

In the UAE Capital, freelancers are permitted to do about 100 activities, including photography, design, gift-wrapping, gaming consultancy, and AI development.

To be eligible for the permit, one must have experience in a certain field or earned academic or professional achievement in the sector.

Cost

• Ministry of Economy fees: Dh2,500
• Abu Dhabi Chamber fee: Dh50
• An additional amount of Dh100 each is calculated after 6 activities
• Commercial licence issuance: Dh10
• Organisational entities fee: Dh790
• Registration fee: Dh10
• Request for establishment card from the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship: Dh315
• Social contributions: Dh1,500

Requirements

• Attested certificate / academic qualification / record by issuing entity
• Experience certificates
• No-objection certificate for the foreign investor
• Professional certificates

Process

• Visit https://www.tamm.abudhabi/
• Click on 'Services; then select the 'Business' tab
• Choose 'Start a Business' and from the menu on the left side, click on 'Economic Licence'
• You will find 'Issue Economic Licence - Freelancer Licence' as one of the options.
• Log in with your UAE Pass and follow the instructions.
• The process takes about 10 working days, according to the Tamm platform.

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