Your guide to living and renting in Dubai as a freelancer or remote worker

Imagine starting your day with a stroll along the Marina before logging on for work from a café overlooking the water. Dubai has become one of the world’s top spots for freelancers and remote workers and it’s easy to see why. Year-round sunshine, a thriving economy and world class infrastructure make it an ideal base for digital nomads. Add in flexible visa pathways, ultra-fast internet and a lifestyle that blends business with leisure and you have a city that’s as productive as it is inspiring.

Whether you’re a software developer, consultant, designer or simply someone who can take their work anywhere with Wi-Fi, this guide will walk you through the essentials, like visas,  neighbourhoods, living costs and practical tips for living and renting in Dubai. You can also explore our full range of Dubai Area Guides to get a feel for each community.

Can I live in Dubai if I work remotely?

Yes - provided you have the right visa. Many remote workers live in Dubai while being employed by companies abroad and the UAE government has introduced visa schemes to make this possible. The key is ensuring you enter the country under the correct immigration status and understand the rules attached to it.

The most popular pathways for remote workers include the Remote Work Visa, the Freelance Visa and, in some cases, the Dubai Virtual Company Licence. Each has its own requirements, costs and benefits and your choice will depend on whether you plan to freelance for UAE clients, run your own business or simply continue working for an overseas employer.

For those considering a longer stay or potential residency, you might also want to look into the Golden Visa programme, which offers extended residence for qualifying professionals and investors.

What do I need to live and work in Dubai legally?

To live and work in Dubai as a freelancer or remote worker, you’ll need a valid passport, proof of income or employment, UAE-compliant health insurance and an approved visa. Some visa categories also allow you to sponsor family members if you meet the income requirements.

If you’re wondering, can I live in Dubai? — the answer is yes, as long as you follow the correct legal and immigration processes. And if you’re a UK citizen, the good news is that you can absolutely live and work in Dubai under the right visa scheme.

Visa options for freelancers and remote workers

Remote work visa Dubai

The Remote Work Visa allows foreign nationals to live in Dubai while working for an overseas employer. It’s valid for one year and can be renewed if you continue to meet the requirements. Applicants must show proof of employment with a contract valid for at least a year, a minimum monthly income (currently USD 3,500 or equivalent) and health insurance coverage for the UAE. The cost is approximately AED 1,050, plus medical tests and processing fees.
 

Freelance Visa in Dubai

The Freelance Visa is ideal if you plan to work for yourself and take on clients in the UAE or internationally. It’s available in several free zones, such as Dubai Media City, Dubai Internet City and Dubai Design District. The visa is typically valid for one to two years, depending on the package you choose, with costs starting from around AED 7,500 for a two year visa, excluding establishment card fees. Applicants must meet certain criteria, which usually include proof of qualifications and relevant work experience.
 

Dubai Virtual Company Licence

If you run a digital business and don’t need a physical office, the Dubai Virtual Company Licence could be a good fit. This option allows you to register a business in Dubai and operate remotely, making it popular with consultants, developers and creatives who work exclusively online.

Cost of living in Dubai for remote workers

The benefits of living in Dubai are many, but costs can vary depending on lifestyle and location. Monthly expenses for a single remote worker typically include rent (anywhere from AED 5,000 for a one bedroom in a mid range community to AED 10,000+ in prime areas), utilities, internet, groceries, transport and potentially a co-working membership.

Neighbourhoods like Dubai Marina and Downtown Dubai tend to be more expensive but offer vibrant social scenes and easy access to facilities, while areas such as Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC) or Al Barsha offer more affordable rentals without compromising on amenities.

Renting in Dubai: What freelancers and remote workers need to know

If you’re staying for a year or more, a long term lease registered with Ejari is standard. You’ll usually need to provide a security deposit (5% of annual rent for unfurnished properties, 10% for furnished) and post-dated cheques for the year’s payments. Shorter stays are possible through serviced apartments and holiday rentals, which are more flexible but typically cost more per month.

You can browse our current listings to rent in Dubai or read our guides to short term leasing and explore the difference between short term vs long term rentals to decide which option suits your situation best.

Do freelancers pay tax in Dubai?

One of Dubai’s biggest draws for freelancers and remote workers is the absence of personal income tax or capital gains tax. If you operate locally, you may need to register for VAT (currently 5%) if your business revenue meets the threshold.

However, depending on your home country’s tax laws, you may still have obligations abroad. For example, UK citizens may need to prove they are non-resident for tax purposes to avoid paying income tax in the UK. Consulting a tax adviser who understands cross-border situations is strongly recommended.

Best locations to live in Dubai for freelancers and remote workers

The best location for you will depend on your budget, lifestyle preferences and proximity to co-working spaces or business hubs. Dubai Marina offers waterfront living with a lively atmosphere, Downtown Dubai is ideal if you want to be at the heart of the city and Business Bay provides excellent access to offices and cafes. For a more affordable option, JVC and Al Barsha deliver good value with plenty of amenities. Explore our full Dubai Area Guides to compare communities.

Setting up for success in Dubai

Banking and money transfer

Opening a bank account in the UAE will make managing your finances much easier. Most major banks offer accounts for residents with a valid visa and many have digital platforms for convenient international transfers.
 

Staying connected

Dubai’s internet speeds are among the fastest in the region. Choose from major providers like Etisalat or du or use an eSIM service such as Nomad for flexibility if you travel often. Mobile plans are widely available and can be tailored to your data needs.

Finding remote work

If you’re looking for new projects or clients, platforms like LinkedIn, Indeed and specialised remote work boards are excellent starting points. Networking events and co-working communities in Dubai can also open doors to opportunities.