Abu Dhabi Freelancer License Complete Guide
The Abu Dhabi freelancer license allows an individual to practise professional activities based on their own skill set. It is ideal for individuals wanting to start their own business in a field in which they are qualified and competent.
Overview
✔️ Cheapest license-type in Abu Dhabi
✔️ 100% foreign ownership
✔️ No local sponsor required
✔️ Mainland license - work throughout Abu Dhabi emirate
✔️ Work with Abu Dhabi government, ADNOC, Mubadala etc.
✔️ No commercial premises needed
✔️ Flexibility to work from home, remote-work etc.
✔️ 12 months validity, renewable annually
✔️ Increasing choice of business activities
✔️ Not possible to hire employees
✔️ Freelance visa - optional, with ability to sponsor family visas
✔️ Some banks may offer corporate banking facilities
Who Can Apply For The Abu Dhabi Freelancer License?
Who The License Is Suitable For
✔️ Freelancers
✔️ Skilled professionals
✔️ Entrepreneurs, solo-preneurs
✔️ Side hustles - test the market whilst remaining in full time employment
✔️ Side hustles - build up a regular monthly income before quitting the 9 to 5
✔️ One-man-bands
✔️ Sole proprietors
✔️ Skilled housewives wanting to boost their household income
✔️ Unemployed specialists wanting to stay in the UAE
✔️ Skilled professionals wanting to be in control of their visa
Who Is Eligible For The License
✔️ Applicants must be over 18.
✔️ UAE citizens
✔️ UAE residents
✔️ GCC Nationals (need to have previously visited the UAE)
✔️ Non-residents (need to have previously visited the UAE)
Certain business activities require the applicant to be either a UAE citizen or resident due to the special approvals needed. Check our Freelance License Setup Packages to confirm if you meet the requirements.
Abu Dhabi Freelance License Legal Structure & Ownership
Mainland or Free Zone?
The Abu Dhabi freelance license is a mainland license, issused by the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED), enabling the license holder to work throughout the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. This is not a free zone license.
Legal Form
The Abu Dhabi freelance license takes on the legal form of an establishment, which means it is wholly-owned by one person, who assumes total responsibility for the finances and liabilities associated with the license, in their individual capacity.
Ownership
100% by an individual. The freelance license relates the specifically to the specialist skills of the individual holding the license.
If two or more persons are wanting to start a business together, the freelance license is not suitable. An alternative license-type should be considered.
Share Capital
Not applicable.
Local Sponsor?
There is no requirement for a local sponsor.
Exisiting Residence Visa
If the Abu Dhabi freelance license holder has an existing residence visa, it is not necessary to make any changes to the visa status.
This license-type is ideal for individuals wanting to start a side business, whilst still in full-time employment. It enables the license holder to continue working under their existing employer's visa sponsorship, whilst building up sufficient regular income for themselves, before commiting to going 100% all-in and being fully self-employed. (The individual should check they won't be contravening any non-compete agreements they might have signed with their existing employer, if they will be providing the same/similar services, which would be in direct competition.)
Abu Dhabi Freelance Visa
Abu Dhabi Freelance license holders can apply for a residence visa, if required. Once the trade license has been issued, it will be necessary for the license holder to be inside the country so we can register the new trade license in Immigration and apply for an Establishment Card, before starting the visa application process. Upon successfully obtaining their visa, the license holder can then sponsor their family members, providing they meet the requirements.
Abu Dhabi Freelancer License Details
Processing Time
Upon submission of the complete information, the license application is usually reviewed quickly, with the license issuance within three to five working days.
Trade License Validity
The Abu Dhabi freelance license is issued for a period of 12 months.
Trade License Renewal
The license needs to be renewed annually. Delays in renewing the license will incur fines for the license holder which will increase each month the license is not renewed.
Trade License Cancellation
When the license is no longer required, it needs to be cancelled and removed from the official registry. Failure to cancel the license will result in fines accruing, as well as liabilities relating to non-filing of tax returns.
Abu Dhabi Freelancer License Visa Details
License Holder
Type of Visa
Investor Visa
Visa Validity
Two Years. To ensure it remains valid, you must not stay outside of the country for more than six months at a time.
Visa Renewal
The visa needs to be renewed every two years. Delays in renewing your visa will incur fines increase on a daily basis until the visa is either renewed or cancelled.
Visa Cancellation
When the visa is no longer required, it needs to be cancelled, any fines paid, and removed from the immigration system.
Is the Visa Mandatory or Optional?
Applying for a visa under the Abu Dhabi freelancer license is optional.
Who is the sponsor of the visa?
The freelancer license (your new company) sponsors your visa, which means you have full control, and that is why the license must be issued first. The license needs to be renewed and kept active all the time you want the visa.
Processing Time
Approx. 10-14 working days. However, during the process, it will be necessary for you to arrange your health insurance which may add extra days.
Visa Health Insurance
Health insurance is mandatory for all visa holders. It is your responsibility to arrange your health insurance cover. It must be arranged via an Abu Dhabi registered insurance provider or broker. It can only be applied for during the visa application process, which is the time when some of the documents required are created. Delays in arranging or renewing your health insurance incurs fines issued by the Abu Dhabi Health Authority (HAAD). Whilst the insurance and visa systems are now linked, occasionally we are still requested to provide a copy of the insurance card (not the certificate of insurance) as proof of an active policy.
We strongly urge all applicants to seek out indicative health insurance costs in advance, especially if you have any pre-existing conditions. Insurance premiums are based upon the level of coverage required, age, sex, and pre existing conditions. Applicants are often shocked at how expensive health insurance is.
Visa Medical
All visa applications, new and renewal, require the applicant to have a visa medical, which includes a blood test, screening for HIV, and an Xray, screening for Pulmonary Tuberculosis. If you haven’t previously had an Emirates ID card, you’ll also need a biometrics appointment with the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, to provide your fingerprints and an eye scan. If this all sounds a bit daunting, don’t worry, our team will make all of the necessary arrangements and we’ll accompany you to the appointments with all of the paperwork you’ll need. You, literally, just have to turn up.
Requirements
Abu Dhabi Freelancer License Only
✔️ Full name
✔️ Date of birth
✔️ Nationality
✔️ Residential address (inc. verification, e.g. utility bill)
✔️ Mobile number
✔️ Email address
✔️ Source of funds
✔️ Occupation, employer & tax number
✔️ UAE Pass App (download on your mobile phone and register)
✔️ UID Number (only for overseas applicants)
✔️ Passport copy (minimum 6 months validity)
✔️ Visa copy (only UAE citizen and resident applicants)
✔️ Emirates ID copy (only UAE citizen and resident applicants)
✔️ Proof of expertise in the activity being applied for:
University degree (Attested) or
Certificate of experience or accredited accomplishments (Attested)
✔️ No Objection Certificate (NOC) in Arabic addressed to the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (only applicants who are currently working in the UAE).
✔️ Purpose of the transaction
(The UID Number (Unified Identification Number) is a six digit number given to all UAE visitors upon arrival. It may be in the form of a small white sticker attached to a page in your passport by the immigration officer; alternatively, if you used the e-gates, rather than passing through the traditional immigration counter, you can search for your number here: https://gdrfad.gov.ae/en/unified-number-inquiry-service )
Abu Dhabi Freelancer License & Visa
If you HAVEN'T previously had a UAE visa
✔️ Everything in the Freelance License list PLUS:
✔️ Passport size studio photo, white background (soft copy)
✔️ Health insurance
✔️ Marital status
✔️ Mother’s name
✔️ Religion
✔️ Home country residential address
✔️ Home country telephone number
✔️ Tourist visa copy or Visa on arrival stamp
If you HAVE previously had a UAE visa
✔️ Everything in the Freelance License list (above) PLUS:
✔️ Passport size studio photo, white background (soft copy)
✔️ Health insurance
✔️ Marital status
✔️ Mother’s name
✔️ Religion
✔️ Home country residential address
✔️ Home country telephone number
✔️ UAE residential address
✔️ Previous residence visa copy
✔️ Previous Emirates ID copy
Choose your freelancer package
Basic
$1,999
Inc. government & third party fees & VAT.
See Terms & Conditions.
Business Setup Only.
Ideal for professionals just wanting a license,
without the administrative hassle.
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Review client documents
Prepare & submit DED application
Immigration approval
Trade Name Reservation
Freelance License Issuance
Email Freelance License
Email Commercial Registration Certificate
What's NOT Included:
Company Stamp
Visa
Activities requiring special approvals
Annual renewal fee $999*.
Most
Popular
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Elite
$5,199
Inc. government & third party fees & VAT.
See Terms & Conditions.
Business Setup & Visa.
Perfect for individuals seeking both a license
and a visa solution.
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✅
✅
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Everything in the BASIC Plus:
Registration in Immigration
Issuance of Establishment Card
License holder's Visa Processing
Emirates ID card
Notarized Specimen Signature
Company Stamp
What's NOT Included:
Health Insurance
Activities requiring special approvals
Annual renewal fee $1,899**.
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Explanatory notes to help you choose the package you need
Company stamp needed when signing official documents.
Registration in Immigration & Establishment Card only necessary if the license holder applies for a visa.
Specimen Signature needed for signing documents in certain Abu Dhabi government departments
Health insurance mandatory for all visas. Premiums vary depending upon coverage requirements.
Business activities with special approvals Priced by license setup package to incorporate the special approvals fees, which vary by approving body and by business activity. Check our selection of Freelancer License Setup Packages to see if the one most suitable for you is a standard package or requires special approvals.
Still have questions? We're here to help.
Scan the QR code to Whatsapp our team.
What's included for $1,999?
A ready to operate company!
A soon as your application has been reviewed, approved and your economic license issued, by the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development, you can start freelancing.
Incorporation of Abu Dhabi Freelance License
Gateway Group setup the company on your behalf, through to trade license issue.
Commercial Registration Certificate
Electronic copy will be emailed to you confirming the existence and validity of your company.
Abu Dhabi Government Registration Fees
All government fees for the application and issuance of the trade license.
Economic License
Electronic copy will be emailed to you. Previously, and interchangeably, called 'Trade License'.
Trade Name
The registered name for your new business.
Delving into the Details: Helpful Information You Need To Know
Business Activities
Traditionally, freelance license activities were restricted to professional services, mainly in media, IT and education. However, more activities are becoming available, including a variety of consultancy activities, making this an ideal solution for corporate employees wanting to give up the 9 to 5 life.
There are also a number of arts and crafts activities, making this a cost effective license for creatives, crafters, artisans and individuals specializing in handmade creations.
Business Name
Usually, freelancers work under their own name; however, with the Abu Dhabi freelance license, a trade name is required and it must reflect the business activity listed on the license.
This feature of the license provides two key benefits. Firstly, it enables the license holder to build a brand identity which inspires professionalism, credibility and confidence. Secondly, it provides the ability to open a corporate bank account, which will help organized freelancers by keeping their work and personal transactions separate.
Work From Anywhere
There is no requirement to lease an office or commercial space, which means the license holder not only saves money on a lease they don't require, but they have the flexibility to work from home, their client's premises, a coffee shop, co-working space, or wherever they want, making it ideal for today’s modern professionals who work on-the-go.
Employing Staff
It is not possible to employ staff with Abu Dhabi's freelance licence. Therefore, if the license holder anticipates needing staff, an alternative license-type should be considered.
A work around could be to contract other freelancers, when needed, to support the local freelance community.
Business Bank Account Opening
Given that the Abu Dhabi freelance licence operates under a trade name rather than in the license holder's personal name, means some banks may allow the opening of corporate bank accounts. However, not all banks offer this facility, so it will be necessary for the license holder to check if their preferred bank accommodates this. (Bear in mind, banks regularly update their account features and conditions to be competive, reflect their current appetite for risk and to comply with industry regulations.)
Exit Strategy
This license is ideal if the license holder just wants it to be able to legally practise their skills for a period of time, or whilst they are living in the UAE, and has no intention of building an empire to sell in the future. When the time arrives that they wish to stop providing their services, it is simply a case of cancelling the license. If the intention is to build up a business to sell in the future, this is unlikely to be the most suitable license-type.
UAE Tax Compliance
VAT
All businesses in the UAE need to record their financial transactions and ensure their financial records are up to date.
Mandatory VAT registration - when taxable supplies and imports exceed AED375,000. Voluntary VAT registration - when taxable supplies and imports reach AED187,500. New businesses can register voluntarily if their expenses exceed the voluntary registration threshold.
Corporation Tax
Corporate tax is levied at 9% on taxable income exceeding AED375,000, whilst taxable income below this rate is subject to 0% rate. All businesses are required to register for corporation tax, whether or not their taxable income meets the threshold.
Economic Substance Regulations
The UAE's Economic Substance Regulations (ESR) require UAE mainland and free zone companies, and certain other business forms, that carry out any of the defined 'Relevant Activities' (listed below), to maintain and demonstrate adequate economic presence in the UAE relative to the activities they undertake, and to comply with notification and return filing obligations.
ESR Relevant Activities
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Banking
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Insurance
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Investment Fund Management
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Lease - Finance
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Headquarters
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Shipping
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Holding Company
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Intellectual Property (IP)
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Distribution and Service Centre.
Why use Gateway Group
for your business setup in Abu Dhabi
Experienced
Dedicated Abu Dhabi Business Setup Team who know exactly what they are doing.
Online Setup
We eliminate the need to complete any paperwork with our super easy cloud portal.
Unique Packages
Simply choose the package that aligns with your skills and purchase it online. It's easy!
Trusted Brand
Recommended by law firms, business groups & trade associations.
Strategic Partnership
with Abu Dhabi government
Gateway Group was delighted to be chosen as the preferred partner for business setups by Abu Dhabi Residents Office, part of the Department of Economic Development (DED).
This strategic partnership is committed to attracting Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) into Abu Dhabi and supporting foreign companies entering the market to promote the ease of doing business in the Emirate.
Small Print
* Annual Renewal Fee is based upon current rates, which include third party fees outside of our control, and are therefore subject to change. This fee is provided for information purposes only. When we are made aware of third party fee changes we will update the relevant fees on our website, accordingly. Please check our website closer to the time of your renewal for the current fees at that time. We will send a renewal notification to our clients prior to the license renewal date confirming the exact fees at that time. You are welcome to contact our team to check the renewal fees: Contact Us.
** Annual Renewal Fee for the license and visa package will be for the license and associated fees (first renewal); and will be for the license and the visa (second renewal) due to the license being valid for 12 months and the visa being valid for two years. The Annual Renewal Fee for the license and associated fees is $1,899 (first renewal); and for the license and the visa is $3,099 (second renewal) based upon current rates, which include third party fees outside of our control, and are therefore subject to change. This fee is provided for information purposes only. When we are made aware of third party fee changes we will update the relevant fees on our website, accordingly. Please check our website closer to the time of your renewal for the current fees at that time.
Connect
Address
Hamdan Street
Abu Dhabi
Conrad Hotel, Dubai