UAE freelance licence and permit in 2026: options, costs and visas
MoHRE, Abu Dhabi, Dubai and free zone routes compared, plus the Green Visa for established freelancers.
Freelancing legally in the UAE needs a licence or permit. There are several routes, and the licence and the residence visa are separate.
Main routes
- Federal freelance permit from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE), valid across the emirates
- Abu Dhabi mainland freelance licence through the TAMM platform
- Dubai free zone freelance packages
- Lower-cost free zone freelance licences in other emirates
Typical year-one costs
Published 2026 estimates put total year-one costs, including the licence, residence visa, medical, Emirates ID and insurance, at roughly AED 6,000 to 20,000, depending on the route.
Green Visa
Established freelancers can apply for a five-year, self-sponsored Green Visa. It requires a MoHRE freelance permit, a bachelor's degree or specialised diploma, and a minimum freelance income over the previous two years.
Get your first clients
A simple website, a LinkedIn profile written for your ideal client and a fast WhatsApp reply win more freelance work than a long portfolio.
Rules, fees and processes change often. Confirm the details with the relevant authority or a licensed adviser before you commit.
