Visa free entry
Citizens of GCC or visa exemption countries do not require any permits to enter the United Arab Emirates. They need to produce their passport or GCC national ID card at the point of entry.
Various visa options are available for freelance individuals looking to do business or provide professional services in the country. The length and nature of your work, along with your personal and professional circumstances, will determine which option is best for you so take your time to consider what you really need.
Freelance, self-employed and contractor visas (pre-arranged)
Green Visa: This is a 5-year visa aimed at attracting skilled professionals. It caters to freelancers and self-employed individuals, allowing them to sponsor themselves without the need for an employer or sponsor. The following conditions apply (as of July 2024):
- a freelance/self-employment permit from Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation
- proof of a bachelor’s degree or a specialised diploma
- evidence of annual income from self-employment for the previous two years amounting to not less than AED 360,000, or proof of financial solvency throughout their stay in the UAE.
Golden Visa: a long-term residence visa granted for foreign nationals working in select professions, real estate investors and entrepreneurs. Typically harder to obtain than the Green Visa as more restrictive conditions apply. See here for details on requirements that apply to your profession or business context.
If you do are not able to meet requirements for either of the above options, consider obtaining UAE work sponsorhip through an Employer of Record company. Reach out to us at support@hyphen.group to verify the suitability of this solution to your context.
Visitor visa on arrival (for occasional short-term visits, including tourism, business meetings and discussions, business events and conferences)
- Available for a vast array of nationalities, either for 30-day or 90-day stay, depending on the passport. Please check this search tool to see if you are eligible for a visa on arrival. Passport validity of 6+ months is required.
- Visa on arrival can be single or multiple entry, and can be obtained multiple times during a calendar year as long as your total stay in the UAE does not exceed 180 days. It cannot be used to render work in an employer-employee type of set-up.
Visitor visas (pre-arranged)
- Must be obtained in advance by anyone not eligible for a visa on arrival.
- Must be obtained in advance for a 5-year multiple entry visitor visa. It cannot be used to render work in an employer-employee type of set-up.
Visit the Government of Dubai website for the latest and comprehensive information on UAE visas.
