A Freelance Visa in Dubai is a special permit that allows independent professionals to work legally without being tied to any single employer. The jobs that Indians can do with a Freelance Visa in Dubai include IT Developer, AI and Machine Learning Specialist, among others. 

For Indians wanting to tap into Dubai’s freelance economy, understanding what a Freelance Visa is and why you need it to work legally is important. Indians require this visa as it grants legal authorization to live and work in Dubai while offering multiple opportunities across various sectors. 

In short, the Freelance Visa for Dubai is a route for Indian freelancers to expand their professional horizons, experience vast work culture, and enjoy Dubai’s positive business environment.

Overview of the Freelance Visa in Dubai for Indians 

A Freelance Visa gives you the legal right and authority to work as an independent professional in the country. If you are willing to work in Dubai independently, a Freelance Visa in Dubai is definitely worth considering. This visa allows you to legally work as a freelancer in Dubai without needing a traditional employer's sponsorship. 

When you apply for a Freelance Visa in Dubai, you get the liberty to work in many high-demand sectors such as technology, media, education, and design.

One of the biggest Freelance Visa Dubai benefits is that freelancers can work with multiple clients simultaneously, enjoying a lifestyle without being tied down to one company. Moreover, there's no need for sponsorship, which makes it a hassle-free way to live and work legally in Dubai. 

All in all, the Freelance Visa in Dubai presents a good opportunity for Indian freelancers who want to expand their professional horizons, experience a global work culture, and enjoy the perks of living in one of the world's most vibrant cities. 

List of Jobs that Indians Do with a Freelance Visa in Dubai 

Dubai offers a wide range of freelance opportunities across various sectors as according to skilled professionals looking for rewarding work. Here are the top freelance job sectors in Dubai, along with popular roles and their expected salary ranges:

Also Read: Average Cost of Living in Dubai for Indian Students & Families in 2025

Eligibility Criteria for Freelance Visa in Dubai 

To obtain a Freelance Visa in Dubai, applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria made to ensure they can legally work as independent professionals in the Emirate: 

• Be at least 18 years old.
• Hold a valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity from the date of application.
• Obtain a permit from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation allowing you to work independently or as a freelancer.
• Have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree or a specialized diploma in education.
• Demonstrate a minimum self-employment income of AED 360,000 per year for the last two years. If this income level is not met, you must prove you have sufficient financial means to support yourself during your stay.
• Successfully clear a medical fitness test.
• Have a clean criminal record with no past offences.

How Much Does a Freelance Visa in Dubai Cost?

The cost of a Freelance Visa in Dubai varies depending on the type of visa, free zone, or authority involved. Generally, you can expect to pay between AED 7,500 and AED 20,000 for the initial application and registration process. Here are the costs of different Freelance Visas in Dubai: 

Also Read: Master’s in Business Administration in Dubai in 2025

How to Apply for a Dubai Freelance Visa from India? 

Applying for a Freelance Visa in Dubai is a simple process made to help skilled professionals legally work independently in this city. By following these right steps and meeting eligibility requirements, you can start your freelance journey smoothly: 

Select Your Freelance Category

Find out the freelance activity or sector, like technology, education, media, or design, that aligns with your professional skills and interests. This can be beneficial in aligning with the right regulatory requirements and the free zone authority. 

• Choose a Free Zone or Mainland Authority

Plan if you want to apply through one of Dubai’s free zones like Dubai Media City, Dubai Internet City, Dubai Design District, or Dubai Knowledge Park; or through the Dubai mainland under the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).

• Secure a Freelance Permit

Submit your application for a freelance permit/license with the chosen free zone or mainland authority. This permit legally authorizes your freelance business activities and usually takes around 5 to 15 days to process.

1. Prepare and Submit Required Documents
   Gather documents, including: 

• Prepare and Submit Required Documents:
• Passport copy with a minimum of 6 months' validity
• Recent passport-sized photographs
• Educational certificates, and portfolio, or proof of experience
• Completed application forms
• No Objection Certificate (NOC) if currently on a UAE visa sponsored by an employer (for mainland applications)
• Proof of financial resources and health insurance

• Apply for the Freelance Visa

After obtaining the freelance permit, apply for the Freelance Visa/residence visa. This includes undergoing a medical fitness test and providing health insurance proof.

• Apply for an Establishment Card (if required)

Some free zones require you to get an establishment card, which aids in visa processing and sponsoring family dependents.

• Attend Medical Tests and Biometrics

Complete the important medical fitness examination and biometric data submission as part of visa formalities.

• Receive Your Freelance Visa

Once approved, your Freelance Visa will be issued, allowing you to live and work legally in Dubai. 

• Visa Renewal and Ongoing Compliance

Freelance Visas typically require renewal every 1, 2, or 3 years, depending on your free zone or authority. Stay compliant with any updated rules and renewal fees.

Unlock Your Freelance Career in Dubai with Expert Guidance from GetGIS

Whether expanding your professional network or establishing a global presence, GetGIS offers personalized support for a seamless Freelance Visa application and settling experience in Dubai’s dynamic market. Start your journey today! 

Book Your Consultation!

Read More: 

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• Post-Study Work Options in UAE
• Residence Visa for Studying in the UAE