Best free zones for a freelance permit
| Free zone | Permit from* | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| GoFreelance (TECOM, Dubai) | ~AED 7,500+ | Media, tech, education freelancers wanting a Dubai permit |
| SHAMS (Sharjah) | ~AED 5,750+ | Cheapest media/creative freelance permit |
| Ajman Free Zone | ~AED 5,500+ | Budget freelance across services |
| RAKEZ (Ras Al Khaimah) | ~AED 6,000+ | Low-cost freelance, wide fields |
| Fujairah Creative City | ~AED 6,000+ | Remote-friendly media/consultancy freelance |
*Indicative permit-only prices; the residence visa is extra. Estimate the all-in cost →
How to get one
- Pick a free zone that lists your freelance field.
- Apply with passport, photo and CV/portfolio.
- Pay for the freelance permit (issued in days).
- Process the residence visa: establishment card, entry permit, medical, Emirates ID.
- Open a bank account and start invoicing.
Freelance visa — FAQs
How do I get a freelance visa in the UAE?
Choose a free zone that issues freelance permits (GoFreelance, SHAMS, RAKEZ, Ajman, Fujairah Creative City), apply with your passport, photo and CV/portfolio for your field, pay for the freelance permit, then apply for the residence visa (establishment card, entry permit, medical, Emirates ID). It usually takes a few days to a couple of weeks.
How much does a UAE freelance permit cost?
Freelance permits start from about AED 5,500–7,500 depending on the free zone, plus the residence visa (~AED 3,800–5,500) if you need UAE residence. Budget zones (SHAMS, Ajman, RAKEZ) are the cheapest; GoFreelance gives a Dubai permit for a bit more.
What fields can get a freelance permit?
Commonly media and content, technology/IT, education/training, design, marketing and consultancy. Each zone publishes its list of permitted freelance activities — pick one that lists your work.
Freelance permit vs company licence — which do I need?
A freelance permit lets you work solo under your own name — cheapest and simplest. Choose a full company licence if you'll hire staff, use a brand/trade name, or need broader activities.
Can a freelancer get residency or the Golden Visa?
Yes — a freelance permit supports a residence visa, and outstanding talent/specialists can qualify for the Green or 10-year Golden Visa.
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Last updated: September 2026 · Maintained by the My Business Setup editorial team