Dreaming of tax-free income and living in Dubai, but don’t have a corporate job offer? You don’t need one. In 2026, Dubai has become the global capital for digital nomads, thanks to affordable Freelance Visas and the new Green Visa scheme. Whether you are a graphic designer, IT consultant, or fitness trainer, you can now legally live and work in the UAE without a local sponsor. But with so many Free Zones offering packages, which one is truly the cheapest? In this guide by Tdabeer, we compare the costs to help you save money.
What is a Freelance Visa?
A Freelance Visa is essentially a residency permit that allows you to work as an independent contractor (sole practitioner). It gives you:
- Legal Residency: A 2 or 5-year visa stamped on your passport.
- Emirates ID: Access to banking, healthcare, and rental contracts.
- Family Sponsorship: The ability to sponsor your spouse and children.
Top 3 Cheapest Freelance Visa Packages (2026)
Prices vary depending on the Free Zone. Here is a breakdown of the most popular and budget-friendly options:
| Free Zone Authority | License Cost (Approx.) | Best For… |
|---|---|---|
| GoFreelance (Dubai Media City) | AED 7,500 / year | Media, Education, and Tech professionals. |
| Sharjah Media City (Shams) | AED 5,750 / year | Content creators and influencers looking for the lowest price. |
| RAKEZ (Ras Al Khaimah) | AED 6,100 / year | General freelancers wanting a low-cost, all-inclusive package. |
| Meydan Free Zone (Dubai) | AED 12,500 / year | Those who want a prestigious “Dubai” address on their visa. |
Hidden Costs You Must Know
The advertised “License Cost” is not the final price. To get your residency visa in hand, you must budget for these additional fees:
- Establishment Card: AED 2,000 (Annual).
- Visa Processing Fee: AED 3,500 – 5,000 (Every 2-3 years).
- Medical Test & Emirates ID: AED 850 – 1,500.
- Health Insurance: Mandatory basic coverage starts from AED 700 / year.
Total First-Year Budget: Expect to spend between AED 15,000 to AED 20,000 depending on the zone you choose.
The “Green Visa” Upgrade (5-Year Residency)
If you are a skilled freelancer with a bachelor’s degree and an annual income of at least AED 360,000 ($98,000), you might qualify for the Green Visa. This is a 5-year self-sponsored residency that offers more stability than the standard 2-year freelance visa.
Do I Need a Bank Account?
Yes. As a freelancer, you cannot use a personal savings account for business transactions indefinitely. Banks like Wio and Mashreq NeoBiz offer specialized freelance accounts with zero minimum balance requirements, making it easy to receive payments from international clients.
Steps to Apply
- Apply for Permit: Submit your passport copy, photo, and portfolio/degree to the Free Zone.
- Get Establishment Card: Issued after the permit is approved (takes 5-7 days).
- Visa Application: Apply for the entry permit (if outside UAE) or status change (if inside).
- Medical & ID: Complete the medical test and biometrics for Emirates ID.
Useful Resources for Freelancers
Confused by the Options? Let Us Help.
Don’t overpay for your visa. Tdabeer consultants will compare all Free Zone offers and find the one that fits your budget and profession perfectly.
