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Can a registered company work with a freelancer who does not have a freelancer permit?

Hello,

Can a registered company work with a freelancer who does not have a freelancer permit?

At the same time, they are employed by another company.

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Hend Humaid Alnuaimi Advocates & Legal Consultants
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21 Mar 2025, 07:11

Hello,

A registered company can technically engage with a freelancer who does not possess a freelancer permit; however, this action carries significant legal risks.

The freelancer’s dual employment status complicates matters further due to potential conflicts of interest and contractual obligations.

It is advisable for both parties (the company and the freelancer) to seek legal counsel before proceeding with such arrangements.

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Rashid Khalil Obaid Advocates and Legal Consultancy
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21 Mar 2025, 07:29

In the UAE, particularly in free zones, freelancing is regulated. Freelancers are generally required to obtain a freelance permit to operate legally.

An individual employed by a company is bound by their employment contract. Some contracts may contain non-compete clauses or restrictions on engaging in other work.

If the freelancer's work conflicts with their primary employment, it could breach their employment contract.

Engaging in undeclared work could have implications for both the freelancer and the company engaging in their services.

If you need further clarification, you may ask us.

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Mohamed Bakheet Advocates & Legal Consultants
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21 Mar 2025, 07:54

In the UAE, working with a freelancer requires the worker to have an independent work permit. This applies to anyone working independently, regardless of their current employment with another company.

If the worker is an employee of another company, they cannot work independently with another company unless they have obtained the necessary legal permit.

Based on UAE labor law, a freelancer requires an independent work permit to work with another company, even if they are a full-time or part-time employee.

Working without the required permit may result in legal penalties for both the worker and the company they work with.

It is important for companies to adhere to the legal procedures related to hiring freelancers to ensure they do not violate UAE labor laws.

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Abdulhamid Yousuf Albulooshi Advocates & Legal Consultants
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21 Mar 2025, 08:44

Greetings,

The situation must be legal, either through residency or a certificate stating that there is no objection from the sponsor regarding their work at your organization.

Best Regards,

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Rashid Khalil Obaid Advocates and Legal Consultancy
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21 Mar 2025, 08:53

Dear questioner,

They should obtain a freelance work permit and an NOC from their current employer. It is mandatory.

If you need further clarification, kindly share your WhatsApp number.

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