FAQs on new Abu Dhabi freelancer licence

  ABU DHABI – For the first time, Abu Dhabi will issue freelancer licences to allow companies to hire freelancers for temporary jobs.

Here’s all you need to know

What is the Abu Dhabi freelancer licence all about?

It will allow individuals to work freelance for companies who want to hire them in any of 48 types of business activities.

How is this different from the previous freelancer licence?

Freelancer licences were previously limited to sectors, like media and finance. Business activities were also limited to free zones where the licences were issued. Now freelancer licence holders can work from home or any authorised location.

Why has the new licence been introduced?

Authorities said the licences will make the job market flexible and help the private sector by keeping employment costs low.

Who can apply for Abu Dhabi freelancer licence?

Emiratis, non-residents, and residents, including housewives, retirees and students can apply for license to do freelance work in 48 types of business activities.

Can people on employment visa also apply for freelancer licence?

Yes. People who are currently employed can also apply for freelancer licence but will need approval from their employers.

Who will issue the Abu Dhabi freelancer licence?

The Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development will issue the new freelancer licence.

Do freelance licence holders need an office space?

Licence holders do not need office space to work. The new licences will allow people to work remotely, from home or from any other authorised location.

Can non-residents use the freelancer licence to apply for residence visa?

Yes. Non-residents who get the freelancer licence can use it to apply for residence visa for themselves and their family.

What are the 48 business activities that freelancer licence holders can work in?

Administrative studies Agricultural guidance Architectural drawings Artworks Banking Calligraphy Clothing Computer hardware and software Decoration Drawing Engraving Event photography Event management Economic feasibility studies Entertainment Energy Fitness Food safety Fine art Fashion design Goods designs Gift packaging Green buildings Gardening and landscaping Handicrafts Heritage Human resources Information technology Jewellery design Logistical consultations Legal consultancy Lifestyle development Marketing operations management Maritime services Marketing studies Marketing services Natural and aesthetic flowers arrangement Photography studio Project design and management services Pest control Parliamentary studies Property Public relations Printing on textiles or clothes Plastering Printing services Photocopying Project development Procurement Standardisation and quality management Statistical consultations Space Soap making Sculpting Translation Technical installations Tourism Videography Web design

How much does the Abu Dhabi freelance licence cost?

The cost of the licence has not yet been revealed. ICA/Expat Media
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