The new licensing strategy is aimed at stimulating the increase of the quality of delivered services and entering the global competitive market for the creative economy, aiming to double the sector’s contribution to the emirate’s GDP and increase its ability to attract international investments. The Talent Pass initiative is developed by one of Dubai’s Free Zones - the Dubai Airport Free Zone Authority (DAFZA). 

About the Talent Pass

The Talent Pass, as we mentioned earlier, is a Freelance license from DAFZA Free Zone, which allows individuals to obtain a three-years residency in UAE, and work as freelancers within the fields, mentioned as follows: 

• Education
• Marketing and media 
• IT 
• Consultancy
• Art
• Culture

Thus, there are 62 activities overall, including the content provider, choreographer, event planner, fitness trainer, hair stylist, illustrator, fashion designer, interior designer, makeup artist, PR specialist, marketing specialist, photographer, translator, videographer, web designer, and others.

Read also: New types of resident visas in UAE

After obtaining the license that reads the activity, along with a resident visa, the applicant can apply for a family visa that can accommodate a spouse and children, which is a common practice in the UAE. However, identical to other freelance permits, the Talent Pass does not allow hiring and sponsoring employees.

More information about freelance permits is here: Is a Freelance permit a good alternative to opening a Company in the UAE?

We will be happy to help you with the selection of a program and support you on the way to obtaining the UAE residency.

Marsel Shadmanov

Head of Corporate Services at Garant Business Consultancy DMCC

Phone +971 4 421 4335

Email info@garant.ae