Freelancing is becoming an increasingly attractive option for professionals who want to work independently in the UAE. Instead of establishing a full company, eligible professionals can obtain a RAKEZ Freelancer Permit and provide approved services as an independent practitioner.
Understanding the RAKEZ freelancer permit requirements is an important first step before applying. RAKEZ currently offers its Freelancer Permit to eligible professionals in areas including media, education, IT, and analytical professions. The permit allows an individual to operate as a sole practitioner under their own birth name rather than a separate company name.
This guide explains the current RAKEZ Freelancer Permit requirements, required documents, eligibility, visa options, application process, limitations, and other important considerations for professionals planning to freelance in the UAE.
What Is a RAKEZ Freelancer Permit?
A RAKEZ Freelancer Permit is an individual-based authorisation for eligible professionals who want to conduct an approved freelance activity independently.
Unlike a conventional company licence, the Freelancer Permit does not create a separate company with shareholders and a company name. The freelancer operates as a sole practitioner and conducts business using their birth name.
RAKEZ currently identifies several professional categories for its Freelancer Permit, including media, education, IT, and analytical professions. The specific profession and activity should be confirmed before submitting an application.
RAKEZ Freelancer Permit Requirements
The required documents are relatively straightforward for eligible applicants.
1. Passport Copy
A clear copy of the applicant’s passport is required when applying for the Freelancer Permit.
The passport should be valid and meet the applicable RAKEZ documentation requirements.
2. UAE Residence Visa Copy
If you are applying for the Freelancer Permit without RAKEZ visa sponsorship, RAKEZ requires a valid UAE Residence Visa copy.
This means applicants who already have UAE residency may have the option to maintain their existing sponsorship, subject to the applicable requirements.
3. Sponsor’s NOC
If you are applying for the Freelancer Permit without a RAKEZ visa, an NOC from your existing sponsor is required.
The NOC confirms that the existing sponsor has no objection to the applicant obtaining the Freelancer Permit.
4. Portfolio or Work Samples
Applicants may need to provide a portfolio or samples of their work.
This can be particularly relevant for professionals working in creative, media, IT, analytical, or other specialised fields.
A portfolio may demonstrate your professional experience and help establish that your proposed activity matches your expertise.
5. Qualification Certificate
Depending on the profession, a qualification certificate may be submitted instead of, or alongside, a portfolio or work samples.
The exact documentation can depend on the selected professional activity.
Who Is Eligible for a RAKEZ Freelancer Permit?
The Freelancer Permit is not intended for every type of freelance profession.
RAKEZ currently lists the following broad professional categories:
- Media professionals
- Education professionals
- IT professionals
- Analysts
The exact list of permitted professions is subject to RAKEZ’s approved activity list. Therefore, applicants should confirm that their specific profession qualifies before starting the application.
RAKEZ Freelancer Permit Activity Requirement
One important condition is that a freelancer can select only one activity per permit.
For example, if a professional wants to operate under an approved IT activity, the selected activity should accurately represent the services they intend to provide.
If you plan to offer several unrelated services, you should check whether a different RAKEZ licence structure would be more suitable.
Do You Need a UAE Residence Visa?
A UAE residence visa is not necessarily required through RAKEZ for every applicant.
For UAE residents, RAKEZ states that taking RAKEZ visa sponsorship is optional. If the applicant chooses to obtain the Freelancer Permit without RAKEZ visa sponsorship, an NOC from the existing sponsor is required.
Eligible Freelancer Permit holders can also be eligible for a UAE Residence Visa through RAKEZ.
Therefore, when planning your setup, determine whether you:
- Already have a UAE residence visa
- Need RAKEZ visa sponsorship
- Need to provide an existing sponsor’s NOC
- Need to budget separately for visa-related expenses
RAKEZ Freelancer Permit Cost
The current RAKEZ Freelancer Permit package starts from AED 6,100. RAKEZ currently offers 1-year and 2-year package options.
The starting package price should not automatically be considered the complete cost for every freelancer.
Your total budget may depend on:
- Permit duration
- Visa requirements
- Medical examination
- Emirates ID
- Additional services
- Workspace arrangements
- Renewal requirements
It is therefore advisable to obtain a current quotation based on your specific requirements before making a final decision.
How to Apply for a RAKEZ Freelancer Permit
The RAKEZ application process is structured into three main stages.
Step 1: Submit Your Documents
Prepare and submit the required documents, including:
- Passport copy
- UAE Residence Visa copy, where applicable
- Sponsor NOC, where required
- Portfolio or work samples
- Qualification certificate, where applicable
Step 2: Make the Payment
After submitting the required documents, complete the applicable payment using an accepted RAKEZ payment method.
Step 3: Receive Your Freelancer Permit
Once the application and required formalities are completed, RAKEZ issues the Freelancer Permit, subject to approval.
Important Conditions of the RAKEZ Freelancer Permit
Before applying, freelancers should understand that the permit has specific limitations.
You Operate Under Your Birth Name
A Freelancer Permit holder conducts business using their birth name rather than a separate company name.
Only One Activity Is Allowed
RAKEZ states that a freelancer can select only one activity per permit.
You Cannot Hire Staff
Freelancer Permit holders are not eligible to appoint staff under the permit.
Additional Visas Are Not Available
The Freelancer Permit does not allow the holder to obtain additional visas under the permit.
Corporate Bank Account Is Not Available
RAKEZ states that Freelancer Permit holders are not eligible to open a corporate bank account.
These conditions make the Freelancer Permit more suitable for individuals who plan to work independently rather than build a larger company.
RAKEZ Freelancer Permit vs Company Licence
A Freelancer Permit and a company licence serve different purposes.
| Feature | Freelancer Permit | Company Licence |
| Structure | Individual / sole practitioner | Company |
| Company name | Birth name | Separate company name |
| Activities | One activity per permit | Depends on licence |
| Employees | Not permitted under permit | Can be available |
| Additional visas | Not available | Subject to requirements |
| Corporate bank account | Not eligible | Can apply |
| Best for | Independent professionals | Growing businesses |
If you simply want to provide your own professional services, a Freelancer Permit may be appropriate.
If you plan to hire employees, add shareholders, operate under a company brand, or expand into multiple activities, a conventional company setup may be more suitable.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Choosing an Ineligible Profession
Not every freelance profession qualifies for the RAKEZ Freelancer Permit. Confirm your profession before preparing the application.
Selecting the Wrong Activity
Because only one activity can be selected, make sure it accurately reflects the services you intend to provide.
Forgetting the Sponsor NOC
If you are applying without RAKEZ visa sponsorship while holding an existing UAE residence visa, you may need an NOC from your current sponsor.
Assuming It Is a Full Company Licence
A Freelancer Permit does not provide the same corporate structure as a conventional company.
Ignoring Banking Requirements
If you need a corporate bank account, a Freelancer Permit may not meet your requirements because RAKEZ does not permit corporate banking under this structure.
Tips for a Smooth RAKEZ Freelancer Permit Application
To make the application process easier:
- Confirm your profession’s eligibility.
- Choose the correct approved activity.
- Prepare a clear passport copy.
- Keep your UAE residence visa copy ready if applicable.
- Obtain the sponsor NOC when required.
- Prepare a professional portfolio or work samples.
- Keep your qualification certificate available.
- Decide whether you need RAKEZ visa sponsorship.
- Understand the one-activity limitation.
- Request a complete cost breakdown before payment.
Who Should Consider a RAKEZ Freelancer Permit?
A RAKEZ Freelancer Permit can be suitable for an eligible professional who:
- Wants to work independently
- Provides services personally
- Does not need employees
- Requires only one approved activity
- Does not need a corporate bank account
- Wants a simple freelance structure
- Wants to establish a professional presence in the UAE
Professionals planning to build a larger business should compare the Freelancer Permit with a full RAKEZ company formation option.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the RAKEZ freelancer permit requirements is essential before starting the application process.
The main requirements include a passport copy, UAE residence visa copy where applicable, sponsor NOC when required, and a portfolio, work samples, or qualification certificate depending on the professional activity. RAKEZ currently offers the Freelancer Permit to eligible professionals across areas including media, education, IT, and analytical professions.
The permit is designed for individuals rather than conventional companies, so applicants should also understand its limitations regarding employees, additional visas, corporate banking, company names, and multiple activities.
Choosing the correct activity and preparing the required documents in advance can help make the RAKEZ Freelancer Permit application smoother and more efficient.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the main RAKEZ Freelancer Permit requirements?
The main requirements include a passport copy, a UAE Residence Visa copy if applying without RAKEZ visa sponsorship, a sponsor NOC where required, and a portfolio, work samples, or qualification certificate. Additional documents may depend on the selected professional activity.
2. Who can apply for a RAKEZ Freelancer Permit?
RAKEZ currently lists media, education, IT, and analytical professionals among the eligible categories. The specific profession must fall within the approved activity list, so applicants should confirm their exact activity before applying.
3. Is an NOC required for a RAKEZ Freelancer Permit?
An NOC from the existing sponsor is required when a UAE resident chooses to obtain the Freelancer Permit without RAKEZ visa sponsorship. The requirement therefore depends on the applicant’s existing visa and sponsorship situation.
4. Can I choose multiple activities under one Freelancer Permit?
No. RAKEZ states that a freelancer can select only one activity per Freelancer Permit. If you need multiple or unrelated activities, you should evaluate whether another licence structure is more appropriate.
5. Can I hire employees with a RAKEZ Freelancer Permit?
No. The Freelancer Permit does not allow the holder to appoint staff under the permit. If your business plan includes hiring employees, a conventional company setup may be more suitable.
6. Can I open a corporate bank account with a RAKEZ Freelancer Permit?
No. RAKEZ states that Freelancer Permit holders are not eligible to open a corporate bank account. Professionals who require corporate banking should consider a company formation option instead.
