Freelance
ABU DHABI: The Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation (MoHRE) in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has introduced a convenient pathway for self-sponsored freelance foreign professionals to legally work in the country.
By introducing freelance permits, individuals from Pakistan who work as freelancers can now operate independently in the UAE.
This means they can offer their services to individuals and businesses without the requirement of a specific employer or a formal employment contract.
According to the UAE Labor Law outlined in Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021, having a valid work permit is a fundamental requirement for anyone seeking employment in the UAE.
Article 6 of this law explicitly prohibits working in the UAE without a valid work permit issued in accordance with MoHRE’s established procedures.
This development offers exciting prospects for Pakistani freelancers, who can now engage in freelance work in the UAE with legal backing. To qualify for this opportunity, freelancers must possess a valid UAE residence visa.
The freelance permit is issued for a two-year period, granting Pakistani individuals the ability to explore a wide range of freelance opportunities in this vibrant economic center.
The MoHRE offers twelve different types of work permits, each customized to the nature of the job, the employee’s age, and other relevant factors.
These work permits are crucial for businesses registered with MoHRE to hire employees.
The freelance permit, designed especially for self-sponsored foreign professionals, enables them to provide their services and expertise to clients without the need for a sponsoring employer or a formal employment contract.
For Pakistani freelancers looking to seize this new opportunity, a nominal fee of AED 250 is required to obtain a two-year freelance permit.

