Living in Dubai can be expensive, but you can start a side hustle to boost your income. Whether you’re skilled at crafts, love pets, or enjoy selling products, there are plenty of opportunities to make extra money. Here are nine legal and easy ways to earn a side income in the UAE:
1. Sell Handmade Crafts
Are you a creative person? Turn your hobby into income by selling handmade items like jewelry, paintings, or baked goods. Book a stall at ARTE: Artisans of the Emirates, one of the UAE’s biggest handmade markets.
- Where: Times Square Center and Mercato Mall
- Cost: Tables start at AED 300
- Details: arte.ae, info@arte.ae
2. Clear Out Your Closet
Got clothes you don’t wear anymore? Sell your unwanted items and make room for new ones.
- For designer items: Garderobe offers up to 80% commission on sales.
- For other clothing: RETOLD handles the selling process and gives you store credit in return.
3. Join a Flea Market
Turn unused furniture, toys, or clothes into cash at Dubai Flea Market events.
- Locations: Festival Plaza, World Trade Center, Zabeel Park (evenings)
- Cost: Stalls start at AED 295
- Tip: Low prices are common, so selling in bulk can maximize profits.
- Details: dubai-fleamarket.com
4. Rent Out Your Home on Airbnb
If you’re traveling for a while, rent out your home to earn extra cash.
- Requirements:
- Get permission from your landlord if you’re renting.
- Register your property with Dubai Tourism.
- Details: dubaitourism.gov.ae
5. Pet Sitting
Love animals? Pet sitting is a rewarding way to earn money by caring for pets in your community.
- Potential Earnings: Up to AED 7,000 per month
- How to Start: Sign up with Pet Bae to connect with pet owners.
- Details: petbae.com/become-a-sitter
6. Freelance Work
Use your professional skills to freelance in areas like writing, graphic design, or social media.
- Requirement: Apply for a freelance permit to work legally in the UAE.
- Where to Apply: Check out GoFreelance by Dubai Development Authority.
7. Offer Tuition Classes
If you’re skilled in subjects like math, science, or languages, offer private tuition classes.
- Requirement: Get approval from the UAE’s education authority if teaching from home.
- Tip: Advertise on community boards or social media for better reach.
8. Do Promotional Work
Work part-time at events as a host, receptionist, or musician.
- Where to Start: Vibes Events often hires English-speaking residents for promotions.
- Details: Apply online to find roles that suit your schedule.
9. Start an Online Store
Sell products like clothing, accessories, or digital goods through platforms like Shopify or social media.
- Requirement: Register a trade license to run an e-commerce store legally in the UAE.
- Tip: Social media advertising can help you grow your business quickly.
Things to Keep in Mind
Before starting any side hustle in the UAE, make sure you:
- Understand the legal requirements (permits or licenses).
- Follow tax and labor laws.
- Comply with employer restrictions if you’re on a work visa.
With these simple options, you can boost your income while staying within the rules. Ready to start your side hustle? Let the dirhams roll in!
