How long does approval take in 2026?

Mainland approvals take 5 to 10 working days. Free zone approvals are usually 3 to 7 working days once documents are complete.

Can I sponsor family on a freelance visa?

Yes. Most free zones and mainland licences allow family sponsorship after you hold the permit for three months and meet salary thresholds set by ICP.

Is a physical office required?

Free zones accept flexi-desks from AED 6,000 yearly. Mainland options require a physical tenancy contract unless you qualify for the new remote-work package.

How to Get a Freelance Permit in UAE: Step by Step

Who Needs a Freelance Permit in 2026

Any expat earning income from clients inside or outside the UAE must hold a valid freelance permit. Without one, you risk fines from MOHRE and potential visa cancellation. The permit also lets you open a UAE business bank account and issue tax invoices.

Choose Between Mainland and Free Zone

Mainland permits are issued by the Department of Economic Development in each emirate. They allow you to work with government entities and mainland companies without restrictions. Free zone permits, such as those from Meydan, SPC, or IFZA, cost less but limit you to clients outside the free zone unless you pay extra fees.

Mainland: AED 15,000 to AED 22,000 per year plus 5 percent VAT
Free zone: AED 7,500 to AED 12,000 per year, activity list restricted

Documents You Must Prepare

Collect these before you start the application. All documents need English or Arabic translation certified by the Ministry of Justice if they are not already in English.

Valid passport copy with six months validity
Passport-size photo with white background
CV or portfolio showing relevant experience
Business plan of one page stating your services and target clients
No objection certificate if you already hold a UAE residence visa

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Reserve your trade name through the DED portal or the chosen free zone portal. 2. Submit the application and pay the initial approval fee. 3. Complete medical fitness and Emirates ID biometrics at an approved centre. 4. Sign the tenancy contract for a flexi-desk or physical office. 5. Receive your licence and open a corporate bank account within 30 days.

Renewal, Taxes and Compliance

Renew your permit 30 days before expiry through the same portal. You must file corporate tax returns if turnover exceeds AED 375,000. Keep all invoices for five years. Failure to renew on time adds AED 1,000 per month in penalties from the licensing authority.

Ask Tovi for more

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Got more UAE questions?

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