Abu Dhabi Freelance License

Indicative Year-1 total: AED 6,425

• Base license (includes 6 activities)AED 1,200
• Economic register entryAED 10
• Trade license issuanceAED 10
• Abu Dhabi Chamber of CommerceAED 50
• Sole establishment formationAED 50
• Establishment card (ICA)AED 315
• Regulatory body feesAED 790
• Social contributionsAED 1,500
• Ministry of Economy feesAED 2,500

Indicative only, verify current fees on TAMM (tamm.abudhabi) before applying. Some activities may require additional regulatory approvals and fees.

Professional, consultancy, technology and creative activities for solo practitioners.

Bachelor's degree or specialized diploma, plus typically 3+ years of experience in the activity. An NOC from the current employer is required for residents employed in a similar activity. Open to UAE nationals, residents with valid residency, and non-residents (on a visit visa, who then complete the linked residency process).

Investor visa, or Green Visa for Freelancers

The license holder and their family (spouse, children) can obtain residence via an investor visa, or the Green Visa for Freelancers. Green Visa requires a MOHRE freelance work permit, a bachelor's degree or higher, and a minimum annual income of AED 360,000 over the past two years (or proof of financial solvency).

• Government-issued by ADDED, strong credibility with clients and authorities
• No office required, run the activity from home
• No local sponsor or service agent for foreigners
• Visa path for the holder and family (investor / Green Visa)

• Sole proprietorship, limited employee/labour quota, not for large companies
• Activities confined to the ~100 approved list
• VAT registration required if annual income exceeds AED 375,000
• Best suited to consultancy and professional work, not large-scale trading or manufacturing

• https://www.tamm.abudhabi/en/life-events/business/Start-a-Business/economic-licence/RequestforIssuingEconomicLicenceFreelancerLicence
• https://www.added.gov.ae/en/news-and-highlights/media-announcement/ADDED-includes-30-new-activities-to-Freelancer-Licence
• https://www.added.gov.ae/en/live/long-term-residency/abu-dhabi-green-visa/for-freelancers

• Abu Dhabi freelance license cost breakdown for 2026
• Applying for the freelance license through TAMM, step by step