Freelancing is becoming a popular career choice in the UAE, offering flexibility and independence that traditional 9-5 jobs often lack. However, while many thrive in this dynamic environment, others find themselves returning to conventional roles for stability.
The Rise of Freelancing in the UAE
High-stress workplaces, stagnant salaries, and rising competition have led many UAE residents to explore freelancing. For recent graduates like Zaid Sami, freelancing provides a platform to build a career and gain valuable experience.
Sami, a graphic designer, juggles a full-time job in Dubai’s JBR and freelance projects. “Freelancing has both positives and negatives,” he says. While it offers creative freedom and better time management, finding clients who value the work can be challenging. “Some startups pay very little, but others might pay generously if they see value in your work.”
Despite the instability, Sami believes freelancing is a rewarding career choice, with some projects earning him more than his regular job.
Freelancing as a Permanent Choice
For some, freelancing is more than a career—it’s a lifestyle. Azeem Ahmed, a freelance videographer, moved to the UAE in 2021 after closing his car business in Pakistan. Ahmed’s first and only 9-5 job lasted three months before he transitioned to freelancing full-time.
“The UAE’s supportive ecosystem for freelancers made the switch seamless,” says Ahmed. The flexibility and growth opportunities he found as a freelancer have solidified his decision to never return to a traditional job. “There’s simply no going back,” he adds.
Returning to the 9-5 Routine
Not everyone finds freelancing to be a sustainable long-term option. Lloyd Areco, a PR and media professional, gave freelancing a shot but quickly realized it wasn’t the right fit.
“Freelancing required immense effort to find clients, manage finances, and sustain expenses,” Areco says. Spending more time on non-billable tasks than actual work made freelancing less appealing. After three weeks, he returned to a full-time role at a communications agency in Dubai.
Areco highlights the advantages of stable employment, such as access to professional resources, training, and a collaborative team. “Freelancing can be great for some, but for me, stability and growth in a 9-5 are far more fulfilling,” he concludes.
Freelancing: A Path for Some, Not All
Freelancing offers freedom and flexibility but comes with challenges, such as financial unpredictability and self-management. While it’s a thriving career path for many in the UAE, it’s not suitable for everyone.
Ultimately, the choice between freelancing and a traditional job depends on individual goals and preferences, with both paths offering unique opportunities for growth and fulfillment.
