So, what do you actually need to live and freelance in Dubai? The short answer: a Residency Visa, a Freelance Work Permit, Medical Insurance, and a way to legally invoice clients.

Before you send that first invoice or say yes to a client, let’s walk through exactly what you’ll need so you can freelance here legally and with complete peace of mind.

Key Takeaways

If you’re new to Dubai, you must have a residency visa and a freelance work permit to get started.
Medical insurance is mandatory for all UAE residents.
The cost depends on whether you’re applying for just a work permit or a full freelance visa package.
You’ll also need a legal way to invoice your clients in the UAE.

What You Need as a 'Newcomer' or Tourist to Freelance in Dubai

If you’re moving to Dubai to work as a freelancer, there are a few essentials you must secure before you can start taking on clients.

Freelance Visa (Residency Visa)

To legally live and work in Dubai, you must obtain a UAE Residency Visa. This visa grants you legal residency status and is valid for 2 years.

Work Permit

To freelance legally in Dubai, you must obtain a Freelance Work Permit. This is the official authorization that allows you to offer your services as an independent professional in the UAE.

Emirates ID

Your Emirates ID is your official identification in the UAE and is required for key activities such as opening a bank account, signing contracts, and accessing utilities.

Medical Insurance

All residents are required by Dubai law to have valid medical insurance that meets the minimum Dubai Health Authority standards. It’s best to arrange this as soon as your Emirates ID is processed so you’re covered from day one.

Documents You’ll Need to Get Started:

Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
Current visa (tourist visa or visa on arrival)
Passport-sized photograph (white background)

How to Invoice and Get Paid Legally as a Freelancer in Dubai.

Once you are authorized to work as a freelancer, you need to ensure you can send compliant invoices and receive payments through the correct channels. That starts with issuing proper invoices and ends with receiving funds through approved channels.

At Dynamic Freelancer, we remove the headaches around managing client invoicing and receiving payments. With Freelance Central, our all-in-one platform, you can issue legally compliant invoices in just a few clicks.

How to Receive Payments as a Freelancer

For most freelancers in Dubai, receiving payments can be a challenge.

Typical options include:

Bank transfers (local or international)
Digital wallets such as Payit or Ziina Platforms like PayPal or Payoneer
Cash or cheques for local clients

While these work, they come with complications. Freelancers are responsible for tracking every inflow, proving compliance during audits, and justifying large transfers to their bank. In some cases, banks even request additional proof of your license or contracts before clearing funds.

At Dynamic Freelancer, we’ve simplified the entire payment process. We manage and guide you through client transfers, handle accounting and VAT as needed, and ensure your payments reach you securely and in full compliance with UAE regulations.

How Much is a Freelance Visa in Dubai?

You can set up as a freelancer in Dubai with our Residence Visa Package starting from AED 9,500. This covers everything you need to live and work legally, including your residency visa, work permit, and medical insurance.

For a detailed breakdown of all our packages, including what’s included and any optional add-ons, visit our Pricing Page.

💡 Tip: Dynamic Freelancer residence packages give you added benefits such as free medical insurance and access to an invoicing platform.

We Make it Easy for You to Start Freelancing in Dubai

Setting yourself up as a freelancer in Dubai can feel overwhelming when you have to deal with permits, visas, Emirates ID applications, medical tests, bank account setup, and invoicing compliance on your own. At Dynamic Freelancer, we take all of that off your plate with flexible, affordable packages.

Here’s what we offer you:

All you have to do is fill out this form, and our experts will take care of the rest.

Can I Freelance in Dubai if I’m on a Sponsored Visa?

Yes, you can. If you are in the UAE on a family, spouse, or employment visa, you are allowed to freelance but you must apply for a Freelance Work Permit to do so legally.

Documents you’ll need to apply for a freelance permit:

Valid Emirates ID
Current resident visa
No Objection Certificate (NOC) (if you are on an employment visa)
Passport-size photograph
Residence visa cancellation document (only if you previously held a residency that has been cancelled)

With your freelance permit approved, you can start offering your services and invoice clients legally.

What Do I Need To Freelance in Dubai?