The cost of a Dubai freelance setup in 2026 depends on whether you already hold eligible UAE residence. Our Freelancer Membership costs AED 6,500 for the first year, Freelancer Membership - 1 Year costs AED 11,500 and Freelancer Membership - 2 Year costs AED 16,500. Prices exclude VAT.
This guide compares the three memberships, their renewal costs, what they include and the additional expenses to check before joining.
Key Takeaways
- Your total cost depends on whether your membership includes UAE residence sponsorship.
- Freelancer Membership is our lowest-cost membership option for eligible applicants who already hold suitable UAE residence, as well as GCC nationals.
- Freelancer Membership - 1 Year and Freelancer Membership - 2 Year include UAE residence sponsorship, applicable work-authorisation administration, medical insurance and the relevant residence-processing steps.
- Plan for renewal costs, VAT and any optional services that are not included in your membership.
Dubai Freelancer Membership Costs in 2026
The membership you need depends on whether you already hold eligible UAE residence or require UAE residence sponsorship alongside the applicable work-authorisation administration.
Freelancer Membership
Our Freelancer Membership costs AED 6,500 for the first year and AED 5,500 per year to renew. It is intended for eligible applicants who already hold suitable UAE residence, as well as GCC nationals.
The membership includes applicable work-authorisation administration, invoicing support and access to FreelancerHub. It does not include new UAE residence sponsorship.
Freelancer Membership - 1 Year
Our Freelancer Membership - 1 Year costs AED 11,500 for the first year and AED 9,500 per year to renew.
It includes UAE residence sponsorship, applicable work-authorisation administration, medical insurance, invoicing support and access to FreelancerHub.
Freelancer Membership - 2 Year
Our Freelancer Membership - 2 Year costs AED 16,500 for the two-year period.
It includes UAE residence sponsorship, applicable work-authorisation administration, medical insurance, invoicing support and access to FreelancerHub. Confirm the available renewal option and price before the membership period expires.
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Extra and Ongoing Fees to Plan For
Renewal costs
When your membership term ends, you will need to renew your membership and complete any applicable work-authorisation and residence-renewal steps.
Freelancer Membership currently renews annually at AED 5,500.
Freelancer Membership - 1 Year currently renews annually at AED 9,500.
Freelancer Membership - 2 Year is renewed after its two-year term. Confirm the available renewal option and price before expiry.
Renewal prices can change, so check the current rate before your membership expires.
Optional upgrades
Some optional services may involve an additional charge. These can include:
Medical-insurance upgrades
Expedited or VIP medical testing
Other services agreed outside your membership
Ask for the price and scope of an optional service before adding it to your membership.
Allowing for Changes in Fees
Membership prices, government charges, insurance costs and third-party fees can change. Use the current membership price when preparing your budget, allow for possible additional costs and check our latest pricing before joining.
What to Compare Before Choosing a Freelancer Membership
Headline prices do not always cover the same documents, services or period. Before comparing memberships, understand the difference between residence status and work authorisation and check what each option includes:
Whether the membership includes UAE residence sponsorship
The membership term and validity of any applicable work-authorisation and residence documents
Whether medical insurance is included
Whether medical testing and Emirates ID processing are included or coordinated
The first-term and renewal prices
Whether VAT and other charges are excluded
Which professional activities are supported under your applicable work arrangement
Request a written breakdown of the membership inclusions, exclusions and renewal terms before making a payment.
Find the Right Membership for Your Situation
Your eligibility and membership requirements depend on your current residence status and whether you need UAE residence sponsorship.
Speak to our team to confirm which membership fits your situation and receive the current costs and inclusions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about this topic
Disclaimer: This article is intended to provide practical, up-to-date information. Details may vary based on individual circumstances, location, or changes in regulations. The information provided is for informational and educational purposes only.