Becoming a freelancer in Dubai felt like the natural next step for me – a way to finally turn my creative work into something official, structured, and recognised. When I first started, the process seemed overwhelming, but once I went through it myself, I realised it’s actually very doable (and much faster than expected).

If you’re about to start your freelance work in Dubai and you don’t have your permit yet, here’s exactly how it worked for me – step by step, without the confusing jargon.

Why I Chose the Freelance Permit

As a Dubai-based content creator and marketer, most brands require you to have a legal setup – not just to get paid, but to sign contracts, issue invoices, and work long-term.

Getting my freelance permit allowed me to:

• Work legally with UAE companies
• Issue invoices
• Build my personal brand confidently

It became the foundation of everything I’m doing today.

If you’re looking for support with content creation or social media services, explore my work here.

Step 1: Choosing the Right Activity
This is the part many people get confused about.
On my permit, I selected activities that match what I do:

• Content Provider
• Social Media Specialist
• Marketing Specialist

These categories cover UGC creation, social media management, content production, and marketing projects – basically everything I’m doing for clients.

Step 2: Applying Through AXS / GoFreelance
I applied through the AXS platform (linked to Dubai Media City, Dubai Internet City, etc.) because it’s one of the simplest ways to get a freelance permit for content-related professions.

You’ll need:

• Passport copy
• UAE residence visa copy
• Your basic professional details
• Visa status
• Sample of your work
  
  

Once you submit your application, the review usually takes just a few days.

Step 3: Receiving the Approval

After approval, you’ll receive:

• Your Freelance Permit
• Your Freelance Visa option (if you choose to apply)
• Access to your account on the AXS portal

This is when it finally feels real – you’re officially licensed to operate as a freelancer in Dubai.

Step 4: Establishment Card (Optional but Useful)

If you want to hire yourself under your own permit and issue a visa, you’ll need the Establishment Card.
This is also required for some permits or if you want to expand later.

Costs & Timeline

The prices vary slightly depending on the free zone and package, but the general range is:

• Freelance Permit: AED 7,500 per year
• Establishment Card: AED 500–1,000
• Visa (optional): depends on medical + Emirates ID fees

My approval came quickly – within just a few working days.

Things I Wish I Knew Before Applying

A few small details would’ve made my life easier:

1. Always match your real work to the activity code.
   It affects contracts and accounting later.
2. Keep all documents scanned and named properly.
   It speeds everything up.
3. Update your profiles (LinkedIn, website, Instagram)
   to mention that you’re licensed – it increases trust instantly.

---

My Experience in One Sentence

It looked complicated from the outside, but once I started, it was all very straightforward – and honestly one of the best decisions for my career in Dubai.

---

Final Thoughts

If you’re planning to start your freelance journey here, I hope this guide makes it clearer and less stressful. And if you need help understanding the process — especially as a content creator, UGC creator, or social media specialist — feel free to reach out.

Building a creative career in Dubai is exciting, and having the right permit is the first step toward doing it with confidence.