With the rising usage of smartphones and the internet, freelancing has become not only mainstream but also a preferred career option. Freelancing has made its mark in the world due to the convenience, freedom, and money that comes with it.
After all, Freelancing is the way to go if you are bored with your normal 9-to-5 work, or if you are tired of doing the same process, or if you have a steady job but want to start a lucrative side business on your own time. Whatever option is best for you, there are a few things to think about before taking the plunge. In today's economy, freelancing is the "in" thing to do.
By the end of 2020, the United States expects half of its population to be self-employed. The numbers are more difficult to come by in Dubai, but Nabeesh, the region's largest freelance marketplace, reportedly has a membership of 100,000 freelancers.
Freelancing in Dubai
A freelancer is a self-employed person who provides services. If you have a valid license, Dubai can be one of the best places to freelance. Freelancing in Dubai is a liberating experience. It is, however, complex and sometimes frightening, and it is certainly not a walk in the park. A good start, on the other hand, will make the journey go more smoothly.
Dubai is already a breeding ground for freelancers, with many companies using their services in a variety of industries. The UAE government completely supports your decision to go it alone, and the process of obtaining a legitimate freelancing license has been simplified. Most free zone authorities in the UAE issue freelancer permit licenses, and getting your license from a free zone can be advantageous. You'll need to obtain a trade license from a designated licensing authority once you've decided on an operation that suits your professional background.
DOCUMENTS REQUIRED
Filled application form of freelance license
Copy of your business plan
A copy of your passport
Recommendation letter signed by current/previous employers
Your resume and original qualification certificates
NOC signed the by the sponsor to transfer residence visa to freelance visa and to obtain a freelance permit
Good-standing-certificate by the bank ensuring that you have a satisfactory banking history
Portfolio of your work or any samples of work that prove you could freelance in the stated business activity
Procedure to get a freelance license in Dubai:
Apply for a freelance license and/or a freelance visa with the local free zone authority where you intend to work.
Submit an interim approval application, along with the business plan, a copy of your passport, and a reference letter.
You will receive a customer confirmation letter from the respective free zone authority if the provisional approval is granted.
Sign this letter of confirmation and submit it with the other documents listed above for final approval.
Pay all fees, including the freelance permit charge, employee visa sponsorship fee, and the first installment for leasing or office space (optional), as well as the deposit (if applicable)
Sign the free zone sponsorship agreement and pick up your freelance permit and visa at the same time.
You will be given a ‘Flexi desk' and business facilities within the free zone once you have obtained all of the required certifications and approvals to start a freelance business in the UAE.
Within 7-10 working days, the license is released.
Things to be considered:
You should be aware that you cannot get a license for the same job from both the mainland and offshore jurisdictions while applying for a freelance license.
You must apply to each of the free zone authorities that allow freelancers to work.
If you are on your spouse's visa and are sponsored by your husband or wife, you must obtain a Non-Objection Certificate (NOC) from your sponsor to obtain a freelance license. The same is true if you work full-time in Dubai and are funded by your employer.
Freelancing does not require having a physical office, but free zones do provide Flexi-desk offices for small businesses.
In Dubai, freelancers are not required to send official accounts or undergo an audit.
You may apply for the license on your own, but it is recommended that you seek assistance from business setup services to make the process go more smoothly.
Being your boss sounds appealing, but it requires being self-motivated, laser-focused, and driven by a desire to succeed. Networking is one of the most important aspects of freelancing. Only networking and communication will put you in touch with the right people at the right time to get the job done.
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