Freelance work in Abu Dhabi expanded at a pace that outstripped every other licensing category in the opening months of 2026, with permits for independent professionals jumping 261 per cent over the same stretch a year earlier. The figure, released by the Abu Dhabi Registration Authority (ADRA), points to a sharp shift toward flexible and self-directed business models in the emirate.
ADRA, which operates under the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) as the body responsible for developing and regulating the business sector, recorded a 21 per cent year-on-year rise in new economic licences across the first quarter. Professional licences were a standout, climbing 193 per cent, while new commercial licences rose 20 per cent and those covering agriculture, fisheries and livestock activity grew 5 per cent.
Growth was not confined to a single part of the emirate. Al Ain Region posted the steepest increase in new licences at 58 per cent, followed by Al Dhafra Region at 28 per cent and Abu Dhabi at 18 per cent. Across the emirate as a whole, the count of active licences rose 12 per cent compared with the first quarter of 2025.
Smaller-scale and entrepreneur-focused licence types also moved upward. Tajer Abu Dhabi permits gained 17 per cent and “Mobdea” licences rose 15 per cent. On the commercial activity side, advertisements increased 26 per cent and promotional offers edged up 2 per cent.
The industrial sector showed measurable progress as well, with licences moving into the production phase rising 3 per cent and 34 facilities reaching full operational status during the three-month window.
ADDED Undersecretary Hamad Sayah Al Mazrouei tied the results to the emirate’s broader economic positioning. “Amid global and regional challenges and changes, Abu Dhabi continues to demonstrate its ability to transform challenges into opportunities for growth and prosperity,” he said.
He added: “These strong indicators reaffirm the resilience and attractiveness of Abu Dhabi’s economy, as well as the effectiveness of the emirate’s policies and legislative frameworks in establishing solid foundations for an advanced business sector characterised by dynamism, adaptability, and efficient supply chains capable of meeting the needs of citizens and residents.”
