Freelancers across the UAE are voicing support for the government’s decision to tighten reviews on self-employment and freelance visas, saying stronger checks will enhance the credibility of the sector. At the same time, many are calling for clearer, unified guidelines to help applicants navigate the updated requirements with confidence.
The UAE’s freelance visa — often referred to as the Green Residency for self-employment — has grown rapidly in popularity, attracting professionals from media, design, technology, consulting, education, and more. With rising demand, authorities have strengthened review and auditing procedures to ensure the system remains fair, legitimate, and free from exploitation.
Freelancers Welcome Oversight, Ask for Clarity
For many professionals, stricter checks feel like a necessary evolution.
Ahmed Salim, a Dubai-based media freelancer, views the changes positively:
“My visa is due for renewal soon, so I’ve been monitoring the situation. I don’t mind stricter checks — it means the system is now meant for genuine freelancers. But we need more transparency so applicants know exactly what’s required.”
His sentiment reflects a wider trend: freelancers are prepared to meet higher standards but want clearer communication on documentation, timelines, and eligibility rules.
Earlier this week, Emirat Al Youm quoted Lieutenant General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General of Dubai’s GDRFA, confirming that the freelance visa remains available. He dismissed rumours of suspension but noted that review procedures have been reinforced to:
Prevent misuse
Protect rights
Maintain system integrity
Regulate a fast-growing market
Why Additional Checks Were Introduced
Visa consultants say the increased scrutiny is a natural response to a rapidly expanding visa category.
Ishaan A., a Dubai-based consultant, explained that while the freelance visa has opened doors for many, some individuals attempted to exploit loopholes — including applying through unverified agencies, using front companies, or submitting inconsistent paperwork.
“When a new visa category becomes popular, oversight has to catch up to ensure consistency and fairness,” he said.
According to Ishaan, all approvals now pass through a stricter verification and auditing process designed to ensure each case is legitimate.
Authorities also reported identifying isolated cases of misuse and even attempted illegal visa trading — prompting the introduction of more robust checks to safeguard the system.
Slower Processes, but a Worthwhile Trade-Off
Some freelancers acknowledge delays but see them as part of a necessary improvement phase.
Rachel (name changed), a freelance writer, described the process as confusing at times:
“Different people tell you different things. One agency says you need a trade licence; another says you don’t. We just need one clear, updated checklist so we can follow the right steps.”
After several weeks of gathering information, she eventually secured her visa through a registered company. She believes the system will only get better as communication improves:
“Everyone understands why the authorities are doing this. Freelancers just need predictable timelines so we can plan our work with confidence.”
Strengthening the System, Not Restricting Opportunities
Officials have clarified that the enhanced measures are not meant to limit access but to:
Support a healthy, credible freelance ecosystem
Prevent fraud and misuse
Ensure applicants meet genuine eligibility
Protect freelancers’ rights and the reputation of the visa category
It’s also important to note that while the freelance visa allows individuals to work independently without an employer sponsor, it does not permit hiring staff or sponsoring dependents — maintaining the visa’s intended scope.
What Freelancers Want Moving Forward
Despite the tougher scrutiny, freelancers remain optimistic about the future of self-employment in the UAE. Their main requests include:
A clear, unified list of required documents
Standardised guidelines across agencies and service centres
Predictable processing timelines
Transparent communication about rule updates
As the UAE continues refining its residency and employment systems, freelancers believe that stronger regulation — paired with better clarity — will make the sector more trusted, stable, and attractive.
