Abu Dhabi Freelance License Activities List 2026 &; Complete DED Approved Activities

The Abu Dhabi Freelance License issued by the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) allows individuals to legally practice professional services in Abu Dhabi as self-employed freelancers; without registering a full company, renting an office, or sponsoring employees. The freelance permit covers 100+ approved professional activities across IT, marketing, consultancy, design, media, gaming, oil and gas, accounting, photography, events, crafts, and more.

This page lists the complete official list of freelance activities approved by Abu Dhabi DED as of January 2026, with Activity IDs, English names, and Arabic names; exactly as published in the official DED Freelance Activities document. GloboPrime Corporate Services handles the complete freelance license application, activity selection, MOHRE work permit, residence visa, and Emirates ID; start to finish.

What Is the Abu Dhabi Freelance License?

The Abu Dhabi Freelance License is a professional permit issued by ADDED that grants individuals the legal right to offer specialized services in Abu Dhabi as a one-person business. It is regulated under Abu Dhabi Executive Council Resolution No. (15) of 2017 and falls under the broader UAE freelance framework administered by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).

Unlike a mainland company license, the freelance permit is issued in the freelancer’s personal name ; meaning the individual is the license holder, the service provider, and the legal contracting party. There is no requirement for a local sponsor, office space, or minimum capital. The freelancer can issue invoices in their own name, sign contracts, open a personal business bank account, and apply for a UAE residence visa.

Key Benefits of the Abu Dhabi Freelance License

• 100+ approved activities across multiple sectors; IT, marketing, design, consultancy, media, gaming, photography, events, accounting, crafts, oil and gas, and more.
• Self-sponsored UAE residence visa; no employer sponsorship required.
• No office requirement; work from home, co-working spaces, or anywhere in the UAE.
• No local sponsor or partner; 100% individual ownership.
• Ability to sponsor family; wife, children, and parents under standard UAE visa rules.
• Personal business bank account; accepted by major UAE banks.
• Dual license eligibility; freelancers can also operate through ADGM, twofour54, or Hub71 for additional reach.
• Eligibility for UAE Green Visa (5 years); for freelancers with degree qualifications and AED 360,000+ annual income.

Complete List of Approved Freelance Activities; Abu Dhabi DED 2026

Below is the full official list of freelance activities approved by Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development, with Activity IDs as published on January 21, 2026. All activities listed below are eligible for the Abu Dhabi Freelance License.

Source: Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED); Freelance Activities List, Print Date: January 21, 2026.

Freelance Activities by Category

To help you choose the right activity for your freelance license, the approved Abu Dhabi DED freelance activities are grouped below by industry sector.

1. Information Technology & Software Development

The largest category for freelancers in Abu Dhabi, covering software developers, IT consultants, network specialists, cyber security experts, blockchain developers, and database designers.

• Information Technology Consultancy (6202003)
• Computer Systems and Software Designing (6201001)
• Information Technology Network Services (6202005)
• Network Websites Designing (6201005)
• Electronic Equipment And Devices Systems And Software Designing (6201003)
• Computer Devices And Equipment Domain Consultancy (6202002)
• Cyber Security Consultancy (6202006)
• Cyber Risk Management Services (6202007)
• Designing The Databases (6201004)
• Network Consultancies (6202009)
• Electronic Chips Designing and Programing (6201002)
• Distributed Ledger Technology Services; Blockchain (6202012)
• Development and Innovation in Computer Systems and Programs (7210125)
• Design and Production of Frame Prototypes (6201006)
• Oil and Natural Gas Fields Production Software Design (6201008)

2. Artificial Intelligence & Innovation

Newly added activities reflecting the UAE’s leadership in AI and innovation under the National AI Strategy 2031.

• Innovation & Artificial Intelligence Research & Consultancies (7020039)
• Artificial Intelligence Developing Services (7220010)

3. Marketing, Advertising & Social Media

For digital marketers, social media managers, advertising consultants, and content strategists.

• Marketing Consultancy And Studies (7320001)
• Marketing Operations Management (7320002)
• Advertising Services Through Websites (7310026)
• Consulting and Advertising Studies (7310017)
• Sports Events Marketing (7310023)
• Marketing Consultancy in the Field of Energy (7320006)
• Social Media Account Management (6201016)
• Blogging Services (7310031)
• Public Relations Consultancy (7020001)
• Media Consultancy and Studies (7020005)

4. E-Commerce & Online Trading

For freelancers selling products or services online through social media platforms or websites.

• E-Commerce Through Social Media (4791019)
• E-Commerce Through Websites (4791018)

5. Business Consultancy & Management

The widest professional category; covering management consultants, project managers, HR consultants, and feasibility study specialists.

• Administrative Consultancy And Studies (7020003)
• Project Management Services (8211015)
• Human Resources Consultancy (7020008)
• Consultancy Project Development (7020020)
• Lifestyle Development Consultancy (7490020)
• Economical Feasibility Consultancy And Studies (7020002)
• Quality, Standardization and Measuring Consultancy (7020006)
• Procurement Consulting (7020023)
• Logistics Consultancy (7020028)
• Heritage Consulting (7020024)
• Spa & Fitness Clubs Consultant (7020019)
• Tourism & Recreation Consultants (7020033)
• Hotel Consultancy (7020004)
• Real Estate Consultancy (6820005)
• Statistical Services Consultancies (7320003)
• Parliamentary Consultancy (7020030)
• Consumer Products Consultancy (7110307)
• Housekeeping Consulting (7490023)
• Cooking Consultant (7020031)
• Music Consultancy (7020016)
• Food Safety Consulting (7020025)
• Plague Resisting Consultancy (7020011)
• Maritime Consultancies Services (7020037)
• Transportation Consultancy (5229011)
• Sports Consultancy And Studies (7020017)
• Waste and Garbage Treatment Consultancy (7020009)
• Space Consultancies (5223007)
• Commodities Designing Consultancy (7110939)
• Gaming Consultancy Services (7020042)
• Fine Arts Consultancy (7020015)
• Consulting Technical Equipment And Technical (7020026)
• Banking Services Consultancy (6619002)
• Onshore And Offshore Oil And Gas Fields And Facilities Services (910018)
• Oil and Gas Consulting (7020003.2)

6. Accounting, Tax & Finance

For chartered accountants, tax advisors, audit specialists, and Islamic finance consultants.

• Accounting Records and Books Keeping Organization (6920003)
• Tax Consultancy (6920002)
• Analyzing of Accountancy and Auditing System (6920004)
• Consulting Audit Legitimate Transactions Of Islamic Financial Institutions (7020021)

7. Design & Creative Services

For graphic designers, fashion designers, jewelry designers, architects, and visual artists.

• Design Services (7410003)
• Fashion And Clothes Designing (7410001)
• Jewelry Design, Jewelry, Precious (7410002)
• Architectural Production and Drawing Technical Consultancy (7110937)
• Geographical Maps Drawing (7110941)
• Calligraphers and Painters (9000906)
• Artwork For Cosmetic Craft; Sculpture (9000901)

8. Photography & Videography

For professional photographers, videographers, and 3D imaging specialists.

• Photography Services (7420003)
• Personal Videotaping (7420004)
• Parties and Occasions Photographing (7420005)
• Photography for Construction Projects (7420012)
• Photography Location Management Services (8211023)
• Production Models By The Three-Dimensional Imaging (7420002)
• Underwater Photography Services (7420013)

9. Events & Exhibitions

For event planners, fashion show organizers, and exhibition coordinators.

• Parties and Events Organizing (9000102)
• Fashion Shows Organization (8230005)
• Organizing Exhibitions of Art Works (8230007)
• Organizing Exhibitions Sports (8230008)

10. Sports & Gaming

A growing sector covering sports services, e-sports, gaming developers, and online community managers.

• Sports Services And Contracting (9311006)
• Sports Brokerage Service (9319004)
• Gaming Development Services (6201014)
• Gaming Quality Assurance Specialized Services (7120039)
• Gaming Community Management (8299025)
• Online Players Support Service Providers (8299024)
• E-sports Data & Analytics Services (6311012)

11. Translation & Language Services

• Translation Publications Services (7490012)
• Simultaneous Translation Services (8299002)

12. Crafts & Handmade Products

For artisans, craft trainers, and traditional product makers.

• Handcrafted Products and Environmental Works (9609006)
• Coordination of Natural and Artificial Flowers (9609016)
• Working Soap Forming (9609019)
• Plastering & Carving Works (4330012)
• Cultural Handicrafts Training (8549018)
• Gift-Wrapping (8292002)

13. Landscaping & Agriculture

• Landscape And Gardening Services (8130002)
• House Horticulture Services (8130005)
• Palm and Trees Trimming (161006)
• Agricultural Extension Services (7490015)

14. Building & Energy Efficiency

• Buildings Energy Efficiency Services (7110208)
• Green Buildings Consultant (7110959)
• Management Services Costs and Risks (7110965)

15. Data & Information Services

• Data Classification & Analysis Services (6311001)
• Data Entering (6311006)
• Commercial Information Services (8299006)
• Information Research Services And The Questionnaire (6399002)

16. Printing & Textiles

• Printing On Textiles And Wearing Apparel (1313002.2)
• Silk Screening (1313002.3)
• Textiles and Wearing Apparel Silk-Screen Printing (1313002)

Most Popular Abu Dhabi Freelance Activities for Expats

Based on the DED approved list, the most commonly chosen activities by expat professionals applying for Abu Dhabi freelance licenses are:

• Information Technology Consultancy (6202003); chosen by IT professionals, system architects, and tech advisors.
• Computer Systems and Software Designing (6201001); developers and engineers building bespoke software.
• Design Services (7410003); graphic designers, UX/UI professionals, and brand consultants.
• Marketing Consultancy And Studies (7320001); marketing strategists and growth consultants.
• Photography Services (7420003) ; commercial and lifestyle photographers.
• Administrative Consultancy And Studies (7020003) ; operations and business management consultants.
• Human Resources Consultancy (7020008) ; HR specialists, talent acquisition professionals, and coaches.
• Social Media Account Management (6201016) ; content creators and community managers.

Abu Dhabi vs Dubai vs Free Zone Freelance License

Freelancers in the UAE can choose between mainland Abu Dhabi (ADDED), mainland Dubai (DED/TECOM), or any of the free zone authorities. The table below highlights the key differences.

Eligibility & Requirements for Abu Dhabi Freelance License

To apply for a freelance license in Abu Dhabi under any of the activities listed above, the applicant must meet the following criteria set by ADDED and MOHRE.

Eligibility Criteria

• Applicant must be 18 years of age or older.
• UAE residents, GCC citizens, and non-residents are all eligible to apply.
• Applicant must hold relevant qualifications, certifications, or experience in the chosen activity.
• Educational certificates must be attested through MOFAIC if issued outside the UAE.
• No criminal record; police clearance may be required for some nationalities.

Documents Required

• Passport copy with minimum 6 months validity
• UAE residence visa copy (if already a resident) or entry stamp
• Emirates ID copy (if applicable)
• Educational certificates; attested through MOFAIC
• Professional CV or portfolio
• Passport-size photograph (white background)
• Proposed activity from the approved list
• NOC from current sponsor (if employed in UAE)

Abu Dhabi Freelance License Cost 2026

The total cost for an Abu Dhabi freelance license depends on the chosen activity, visa requirements, and additional services. Below is the estimated breakdown for 2026.

Estimates based on ADDED and MOHRE published fees as of January 2026. Final cost depends on chosen activity, visa duration, and processing speed.

How to Apply for an Abu Dhabi Freelance License

The application process for an Abu Dhabi freelance license is fully digital through the TAMM platform ; Abu Dhabi’s unified government services portal. GloboPrime handles every step on your behalf.

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Activity Selection; Choose your freelance activity from the approved list above based on your qualifications and experience.
2. Document Preparation; Gather passport, photo, educational certificates (attested), CV, and any required NOC.
3. TAMM Portal Application; Submit the freelance permit application through tamm.abudhabi with all supporting documents.
4. ADDED Approval; ADDED reviews and issues the freelance trade license (typically 3–5 working days).
5. MOHRE Work Permit; Apply for the freelance work permit through MOHRE under the issued license.
6. Visa Application; Apply for self-sponsored UAE residence visa (entry permit, status change, medical, Emirates ID, visa stamping).
7. Bank Account Opening; Open a personal business bank account using your freelance license.

Frequently Asked Questions; Abu Dhabi Freelance License

GloboPrime Abu Dhabi Freelance License Service

GloboPrime Corporate Services is your trusted partner for Abu Dhabi freelance license setup. Our office on Najda Street in Abu Dhabi provides end-to-end freelance license processing; from activity selection to visa stamping, all under one roof.

What We Handle for You

• Activity selection and eligibility check from the 100+ approved list
• Complete document preparation and review
• Educational certificate attestation through MOFAIC
• TAMM portal application and ADDED license issuance
• MOHRE freelance work permit processing
• Self-sponsored UAE residence visa (2-year)
• Medical fitness booking and Emirates ID processing
• Health insurance arrangement
• Bank account opening assistance
• Annual license renewal support
• Family visa sponsorship (wife, children, parents)
• UAE Green Visa (5-year) eligibility assessment

Get your Abu Dhabi freelance license in 7–14 working days. Contact GloboPrime today for a free consultation and quote tailored to your chosen activity.

GloboPrime Corporate Services
Al Khazna Tower, Office 1617, Najda Street, Abu Dhabi
Call: +971 2 634 4789 | WhatsApp: 052 229 8985