The UAE Remote Work Visa, often called the Digital Nomad Visa, is a special one-year residence visa that allows foreign professionals to live in the UAE while working remotely for an overseas employer or running their own business abroad.
It was introduced to attract digital nomads, freelancers, and remote employees who want to enjoy the UAE’s lifestyle while continuing their jobs with companies outside the country.
You may qualify if you can prove that you are employed or self-employed outside the UAE. The main requirements include:
A valid passport with at least 6 months validity.
Proof of employment with a foreign company (employment contract valid for at least 1 year) OR proof of self-employment/business ownership.
Minimum monthly income of USD 3,500 (or equivalent in another currency).
Health insurance covering the UAE.
Unlike a standard work visa, this visa is not tied to a local employer.
Live in the UAE legally while keeping your foreign job or business.
Access to services such as bank accounts, rentals, and telecom services with a UAE residence ID.
No personal income tax in the UAE.
Ability to bring your family members under the same visa.
Work remotely from modern, globally connected cities like Dubai or Abu Dhabi while enjoying a high quality of life.
Sofia, a marketing consultant from Spain, works for a European agency. She applies for the UAE Remote Work Visa and moves to Dubai with her laptop to enjoy city life while keeping her job.
Ahmed, a software developer from Egypt, runs his own small IT business serving clients in Europe. He uses the digital nomad visa to live in Abu Dhabi while continuing his remote contracts.
The Remote Work Visa is valid for 1 year and can be renewed if requirements are still met.
No. This visa is only for working remotely for employers or businesses outside the UAE.
Yes. You can sponsor your spouse and children if you meet the income and housing requirements.
No. It is a temporary visa, but you can renew it. For long-term residency, options like the Golden Visa are available.
No. The UAE has no personal income tax, but you may still need to pay taxes in your home country, depending on its laws.