How Can I Easily Become A Freelancer in Dubai?

In recent years, Dubai has emerged as a thriving hub for businesses, entrepreneurs, and freelancers alike. Renowned for its luxurious lifestyle, iconic skyscrapers, and pristine beaches, Dubai offers an alluring blend of cosmopolitan charm and a business-friendly environment. 

Aspiring IT freelancers seeking a fresh start or seasoned tech professionals seeking to broaden their horizons are increasingly attracted to this vibrant city, which presents a multitude of opportunities and advantages.

In the words of Crunch Dubai: “The post-pandemic world has seen a surge in remote work, and Dubai has seized this opportunity to position itself as a premier destination for digital nomads”. 

The city’s remarkable transformation into a global business epicentre has been a key factor in its appeal to independent IT consultants and self-employed workers from around the world. 

In this article we will take a look at why you should consider IT freelancing from Dubai and how you can make it happen with ease.  

What Are The Advantages Of Working in Dubai As An IT Freelancer?

Dubai’s strategic location bridges the gap between East and West, making it an ideal base for remote work and project collaborations across time zones. 

Dubai’s modern infrastructure, cutting-edge technology, and state-of-the-art facilities make for a seamless working experience, providing IT freelancers with the necessary tools to succeed. 

Let’s explore some of the other big wins that make Dubai a great   destination for IT freelancers.

Exceptional Living Environment

Dubai is famed for its cosmopolitan lifestyle and modern infrastructure. The city boasts world-class amenities, luxurious accommodation options, and a range of recreational facilities that all add up to an excellent standard of living. 

The city of Dubai has everything from pristine beaches to jaw-dropping structures, with a unique blend of untouched beauty and architectural wonders.  Its well-planned urban layout and efficient transportation system further enhance the quality of life for residents, providing seamless connectivity to various business and leisure hubs.

A perfect setting to thrive in your IT freelance career! 

Quality of Life

Dubai’s commitment to providing a high standard of living is evident in its robust healthcare system and top-tier educational institutions. 

Residents benefit from access to a diverse culinary scene, a wide array of entertainment options and a high level of safety and security, ensuring a peaceful and comfortable environment for individuals and families alike.

Tax-Free Income

One of the most appealing aspects of IT freelancing in Dubai is the absence of personal income tax. Indeed, the United Arab Emirates does not levy income tax on individuals, though it does levy corporate tax on oil companies and foreign banks. 

This means that IT contractors and self-employed professionals can enjoy the entirety of their earnings without the burden of traditional taxes. This financial advantage allows freelancers to maximise income and make substantial savings.

Business Opportunities

Dubai’s thriving freelance ecosystem encompasses various fields, particularly those relevant to IT and tech. 

IT Freelancers specialising in:

• Web and Mobile Development
• Software Development and Architecture
• IT and Telecommunication Networking
• Data Science and Analytics
• Customer Service

 can explore a wealth of opportunities in Dubai. These activities are permitted under the freelance permit Dubai, allowing  IT consultants and freelancers to leverage their skills and expertise in a dynamic market.

Additionally, IT freelancers in Dubai can take advantage of platforms like GoFreelance, which is a Dubai-run group that aims to empower freelance talent and contribute to the transformation of the economy. 

GoFreelance provides freelancers with access to exclusive opportunities to find and bid on projects by local companies, expanding their network through the Marketplace, an online platform designed to support their growth.

How Do I Become An IT Freelancer in Dubai?

Dubai is a major hub for freelancers, and the United Arab Emirates government has made it relatively easy to obtain a freelance visa and permit. Here are the steps involved.

What Is The Difference Between A Work Permit And A Visa In Dubai ?

In Dubai, it is essential to differentiate between a work permit and a visa. 

Work permit

A work permit, also known as a labour card or licence, is issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation and allows you to work for a specific employer in the United Arab Emirates. Freelancers typically require a freelance licence (Sole Professional License) to legally operate their businesses in the city.

Visa

On the other hand, a visa is an entry permit that allows an individual to reside in Dubai for a specific period. Similarly, as for the work permit, you will specifically need a Green visa to live in Dubai as an IT freelancer. 

The UAE’s green visa is a residence visa that allows its holder to sponsor themselves for five years, removing the requirement for a UAE resident or employer to sponsor his/her visa.

The Steps To Follow To Obtain A Green Visa & Freelance Licence In Dubai

You can apply for a freelance permit through the Dubai Development Authority website. The application process is relatively simple and can be completed online. Select the option Set up your business, fill out the application form, and submit the required documents. The fee for applying for a Permit is AED 7500.00. You will need:

• Valid passport copy of applicant with Residence Visa Page (if any)
• NOC from external authorities according to the Licensing Categories Decision (LCD), Article 08. (If applicable)
• Self-Declaration Form (applicable if holds a valid visa)

To obtain a Green Visa, you will need to match the following requirements to be eligible.

• Attain self-employment or freelance permit from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation.
• Education level: Minimum bachelor’s degree or specialised diploma.
• A minimum annual income of AED 360,000 via self-employment over the past two years, or the applicant has to prove financial solvency through their stay.

You will also need a personal photo and a copy of the passport, with a validity of no less than 6 months. You can apply here. The fee may vary from AED 200 to 1000.

What professional activities are possible with a freelance permit?

Dubai provides a wide range of professional activities that are permissible under a freelance licence. The diverse opportunities available cater to various skill sets and allow freelancers to find their niche in the market. These activities include:

• IT and software development
• Writing and Editing
• Marketing and advertising
• Design and graphics
• Consulting
• Translation
• Education
• And more

So, becoming an IT freelancer in Dubai involves navigating a series of complex and time-consuming procedures. From obtaining a freelance visa to understanding the permissible professional activities and considering the associated costs, the entire process can be long-winded and tiring. 

It is essential to seek guidance from reliable sources, consult with the relevant authorities, and be prepared for the necessary paperwork and documentation. One great way to make things easier for yourself is to work with a management company that can take over a lot of the admin for you.

Why Join A Management Company To Freelance in Dubai?

When embarking on a freelance IT journey in Dubai, partnering with a reputable management company can provide numerous advantages and streamline the process. Hightekers is a company that specialises in expatriation for IT, Tech, and Digital freelancers and offers tailored solutions to facilitate a seamless experience. 

Here are just a few of the reasons why engaging a management company like Hightekers can be beneficial for IT freelancers looking to move to Dubai.

• Local Contract: By obtaining a local work contract through a business management company like Hightekers, IT freelancers can enjoy the benefits of living in Dubai without the need for a separate work permit. With this arrangement, freelancers will still need to acquire the necessary visa.
• Legal and Compliant Work Setup: Working through a business management company ensures self-employed IT consultants can operate legally and in compliance with local regulations in Dubai, regardless of their clients’ locations worldwide. This provides IT freelancers with peace of mind, knowing  they are adhering to the rules and requirements of the city while enjoying the flexibility of servicing clients from anywhere.
• Hassle-free Financial Management: The management company handles invoicing and account management. By taking care of these administrative tasks, IT contractors andfreelancers can focus on their core work whilst saving time and energy.
• 0% Tax:  IT Freelancers under Hightekers or similar arrangements can enjoy the benefit of 0% tax, maximising their earnings and enhancing their financial prospects.
• Local Expert Guidance: Receive dedicated local advice and support throughout the entire professional expatriation journey.  Independent IT consultants can rely on Highteker’s expertise to navigate the intricate processes, address any concerns, and receive step-by-step guidance.
• Comprehensive Benefits: Access social security coverage, supplementary health insurance, and other perks associated with employment contracts. These benefits provide additional security and support to IT  freelancers, enhancing  your overall professional experience.
• Expansive Network Opportunities: Join a powerful network of IT, Tech, and Digital consultants in both Europe and Dubai. This network opens doors to potential collaborations, shared assignment opportunities, training sessions, networking events, and knowledge sharing.

Conclusion

To wrap things up, becoming an IT freelancer in Dubai is an exciting opportunity for many IT specialists.  

However, the process of moving there and  handling all of the vital administrationonce there can be quite a hassle. 

Partnering with Hightekers will give you access to expert knowledge and practical support with the necessary paperwork and legalities. This gives you more time to focus on your freelance IT business and your new life in Dubai! 

Join Hightekers Today!