What is a Freelance Visa?
A freelance visa in the UAE allows individuals to legally work without being tied to a traditional employer. It’s ideal for professionals in creative, consulting, tech, education, or digital services.
A standard freelance setup includes:
- Freelance license (permit)
- Optional UAE residence visa
- Emirates ID and access to essential services
Freelance Visa Packages – UAE Free Zones (2025)
Below are updated all-in price ranges (license + visa + setup) verified with official authorities as of 2025. Costs may vary based on activity and duration.
RAKEZ – Freelance Visa Ras Al Khaimah
- Freelance Permit Range: AED 5,999 – 12,500
- RAKEZ Official Source
UAQ Free Zone – Freelance Visa Umm Al Quwain
- Freelance Package Range: AED 7,000 – 13,000
- UAQ FTZ Source
SHAMS – Freelance Visa Sharjah Media City
- Freelance Package Range: AED 6,000 – 13,000
- SHAMS Source
Creative City – Freelance Visa Ajman / Fujairah
- Freelance Package Range: AED 6,000 – 13,500
- Creative City Source
Abu Dhabi – Freelance Visa (Twofour54 / ADDED)
- Freelance Package Range: AED 12,000 – 15,000
- (Contact ADDED or Twofour54 for latest pricing)
Freelance License Dubai – E-Trader Permit
- Cost: AED 1,049/year (license only)
- Visa: Not included
- DED Source
Only for Dubai residents with a valid Emirates ID.
Open a Freelancer Bank Account in UAE
Freelancers can open a business bank account via Wio Bank, even with just a freelance permit.
Apply at Wio
Freelance vs 1-Visa License (Why RAKEZ May Be Smarter)
If you're planning to grow beyond solo freelancing, RAKEZ’s 1 visa business license is a strategic upgrade. Costs are similar, but it enables expansion, leasing commercial space, and branding under your name.
Benefits of a Freelance Visa in the UAE
- 100% ownership of your activity and income
- No need for a physical office space
- Flexibility to work with multiple clients across the UAE
- Access to UAE residency, Emirates ID, and personal bank accounts
- Legal structure to invoice clients, sign contracts, and open a Wio bank account
FAQs About Freelance Visas
Q1: What is a freelance visa in the UAE?
A legal residency visa that allows you to work independently without being employed by a company. It includes a freelance permit and Emirates ID.
Q2: Can I sponsor my family on a freelance visa?
Yes. Once you obtain your freelance visa and Emirates ID, you can apply to sponsor your spouse and children.
Q3: Can I open a bank account with a freelance permit?
Yes. Banks like Wio and others support freelancers who hold valid UAE licenses.
Q4: Can I work with companies under a freelance visa?
Yes. As a freelancer, you can legally invoice and work with multiple UAE-based and international clients.
Q5: Is a freelance visa better than a job visa?
It depends on your goals. Freelance visas offer independence and flexibility, but you’ll manage your own taxes and renewals.
Q6: Is it possible to upgrade to a full business license later?
Absolutely. Many free zones like RAKEZ allow you to convert to a 1-visa company license if you plan to expand.
Q7: Which is the cheapest freelance visa in the UAE?
Currently, UAQ FTZ and Creative City offer the most competitive all-in freelance packages, starting from AED 12,500 depending on activity and service level.
Final Thoughts
Searching for the cheapest freelance visa in UAE? Or ready to grow as a solo entrepreneur? Whether it’s a freelance license in Dubai, visa in Ajman, or full setup in Sharjah—CSPZone helps you apply via official channels, without middleman markups.
Message us today to compare freelance visa costs and get expert advice.
