Digital Nomad - Spotlight Dubai

Freelance Visa in the UAE

?The UAE has introduced freelance visas (self-employment) for a host of categories to attract talented individuals into the country. Multiple free zones across the UAE offer a wide range of freelance visas to residents and foreigners to work in the UAE. Irrespective of the free zone, people can work across the UAE in their relevant field.

?According to Dubai Development Authority, a freelancer permit costs Dh7,500 – excluding visa cost. Professionals working in various fields related to media can also obtain a freelance visa in Dubai through Dubai Media City. There are around 45 categories that professionals can apply for. In Abu Dhabi, twofour54 offers freelance visas within the media, production, and entertainment industries with a validity of two years. Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone also offers freelance permits to media professionals, starting from Dh6,100.

Getting a Freelance Visa

?GoFreelance simplifies getting a freelance visa through Dubai Media City, Internet City, Design District and Knowledge Park. It offers 1 and 2 year visas starting from AED 4,381. Requirements include a freelance license, establishment card, phone number, insurance, passport and photo. The license permit fee is AED 7,500.

Freelancers also get access to exclusive opportunities to find and bid on projects and expand their network through Marketplace – an online platform introduced to support them.?

https://gofreelance.ae

?Freelancedxb provides cost-efficient visa packages for freelancers in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Their freelancer visa allows taking on temporary, part-time and contract-based projects in the mainland and some free zones.

https://freelancedxb.ae/mainland/freelancer-visa/

Key benefits of obtaining a freelance visa in Dubai:

• Ability to legally reside and work in Dubai as a freelancer/self-employed individual. This provides more stability and options compared to working on a visit or tourist visa.
• Access to a wider range of clients and projects across the UAE. With a freelance visa, you are not restricted to just working within a certain free zone.
• Ability to obtain a trade/professional license and register your freelance business in Dubai. This can help build credibility.
• Option to hire employees and expand your freelance business operations in the future. Freelance visas allow for more growth opportunities.
• Access to bank accounts, phone plans, utility connections etc. These are easier to obtain with a valid residency visa rather than a visit visa.
• Ability to rent apartments and sign longer-term housing contracts rather than staying in hotels. Provides more affordable living options.

Dubai Virtual Work Visa

?Dubai offers a virtual work visa – a one-year visa that allows individuals to live in the UAE and work remotely for companies across the world. The eligibility requirements and application process are detailed, along with the associated costs. Applicants must meet specific criteria and follow a step-by-step process to apply for the virtual work visa

Eligibility includes a 1-year employment contract or proof of business ownership with minimum monthly income of $3,500. The total cost is around $611.

?In5 platform for entrepreneurs and start-ups

In5 is an enabling platform for entrepreneurs and start-ups, offering five key benefits through its robust start-up framework, creative spaces, specialized industry centers, training and mentorship programs, community-wide networking events, and access to investors. It nurtures ideas and businesses to their next phase of growth, providing access to cutting-edge facilities and a dynamic and creative environment.

https://infive.ae

Top Co-Working Spaces

• ?D/Quarters : A unique coworking space in Dubai Media City and Dubai Science Park, providing a collaborative community for independent thinkers and game changers.
• The Bureau : A female-focused co-working space in Dubai’s Gold & Diamond Park, offering various amenities and membership options. The Bureau, Building 6, Gold & Diamond Park, Dubai, UAE, Tel: (0)54 583 3397,
• Nasab by KOA : A luxe members-only community with a work-space and social club for Dubai’s most interesting “thought leaders and game-changers”. Nasab, Koa Canvas, Wadi Al Safa 3, Dubai, from Dhs140 per day.
• Astrolabs : Located in JLT, it offers a community feel with a focus on tech businesses, providing open plan spaces, bookable meeting rooms, and a device lab to test apps. Cluster R, Jumeirah Lakes Towers, daily 24 hours, Dhs750 to Dhs2,500. Tel: (04) 454 1159.
• Letswork : Transforms some of the city’s top venues into affordable pop-up co-working spaces, offering unlimited tea, coffee, water, and WiFi, along with other perks. Letswork, various locations, Dubai. Tel: (04) 245 5354.?
• Cloud Spaces : Located inside Circle Mall, it operates 24/7 and focuses on flexibility and fostering productivity for entrepreneurs, freelancers, SMEs, and international companies.

Cost of Living Dubai

Housing is the largest expense, varying significantly by area. Transport options include metro, bus, taxi and rideshares. Average monthly costs:

• Studio apartment: AED 4,000-6,000
• Room in shared apartment: AED 2,000-4,500
• Metro pass monthly: AED 350 - All Zones

?Housing Sites:

·????? https://www.propertyfinder.ae

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Featured Co-Living Spaces

?Hive JVC

• ?Located in Jumeirah Village Circle
• Offers studio, 1, 2, 3 & 4 bedroom furnished apartments
• Amenities include cafe, lounge, pool, gym, screening room, kitchen, library, laundromat, BBQ area etc.
• Pet friendly
• Prices: Studio AED 6,000/month, 1 Bed AED 7,500/month, 2 Bed AED 10,000/month, 3 Bed AED 14,500/month, 4 Bed AED 18,000/month (all inclusive)
• Flexible tenancy, only 1 month notice required
• Regular community events and networking opportunities
• Dedicated mobile app for residents

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Vonder ?

• Located in famous City Walk area
• Bright and spacious 1, 2 & 3 bedroom apartments
• Fully furnished with modern, stylish decor
• High-speed WiFi and AC included
• Many flats have balconies and walk-in closets
• Surrounded by shops, cafes, Dubai Arena, Green Planet
• Community events and opportunities to connect
• Promo prices: 1 Bed AED 12,847/month, 2 Bed AED 16,938/month, 3 Bed AED 19,833/month
• Part of Vonder's global network of coliving properties

?Both offer convenient, flexible coliving with amenities, community and opportunities to network. Ideal for young professionals, remote workers, and tourists looking for short- or long-term stays.

?In conclusion, the UAE offers various opportunities and resources for digital nomads, including freelance visas, virtual work visas, co-working spaces, and co-living options. These resources cater to the diverse needs of individuals looking to live and work in Dubai.

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