Posted inNews

Abu Dhabi introduces new freelance licenses for residents and non-residents

Those who get the license can also get a visa

by Time Out Editors

Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) has announced that UAE citizens, residents and non-resident can apply for freelance licenses in the UAE.

The change aims to create more job opportunities in the UAE and will diversify the business sector in the capital.

With the new license rules, freelancers can practice 48 different types of business in Abu Dhabi.

Previously, the licenses were issued to UAE nationals only.

The Freelancer License will enable businesses to tap into the experience and expertise in the local market and also provide workers with flexibility to work remotely from authorised locations.

In addition, the move can help to boost the income of various groups including retirees, students and stay-at-home parents.

Applicants are not required to take office space and can apply for residency visas for themselves and their family.

To apply, applicants must ‘prove their relevant skillset’ and if the freelance activity is similar to their employment role. Permission from any employer is required before applying for the license.

The Freelancer License covers a wide range of specialities including fashion design, clothing, natural and aesthetic flowers arrangement, photography photography, videography, event management, gift packaging, jewellery design, web design, project design and management services, translation, calligraphy, drawing, statistical consultations, agricultural guidance and marketing operations management.

The license also covers consultation activities in computer hardware and software, real estate, legal consultancy, public relations, standardisation and quality management, pest control, project development, procurement, technical installations, green buildings, information technology, economic feasibility studies, human resources, tourism, heritage, entertainment, administrative studies, food safety, goods designs, fine art, architectural drawings and maritime services.

“The resolution will contribute to enhancing the role of both citizens and non-citizens in boosting Abu Dhabi’s business sector. He noted that this will help stimulate the business and investment environments in the emirate and will create more job opportunities in certain fields that add value to the business sector,” said Rashed Abdulkarim Al Blooshi, Undersecretary of ADDED.

“ADDED’s decision to qualify non-citizens for Freelancer licences will have a positive impact on the services sector in the emirate as the economic activities under this type of licences are mostly technical and service related.

“However, many residents in the UAE, especially those with adequate professional experience in Abu Dhabi’s labour market, have the technical skills to practice these activities.”