This guide is designed for individuals who want to manage their freelance license and visa processes themselves, without involving a third party or PRO service. It is tested and created with existing residency in the UAE, and it is uncertain if the same process would work for those on a tourist visa.
| UID | Unique Identification Number used in the UAE as a personal identification number. It is likely also your visa number and remains consistent regardless of changes in residency status. Once allotted, this UID remains the same whether you are a tourist or become a resident, or during any residency changes. |
|---|---|
| UAE Pass | Digital identity application used to sign in to government and some private services. Most services integrate with this app. Tourists can also sign up for UAE Pass to access a few services. |
| Emirates ID | Identity card issued by the UAE government to all citizens and residents. It includes personal data and biometrics. Once issued, it is connected to the UAE Pass, becoming the primary login service for accessing many services across the UAE, facilitating easy access. |
| ICP | Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security in the UAE. This organization is responsible for managing immigration, citizenship, customs, and port security services across the United Arab Emirates. |
| **AXS/GoFreelance** | AXS is a service platform for administrative functions like visas in Dubai. GoFreelance is part of AXS for freelancers, offering licensing and visa services. |
| Tamm | Government service platform in Abu Dhabi, providing integrated access to multiple services. |
| ADDED | Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development, responsible for economic policies, licensing, and promoting investment in Abu Dhabi. |
| PRO Service | Professional service that helps with the process of obtaining visas and licenses for a significant fee. |
Before starting any procedure, ensure your mobile number is linked to your GDFRA account. To verify:
While remaining on your existing visa, you can apply for a new freelancer establishment on Tamm.
Visit https://www.tamm.abudhabi/en/life-events/business/Start-a-Business/economic-licence/RequestforIssuingEconomicLicenceFreelancerLicence
Log in with your UAE PASS.
Search for and reserve a trade name (~65AED). Ensure your trade name includes your activity name. For example, for an IT license, it should end with "INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY CONSULTANCY".
After reserving the name, fill in the details for the license. For certificates and accreditations, you can upload professional certificates and your college degree. For the Utilitarian Ownership Structure, create a PDF with the following content:
| Name | Ownership Percentage |
|---|---|
| Your Name | 100% |
Enter your details in the Owner, Manager, Authorized Signatory fields. Ensure you include the full address, city, and country, otherwise, the application will be returned.
The entire process will likely take up to a week, including any back-and-forth communication, to issue the license (~1000AED).