UAE Will Introduce Flexible Freelance Work Permits For ‘All Skill Levels’

The United Arab Emirates is paving its way to a new and flexible work permit for freelance of all skill levels. The new permit will allow freelancers to work within the country or from any part of the world, expected to rolled out by the third quarter of 2023, announced by Abdulrahman Al Awar, Minister of Human Resources and Emiratisation, at the ‘Remote’ forum held in Dubai.

According to Al Awar, both highly skilled and less skilled individuals would be permitted to use the new permission, provided they have registered with the ministry and are operating within the bounds of the law. Without being bound to a certain employer, freelancers can now work for themselves and collaborate with others. This configuration is anticipated to boost worker value and labour market productivity.

Moreover, the minister also affirmed that the government is developing new policies to support flexible and remote work. In April 2022, the UAE announced new visas and residency permits aimed at boosting the country’s economy and attracting skilled workers from all over the world.

Al Awar added that by 2024, up to 24,000 employment might be produced with the implementation of flexible work permits. Businesses will be able to retain and draw different workers with varying skill levels, which will attract a more diversified workforce. The minister expressed hope that this will boost private sector productivity as well.

The flexible work permit system is also expected to benefit employers. Al Awar stated that some employers view it as a more economical option since they won’t have to take risks when deciding to continue with an employee. On the other hand, the employee is not tied to one type of organization.