10 Simple Ways You Can Legally Make Extra Income on the side in the UAE

10 ways to legally Earn a Extra Income in the UAE

Are you looking to earn some extra income on the side in the UAE, but not sure where to begin? Depending on your interests and skills, there are several straightforward ways to supplement your extra income legally in the country.

However, it’s important to remember that there are rules and regulations to follow when venturing into a side business or job.

For instance, if you’re considering freelancing, you’ll need to obtain the necessary permit to work legally in the UAE.

In this guide, we’ll explore 10 legal ways for UAE residents to earn an extra income, suitable for job hunters or those with full-time jobs, provided they have approval from their employer.

10 Simple ways to make extra income legally in the UAE

Here are Ten even simple ways to make extra income legally in the UAE:

1. Rent out your apartment when you’re on a holiday
2. Sublet your apartment
3. Sell your preloved items at flea markets
4. Be a freelancer
5. Get a part-time job
6. Work while you are still at school
7. Work as a tour guide
8. Promotion Job
9. Make some money online
10. Invest in Saving programs

1.Rent out your apartment when you’re on a holiday

If you’re going on a vacation, you can rent out your apartment to earn some extra income. In Dubai, both homeowners and tenants can list their apartments on vacation rental websites like Airbnb by registering them as ‘holiday homes.’

You’ll need to get a permit from Dubai Economy and Tourism (DET) in Dubai or Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) in Ras Al Khaimah.

Make sure to rent out the entire property, obtain your landlord’s approval, and inform your building’s management and security about your holiday rental.

Additionally, if you’re a tenant in Dubai, you’ll require a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your landlord. To find out how much you could earn, you can use apps like Airbnb.

2. Sublet your apartment

You can sublet your apartment in Dubai, but you need to follow the rules set out in the Dubai Tenancy Law (Law No. 33 of 2008 Amending Law No. 26 of 2007 Regulating the Relationship between Landlords and Tenants in the Emirate of Dubai).

According to Article 18 of this law, the landlord must give the tenant approval for any housing-related procedures, including subletting.

Article 21 states that any changes or renovations to the property must be approved by the landlord and documented in the official lease contract.

So, if you’re thinking about letting a friend stay in your spare room and pay rent, it’s legal as long as you follow these rules and have your Ejari under your name. It’s always a good idea to check with legal experts for specific guidance.

Here are the key points about subletting in Dubai and related regulations:

1. Subletting, or letting someone rent part of your home, is allowed in Dubai, but there are specific rules to follow.
2. Subletting is governed by Dubai’s Tenancy Law No. 33 of 2008. This law regulates the responsibilities of both landlords and tenants, including cases of eviction.
3. According to Article 18 of the law, the landlord must give written approval for housing-related procedures, including subletting. So, you need your landlord’s permission to sublet.
4. Article 21 of the law states that any changes or renovations to the property must be approved by the landlord and documented in the lease contract.
5. Subletting without the landlord’s written approval can lead to eviction. In such cases, the subtenant’s rights for compensation are reserved and must be fulfilled by the tenant.
6. At the end of your lease period, you must return the property in the same condition it was when you signed the lease contract.
7. In Dubai, homeowners and tenants can also list their apartments as ‘holiday homes’ on vacation rental websites like Airbnb, allowing short-term rentals.

Remember to always seek written approval from your landlord and follow these rules to ensure a legal and trouble-free subletting experience in Dubai.

3. Sell your preloved items at flea markets

In Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and other places in the UAE, you can find flea markets where you can sell things you no longer need. These markets are held at popular locations and are a great way to sell items like household stuff, appliances, small furniture, clothes, and more. You can book a stall to sell these items.

Additionally, in the UAE, there are special stores where you can sell designer items and earn a commission on the sales. It’s another way to make extra income from things you no longer use.

4. Be a freelancer

Do you have a particular skill you can put to use during your free time? Consider freelancing in the UAE. You can get a freelance permit for as little as Dh530 per year.

The skills most in demand for freelancing in the UAE include content writing, data entry, graphic design, logo design, translations, and video editing.

To get started, simply apply for your freelance license through the economic department in your emirate or a suitable free zone that matches your expertise. Then, you can start searching for freelance jobs that align with your schedule.

Here are the key points you need to know:

1. To work as a freelancer in the UAE, you’ll need a freelance permit. It’s like your work license, and it allows you to legally work in the country. The cost for this permit starts at around Dh530 per year.
2. Popular freelance skills in the UAE include content writing, data entry, logo design, graphic design, translations, and video editing. If you have expertise in any of these areas, freelancing can be a great option.
3. You can apply for a freelance permit with the economic department in your emirate or a free zone that matches your skills. Once you have it, you’re all set to start looking for freelance jobs.
4. A freelance permit is not the same as a visa. You can have a different type of visa, like a family or employment visa, and still get a freelance permit. It allows you to freelance on the side.
5. There are some limitations to consider. For instance, if you have a free zone work permit, you can’t work with mainland companies unless you provide digital services. You can’t work for individuals either; it’s only for corporate clients.
6. Keep in mind that the freelance permit cost doesn’t include visa, Emirates ID, and health insurance expenses. These are additional costs you’ll need to cover.
7. It’s a good idea to have a business plan in place, especially if required by the free zone you choose. This plan should outline your contracts and show why you’re eligible for the freelance permit.
8. Freelancing is perfect for professionals in industries like media, technology, and education who want flexibility and don’t want to commit to a full-time job.
9. Different authorities offer freelance permits in the UAE. Here are a few options:
   • Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development: Dh530, two-year validity
   • gofreelance.ae: Dh7,500, one-year validity
   • Abu Dhabi’s twofour54: Starting from Dh4,500, one-year validity
   • Ras Al Khaimah Free Zone (RAKEZ): Dh6,100, one-year validity
   • Ajman Free zone: Dh6,000, one-year validity
   • Fujairah Creative City: Dh11,000, two-year validity

So, if you’re looking for flexibility and have specialized skills, freelancing in the UAE could be a great way to work on your own terms and earn some extra income.

5. Get a part-time job

You can work part-time in the UAE without needing approval from your main employer. Part-time work permits are easy to obtain through the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).

You can work part-time for up to 20 hours a week. This type of work is suitable for various jobs.

To get a part-time permit:

1. Ensure you have a valid passport and residency.
2. Be above 18 years old.
3. Fall under Skill level 1, 2, or 3 jobs as defined by the Ministry.
4. The employer must obtain a work permit from the Ministry.

The cost for a part-time work permit includes a Dh100 application fee and a Dh500 approval fee. The permit is available to all nationalities.

It’s important to note that your part-time work should align with your education, profession, and the company’s scope of activity. The Ministry reviews applications to ensure there’s no competition or conflict of interest with your full-time job.

Working part-time without the proper permit is illegal and can result in fines for both you and the hiring company.

6. Work while you are still at school

Young students in the UAE can work if they have a work permit. If you’re 15 years old or older, you can apply for a juvenile work permit from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE). This allows you to gain work experience and earn money while still in school.

Requirements for a Juvenile Work Permit:

• Written consent from a parent or legal guardian.
• Birth certificate or a certificate estimating the minor’s age issued by medical authorities.
• Physical fitness certificate for the requested work from medical authorities.
• Valid residence visa for expatriate minors and their parents.
• The minor cannot be recruited for prohibited work under UAE law.
• The employer must have a valid work license.
• Payment of work permit fees.

Additional conditions:

• Minors cannot work at night in industrial enterprises or in hazardous jobs.
• Working hours should not exceed six hours per day, with breaks totaling one hour.
• Overtime and holiday work are prohibited.

The UAE follows international human rights treaties regarding child labor. Students aged 15 to 18 can work temporarily with work permits and are allowed to work on projects for up to six months.

For students aged 12 to 18 who want training, training permits are available, and written consent from a guardian or custodian is required.

You can find the ‘Juvenile and training work permit’ form on the MOHRE website and app, as well as at Tas’heel service centers.

7. Work as a tour guide

If you enjoy showing people around Dubai and want to turn it into a paid job, you can apply for a tour guide license in Dubai through the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET).

This license not only allows you to get paid for your services but also provides training to become a professional tour guide.

8. Promotion jobs

Promotion jobs are when companies want to tell people about their products. They often happen in places like malls, stores, or events. These jobs are good for students and people with dependent visas because the companies give you a short-term work permit.

In these jobs, you might hand out flyers, explain products to customers, or give out samples. If it’s at an event, you could do things like help people find their seats, serve food, or host the event.

The pay can range from Dh3,000 to Dh15,000 per month, depending on how much you work and where you work.

You can find promotion job opportunities on social media, especially on Facebook groups and WhatsApp.

9. Make Some Money Online

There are several ways to earn money online, and one popular option is freelancing on platforms like Fiverr. You can offer services like translation, writing, and many others. In some cases, you might need a freelancing permit.

If you’re into competitive gaming, you can live stream your games on platforms like Twitch and join affiliate marketing programs to earn some income.

Professionals like teachers, medical experts, or legal professionals can use e-learning platforms to provide paid services to people from different parts of the world.

Always remember to use trusted online payment methods for safe transactions.

10. Invest in a Savings Program

If you can’t spare the time for a side job, consider saving as little as Dh1,000 each month. There’s a Second Salary -New savings program in the UAE that allows you to earn a second income by consistently saving Dh1,000 or more per month for a period of three to ten years. You can choose the duration, but it must be at least three years.

Once the savings period ends, you’ll start receiving a monthly payment equal to your initial savings amount plus the accumulated profit. For example, if you save Dh5,000 per month for ten years, you can expect to receive Dh7,500 per month for the next decade.

Similarly, if you save Dh5,000 per month for five years and decide to redeem your savings within the next three years, you could receive Dh10,020 per month for three years.

This savings program offers a unique way to boost your income without additional work. By consistently saving each month, you can enjoy the benefits of a second salary when the savings period concludes. Whether you opt for a shorter or longer savings duration, this program provides a reliable and rewarding path to secure your financial future.

There are various opportunities in the UAE to supplement your income, whether you’re a student, a working professional, or someone looking to make the most of your spare time.

From part-time jobs and freelancing to exploring online income avenues and investing in savings programs, the UAE offers a range of options to help you achieve your financial goals and secure your financial future.

With determination and the right approach, you can find the perfect way to boost your income and enjoy the benefits of additional financial stability.

Frequently Asked Questions FAQs on Legally Earning Extra Income In Dubai