IFZA freelance licence.
An IFZA freelance (professional) licence lets a single individual operate under their own name across consulting, media, tech and creative activities — without the cost of a full corporate structure. Here is the 2026 cost and how it compares to a full IFZA company.
What you actually pay, line by line.
| Item | Amount | Note |
|---|---|---|
| IFZA freelance / professional licence | AED 12,900 (USD 3,510) | Single professional, own name |
| Establishment card (if taking a visa) | AED 2,900 (USD 790) | One-time |
| Investor/freelance visa (per person) | from AED 3,750 (USD 1,020) | Medical, EID, stamping |
| ArxSetup professional fee | from USD 3,500 | Application, KYC, bank introduction |
| Year-1 all-in (with 1 visa) | from USD 10,120 | Same as standard 1-visa package |
| Year-1 all-in (no visa) | from USD 6,050 | Licence + retainer |
Government fees are pass-through and may be revised by the regulator without notice. ArxSetup professional fees are fixed and quoted in writing before engagement. Figures current May 2026.
Reviewed by qualified counsel within ArxSetup and our affiliated practices, Neo Legal (UAE) and Cornwalls (Australia). Figures verified against primary regulator sources. Last reviewed: May 2026. Est. 2021 · DDA Licence 107229 · direct registry filing partner. How we review →
Common questions.
The questions clients ask most before committing. Current to 2026, reviewed by counsel.
How much does an IFZA freelance licence cost?
From AED 12,900 (USD 3,510) for the licence itself (no visa), or from USD 10,120 all-in with one residence visa. The freelance permit is priced the same as a single-activity IFZA company licence but is issued in the individual's own name.
What activities can an IFZA freelance licence cover?
Professional and knowledge-based activities — management consulting, IT and software, marketing and media, design, education and similar — drawn from IFZA's catalogue. Trading and regulated activities require a full company licence.
IFZA freelance licence vs full company — which do I need?
A freelance permit suits a solo professional billing under their own name. A full company suits anyone with co-founders, who wants limited liability, trading activities, multiple visas, or a corporate brand for banking and contracts.
Can I get a residence visa on an IFZA freelance licence?
Yes — the freelance permit supports a residence visa (and family sponsorship once the income threshold is met), the same as a standard IFZA company licence.
Can I open a UAE bank account with an IFZA freelance licence?
Yes, though solo freelance profiles sometimes face more banking due-diligence than a company. Digital banks (Wio, Mashreq Neo Biz) are usually the fastest route; ArxSetup prepares the KYC pack and introduces you.