Dubai is a global hotspot for business, attracting professionals and entrepreneurs with its exciting free zones. These special areas offer great benefits for setting up a company.
If you’re looking to live and work here, getting the right permit is a big step. We’ll walk you through the main types of Dubai free zone visas available.
This guide breaks down the four primary visa options for 2025. You’ll discover the perks of each, the application requirements, and how you can get your visa sorted out.
Understanding the Main Types of Dubai Free Zone Visas
1. Dubai Investor Visa (Partner Visa)
If you are an entrepreneur planning to start your own company or invest in an existing business, the Dubai Investor Visa is designed for you. This is often called a Partner Visa and is perfect for business owners and shareholders who want to establish a company within a Dubai free zone. It gives you a solid foundation for your business journey in the UAE.
A key benefit is gaining 100% foreign ownership of your company, which gives you complete control over your operations without needing a local partner. This visa also grants you long-term residency status, usually valid for two to three years, and it is renewable as long as your business remains active and compliant.
With this residence permit, you can open corporate bank accounts and actively manage your business from Dubai . For those with larger investments, this visa can also be a pathway toward obtaining the prestigious 10-year Golden Visa.
Another great advantage is the ability to sponsor your family to live with you. You can apply for a Dubai dependent visa for your spouse and children, allowing your family to relocate with you and access the city’s education and healthcare facilities . To qualify for family sponsorship, you must typically demonstrate a minimum monthly income.
2. Free Zone Employee Visa (Employment Visa)
If you are a professional who has been hired by a company operating inside a Dubai free zone, you will need a Free Zone Employee Visa. This is one of the most common visa routes for people moving to Dubai for work. It functions as your official work and residency permit, allowing you to live and work legally in the city.
The great part about this visa is that your employer handles the entire application process for you. The company acts as your sponsor, linking your residence permit directly to your employment contract. They manage the paperwork and submissions, which makes the whole process much simpler for you. Your main job is to provide the required documents, like your passport and an attested educational certificate if needed.
This type of residence visa is generally valid for one to three years, depending on your contract and the specific free zone authority. The main condition is that you must work for the sponsoring company within that designated free zone. This visa also comes with great perks, such as a tax-free salary and access to Dubai’s excellent healthcare and infrastructure.
3. Freelancer Visa Dubai (Freelance Permit)
If you are a creative professional, consultant, or specialist in fields like technology, media, or design, the Freelancer Visa is your ticket to working independently in Dubai. This option, also known as a freelance permit, is designed for sole practitioners who want to operate their own business without being tied to a single employer.
The biggest advantage of this visa is the freedom it offers. You can work with multiple clients and manage your own schedule, giving you great autonomy. Because you sponsor yourself, you have full control over your career path. This visa also provides access to Dubai’s business networks and allows you to legally invoice clients.
This freelance residence permit is typically valid for one to two years and can be renewed. The cost for the permit itself generally ranges from AED 7,500 to AED 15,000. You will also need an establishment card, which costs about AED 2,000. These costs can differ based on which free zone you choose. Some of the most popular free zones for freelancers include Dubai Media City, Dubai Internet City, and Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA).
4. Dubai Dependent Visa (Family Sponsorship)
If you hold a free zone visa as an investor or employee, you can bring your immediate family to live with you in Dubai. The Dependent Visa, often called a family sponsorship visa, is designed for your spouse, children, and in some cases, your parents. This residence permit allows your family to enjoy the lifestyle and opportunities Dubai offers.
To sponsor your family, you must meet certain income requirements. Generally, you need a minimum monthly salary of AED 4,000, or AED 3,000 plus company-provided accommodation. If you plan to sponsor your parents, the salary requirement is higher, and you must also provide proof that you are their sole supporter.
The process begins after your family arrives in the UAE. You have 60 days to apply for their residence permits. The validity of your family’s visas is directly linked to your own visa. When your visa is due for renewal, their visas must be renewed at the same time. This keeps your family’s legal status secure while you live and work in the city.
Other Important UAE Visa Types to Know
Beyond the four main options, the UAE offers other modern UAE visa types that cater to specialized talent and long-term residents. These residency permits open up more pathways for professionals looking to make Dubai their home.
One popular choice is the Green Visa, a 5-year, self-sponsored residence permit. This visa is perfect for skilled professionals who earn a minimum monthly salary of AED 15,000. It’s also available to freelancers who can show an annual income of at least AED 360,000. With this visa, you don’t need a company to sponsor you, offering greater independence.
Another excellent option is the Remote Work Visa. This 1-year permit allows you to live in Dubai while working for a company based in another country. To get this visa, you must provide proof of employment and show that you earn a minimum monthly salary of at least $3,500.
Looking ahead, the UAE continues to diversify its visa landscape. As of 2025, new visa categories are available for professionals in high-growth fields like artificial intelligence (AI) and commercial gaming, making it an exciting destination for tech talent.
Your Partner in Success: How Decisive Zone Can Help?
For entrepreneurs and companies looking to establish a presence in Dubai, figuring out the business setup and visa applications can be tricky. This is where a specialized consultancy can be a great help.
Decisive Zone is a leading business setup and company formation specialist based in Dubai. They offer personalized services to individuals, startups, and established companies looking to set up operations in the UAE.
Their team assists with every part of the process, from advising on the ideal corporate structure and free zone to managing all administrative and technical requirements.
They provide complete support, including getting your license, handling all the visa paperwork for the different types of Dubai free zone visas, and other essential services.
This approach helps make the setup for mainland, free zone, or offshore companies smooth and efficient. By managing the details, they allow you to focus on growing your business right from the start.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the minimum salary to sponsor a family in a Dubai free zone?
The sponsor must have a minimum salary of AED 4,000, or AED 3,000 plus accommodation, to be eligible to apply for a family visa.
Can I work for multiple companies with a freelancer visa?
Yes, a key benefit of the freelancer visa is the flexibility to legally work for multiple clients and projects within your licensed field.
How long does the free zone visa process usually take?
The entire process, from entry permit application to visa stamping, typically takes between 10 to 15 working days, but this can vary.
What are the main types of Dubai free zone visas available?
The primary types include the Investor Visa for business owners, the Employee Visa for staff, the Freelancer Visa for independents, and the Dependent Visa for family members.
Is health insurance mandatory for a Dubai free zone visa?
Yes, obtaining valid health insurance is a mandatory requirement for all individuals applying for a residence visa in Dubai and the UAE.
Final Thoughts
In summary, whether you are an investor, an employee, a freelancer, or bringing your family, there is a specific free zone visa designed for your needs. Each of the four main visa types serves a distinct purpose, from owning a business to working for one.
Setting up in a Dubai free zone offers powerful advantages, including 100% foreign ownership, significant tax exemptions, and the ability to repatriate all your profits without restrictions. Securing the correct residence permit is your first step toward accessing the immense growth and business opportunities waiting for you in Dubai’s vibrant economy.
