Freelancing in the UAE can earn as much as $1,000 (Dh3,600) per day, according to a new report. With businesses increasingly seeking specialized expertise, professionals skilled in cards portfolio management, project management, data analytics, business development, and risk management are in high demand. Day rates start from $300 (Dh1,100).
The 2025 Talent on Demand report, released by independent talent platform Outsized, highlights a 78% surge in freelancer registrations across the MENA region over the past year.
What Are the Highest-Paying Freelance Jobs in the UAE?
Freelance earnings vary significantly based on experience, industry, and project complexity, according to Azeem Zainulbhai, managing director for MENA and India at Outsized.
Here’s a breakdown of daily rates across key roles:
Cards portfolio management: Those with up to five years of experience earn between $275 and $325 per day, while professionals with 11-15 years of experience command $725 to $875 per day.
Project management: Early-career professionals start at $250 per day, while experienced project managers earn $525 to $675 per day.
Data analytics: Daily earnings range between $225 and $750, depending on expertise.
Product management: Beginners typically earn $175 to $225 per day, but those with extensive experience can make up to $600 per day.
Business development: Professionals in this field typically earn $425 to $675 per day.
Moreover, senior professionals with over 15 years of experience often command even higher rates—especially if they bring niche expertise or have worked on complex, high-impact projects.
Why Is Freelancing Growing Rapidly in the UAE?
With a 10% annual growth rate, the UAE’s freelance market is expanding faster than ever. This shift highlights how professionals are increasingly viewing independent work as a sustainable career option. At the same time, companies in the UAE are recognizing the value of flexible, on-demand talent to support their growth and transformation efforts.
However, the report also points to a significant supply-demand gap in the region. As a result, skilled freelancers in the UAE earn higher premiums compared to those in South Asia or South Africa. This talent shortage has led businesses to prioritize independent consultants and project-based hires, allowing for agility without long-term commitments.
How to Get a Freelance Visa in the UAE
For those considering a shift to freelancing, the UAE offers several visa and residency options. In 2022, the country introduced the five-year Green Visa, allowing freelancers and self-employed professionals to work without requiring a sponsor.
Freelancers can apply through various free zones such as Dubai Media City (DMC) and Dubai Internet City (DIC). The cost of obtaining a freelance visa ranges between Dh2,000 to Dh12,000, with approvals typically taking seven to 10 days.
The 2025 Talent on Demand report is based on extensive research and proprietary data from real projects on the Outsized platform.
