Dubai Remote Working Visa – Live in UAE & Work Remotely
The Dubai Remote Working Visa (also called the Virtual Work Visa) allows foreign professionals to live in Dubai, part of the United Arab Emirates, while working remotely for employers or clients outside the UAE.
This visa is ideal for:
- Digital nomads
- Remote employees
- Freelancers with overseas clients
- Entrepreneurs running international businesses
It provides 1-year renewable residency without requiring a UAE employer sponsor.
Who Is Eligible for the Dubai Remote Work Visa?
To qualify, applicants must meet these main requirements:
1️⃣ Employment Requirement
You must:
- Work for a company registered outside the UAE
OR - Own a company located outside the UAE
OR - Be a freelancer serving non-UAE clients
You cannot work for a UAE employer under this visa.
2️⃣ Minimum Income Requirement
You must earn at least:
USD 3,500 per month (approx. AED 12,800)
Proof required:
- 6 months’ bank statements
- Salary certificate or employment contract
- Proof of business ownership (if self-employed)
3️⃣ Other Key Requirements
- Passport valid for 6+ months
- Health insurance covering UAE
- Clean immigration record
- Completed application
Required Documents Checklist
Prepare the following:
- Passport copy
- Passport-size photo
- Employment contract (minimum 1 year validity recommended)
- 6 months bank statements
- Proof of income (salary slips or invoices)
- Health insurance valid in UAE
If applying from outside the UAE, you will receive an entry permit before completing medical and Emirates ID steps.
Dubai Remote Work Visa Cost (2026 Update)
Costs typically include:
| Item | Approximate Cost |
| Application Fee | AED 200–350 |
| Medical Test | AED 300–700 |
| Emirates ID | AED 370+ |
| Health Insurance | Varies |
| Service Fees | Varies |
Estimated Total: AED 1,500 – 2,500 (excluding insurance)
Costs may vary depending on whether you apply directly or through a consultancy.
How to Apply for Dubai Remote Work Visa
Applications are processed through:
- General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) – for Dubai applicants
- Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICP) – for other Emirates
Step-by-Step Process:
- Submit online application
- Upload required documents
- Pay government fees
- Receive entry permit (if outside UAE)
- Complete medical test in UAE
- Apply for Emirates ID
- Receive residence visa stamp
Processing time: Usually 2–4 weeks.
Can You Sponsor Family on Remote Work Visa?
Yes — subject to income threshold.
You can sponsor:
- Spouse
- Children
Additional documentation and housing proof will be required.
Benefits of Dubai Remote Working Visa
✅ No UAE employer required
✅ Live in tax-efficient jurisdiction
✅ Access UAE banking
✅ Sponsor family
✅ Renewable yearly
Important Things to Know
- You cannot take employment with a UAE company
- Income proof must be consistent for 6 months
- Health insurance is mandatory
- Visa is renewable annually
Remote Work Visa vs Freelance Visa in UAE
Many applicants confuse these two.
| Remote Work Visa | Freelance Visa |
| Work for overseas company | Work for UAE clients |
| No UAE license required | Requires freelance license |
| 1-year renewable | 1–3 year options |
👉 If you want to work with UAE companies, you may consider a freelance permit instead.
Why Choose Dubai for Remote Work?
Dubai offers:
- Zero personal income tax
- High-speed digital infrastructure
- International lifestyle
- Strong business ecosystem
- Safe and stable environment
This makes it one of the world’s top destinations for digital nomads.
