AI and 3D-model designing added to Abu Dhabi's freelancer licence category

Thirty new roles included in burgeoning freelance sector

Artificial intelligence and computer software design are among the freelance licences available in Abu Dhabi. Pawan Singh / The National

Abu Dhabi has added Artificial Intelligence (AI) development and 3D-model designing to its freelancer licence category.

The move is part of 30 new roles added by the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development in an attempt to boost the emirate's technology infrastructure.

"Electronic and software designing, data classification and analysis services, oil and gas production software design, and online players support providers" are among the latest additions, Abu Dhabi Business Centre announced on Thursday.

It brings the number of roles under the freelancer licence category to 100, with the full list available online.

This expansion allows UAE citizens and residents to pursue a wider range of business opportunities.

The move reflects "our eagerness to expand the range of business activities available to entrepreneurs in Abu Dhabi while responding to freelancers’ aspirations, thus enhancing their effective contribution to cementing a strong, resilient, and diversified economy," said Mohammed Munif Al Mansouri, executive director of the Abu Dhabi Business Centre.

A total of 1,013 freelancer licences were issued in 2023, he added.

To obtain a freelancer licence, applicants must have experience in a specific field or industry or have earned an academic or professional achievement in that field.

The department has previously established regulatory framework, work regulations and general requirements for the freelancer licence.

The licence allows people to pursue self-employment activities without needing a licence from the free zone. They have the right to contract and work with companies in Abu Dhabi as well as the free zones.

Abu Dhabi has been at the forefront of driving artificial intelligence as a key economic driver.

In January, President Sheikh Mohamed announced the creation of an artificial intelligence council.

The Artificial Intelligence and Advanced Technology Council will be responsible for developing and implementing policies and strategies related to research, infrastructure and investments in AI and advanced technology in Abu Dhabi.

There will renewed focus on looking at how AI can help in the fight against climate change, Dr Sultan Al Jaber, Cop28 President, said ahead of Cop29 in Azerbaijan.

AI will also be used by the UAE government to help streamline procedures for its residency visa amnesty campaign in support of people with expired documentation.

The two-month drive will begin next month to allow people with lapsed visas to resolve their status or leave the UAE without fines.

Creating career opportunities

Abu Dhabi first issued freelancer license in 2020, initially covering 48 business activities.

These included fashion design, flower arrangement, legal consultancy, property, human resources and architecture.

Authorities said the licences had been introduced to create a more flexible job market.

The following year, authorities included “computer systems and software designing” as part of the freelancer licence category in an attempt to boost the emirate's technology infrastructure.