Freelance License in UAE is one of the most popular business license categories especially with the new entrepreneurs and youngsters entering the business world. By obtaining a Freelance License in UAE the individual can practice their profession in UAE.
The Freelance License in UAE is for the individual and is not a separate legal entity. The Freelancer can open a bank account in the name of the individual. Additionally, as against a company license, the freelance license is not renewable every year. It has a two year validity.
Where to Get a Freelance License in UAE?
UAE is a perfect choice for investors to start a business venture successfully due to the growing business opportunities. So, to start small and explore the market first before expanding the company, getting a Freelance License is helpful.
A Freelance License in UAE can be obtained from either the Mainland or Free Zones. However, there are a few limitations to a Freelance License in UAE. The Freelance Permit can be taken for only one shareholder.
Also, there is no provision to hire employees under the Freelance Permit or Freelance License in UAE. Furthermore, large corporate companies may not be always able to deliver contracts to freelance permit holders due to their contract policy guidelines.
1. Freelance License from Mainland of Dubai
In Dubai, the Department of Economic Development, DED offers Freelance License mostly for service-type business activities. Freelancers can opt for a 2-year visa from the mainland by paying the required visa fee to obtain residency in UAE.
The Freelance Permit or the Freelance License in Dubai can be applied from the DED by paying the required fee and submitting the freelance profile, photograph, and passport copy. A freelance Permit in Dubai is issued to the individual and it is not for a company.
2. Freelance License from Free Zone in Dubai
The Freelance License from Free Zones is the most sought-after as they offer attractive benefits and easy business setup packages. The Free Zones are the perfect choice for Freelance License due to their robust business ecosystem and facilities offered at affordable cost.
Taking a Freelance License in UAE from the Free Trade Zones of UAE is highly beneficial for the entrepreneur. Most of the Free Zones in UAE have a competitive Freelance license that newbies can obtain for a lesser cost.
The Free Zones offer the perfect infrastructure and support services for Freelancers to easily scale up their business venture, collaborate with teams, and gain business profitability.
To know more read: Freelance License Visas in UAE
How to Get a Freelance License in UAE? – Steps Explained
Freelance Permits from the Free Zones is available within hours of submitting the documents and making the fee payment. The investor can choose from a wide range of business activities that are available in the Free Zones.
Obtaining a Freelance License from UAE Free Zones is a simple process. There are selected business activities for which a Freelance License is available. Also, the individual can apply for a Freelance License in UAE at a lower cost than starting a company.
To apply for a Freelance License, the individual has to choose their preferred Free Trade Zone that offers the Freelance License in UAE. Also, choose the desired business activity. Submit the passport copy and photograph and make the payment.
After the application review process, the individual will be issued a Freelance License Permit in the UAE. The process of applying for a Freelance License in UAE is easier than setting up a company as the Freelance License is a permit for the individual.
So, there is no company name approval involved in a Freelance License. The individual will be able to conduct their desired business service on a freelance basis upon obtaining the permit from the right Licensing Authority.
The Cost of a Freelance License in UAE varies depending on the Free Zones. For example, the Freelance License package with 1 Visa starts at AED 15,435 for media and eCommerce-related activities.
What is the difference between a Trading License and a Freelance License in UAE?
There is a distinct difference between a Trading License and Freelance in UAE. The Trading License in UAE paves way to setting up a small company with a specific business idea. Whereas a freelance License in UAE is a permit given to an Individual who wants to start a freelance work.
The individual cannot set up a company under the Freelance License. However, they can work from Co-Working Spaces, Shared Desks. etc. Freelancers can apply for dependents visa in UAE. They can easily start their freelancing journey by rendering the services legally without any hassle.
In comparison to a Freelance License, a Trading License allows the individual to open a new company and take an office space. They can then hire new employees, put up the company signboard, open a business bank account, and more.
The individual can be either the owner or the managing director of the newly set up company. Under the company, they can apply for an investor visa in the UAE and a corporate bank account. There are numerous advantages in obtaining a Trading License in UAE.
For any queries on obtaining a Trading License or Freelance Permit in UAE, connect with our expert team right away!
