Sophia Turner
How to Work Remotely from Dubai
If you’re a freelancer interested in living in Dubai, the city offers a special program to help you achieve your goal. The Work Remotely from Dubai program is tailored for freelancers and remote workers who wish to reside in Dubai. In today’s article, “How to Work Remotely from Dubai”, we’ll cover everything you need to know about this program.
The Special Work Remotely from Dubai Program
This program allows remote workers to live by Dubai’s beaches for up to one year. Whether you’ve always wanted to live in Dubai or are a traveler planning an extended world tour, this program is perfect for you. However, it’s important to note that this initiative does not permit you to work for companies based in Dubai or the UAE. It is exclusively for individuals working remotely for employers or businesses located outside Dubai and the UAE.
Benefits of the Work Remotely from Dubai Program:
- A one-year visa for residency in Dubai
- Access to educational facilities if relocating with dependents
- No need for a sponsor in Dubai
- Ability to sponsor family members, including a spouse and children
- Access to public services and amenities
- Unrestricted travel to Dubai from various countries
- Freedom to travel from Dubai to other global destinations
Before Applying for the Visa | Eligibility Requirements
Before applying for the Work Remotely from Dubai Visa, you’ll need to prepare certain documents, which we’ll outline below. All documents must be on the official letterhead of your employer and signed or stamped by an authorized representative. Additionally, you’ll need to pass a comprehensive medical examination before your residency visa is issued.
Documents Required:
- A passport valid for at least six months
- Bank statements
- Valid health insurance covering the UAE for at least one year (travel insurance with the necessary coverage is acceptable)
- Proof of a minimum monthly income of USD 3,500 (or equivalent in other currencies)
- Proof of employment with a current employer offering at least a one-year contract and confirmation that your role can be performed remotely
Eligibility Conditions
Fortunately, Dubai has announced that individuals of all nationalities are eligible to apply for the Work Remotely from Dubai Visa, provided they meet the requirements outlined in the “Before Applying” section. Before applying, make sure to check official websites to confirm eligibility for your nationality. Some applicants may be required to provide additional documents depending on their country of origin. It’s also important to note that applying for this visa does not guarantee residency approval.
Cost of the Work Remotely from Dubai Visa
The final visa cost depends on three factors: the location of your application, additional services required, and whether supplementary documents are necessary. Below are the costs under different circumstances. Be sure to check official sources for the most up-to-date fees, as they may change.
- Applying from outside Dubai: The base fee as of August 2024 is USD 101 (AED 372.50), including VAT.
Applying within Dubai: Applications submitted in Dubai incur additional costs. The current fee for applications via AMER government service centers is USD 334 (AED 1,225.90), including VAT.
Application Process
The application process varies depending on whether you need to pay for a Visit Visa to enter Dubai. The Visit Visa covers the cost of entering Dubai, but here’s a breakdown of the steps for the Work Remotely from Dubai application:
- Visa on arrival: If you receive a visa upon arrival in Dubai, you can directly apply for the Work Remotely from Dubai residency visa.
- Starting the process abroad: You can begin the visa application process from outside Dubai and complete it upon arrival, or start the entire process after reaching Dubai.
- Applying from outside Dubai: Applications can be submitted through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs Dubai (GDRFAD).
- Applying within Dubai: You can apply online via GDRFAD or through AMER service centers.
Required Documents
Depending on your application method, the required documents for the Work Remotely from Dubai Visa may vary. Some applicants might be asked to submit alternative or additional documents after their initial application. Document requirements can also change without prior notice, so it’s crucial to check the latest updates from GDRFAD or AMER. Below is a list of essential documents that all eligible applicants need to provide, either electronically (JPEG format) or in physical form:
- A passport with at least six months of validity at the time of application
- A passport-sized color photo with a white background
- Proof of employment
- Proof of income
- Bank statements for the last six months
- Proof of remote work capabilities
- Recent payslips
- Health insurance covering the UAE
Note: The above documents apply only to the primary applicant. If you plan to include family members in your application, additional documents will be required.
