Whether it’s during a metro ride in Dubai, waiting in a café in Abu Dhabi, or strolling through Sharjah’s night markets — you’ll see people glued to their phones. But not all of them are scrolling for entertainment. Many are using their screens to make money.

According to a 2024 YouGov survey, the average UAE resident has 2.5 to 3 hours of idle or "disposable time" each day — time spent commuting, waiting in lines, or browsing social media before bed. Increasingly, people are learning to turn those hours into extra income.

In a country rapidly embracing digital transformation and innovation, side hustles are becoming part of everyday life.

1. Content Creation: From Reels to TikTok, Digital Assets via Smartphone

Zara, a 26-year-old nurse from Ajman, spends her evenings filming short videos about her daily life and health tips for TikTok and Instagram Reels. In 2024 alone, she earned over AED 15,000 from brand deals and creator bonuses.

“I used to spend hours just watching other people’s videos. Now I spend that time making my own — and getting paid for it.”

UAE’s digital economy fully supports content creators. Dubai Media City offers studio spaces, and Sharjah has launched creative funding programs for digital youth.

2. Freelancing Online: Upwork, Fiverr & the Rise of Remote Gigs

The freelance economy is thriving in the UAE, especially in writing, design, programming, and translation.

Ahmad, a banker in Abu Dhabi, spends 10 hours a week translating Arabic on Upwork, earning an extra AED 3,000 monthly.

“I just replaced my gaming hours with freelancing. Now my wife’s even happier with me.”

The UAE government backs freelancers through legal permits like the “Freelance License,” making remote work safe, legal, and sustainable.

3. Reselling: The Booming Second-Hand and Micro E-Commerce Scene

With high consumer spending on gadgets, fashion, and home goods, many UAE residents are cashing in on the second-hand market.

Platforms like Dubizzle, Facebook Marketplace, and Maxsold allow residents to declutter and profit. Some take it further, flipping electronics or fashion items for profit.

Huda, a stay-at-home mom in Sharjah, sells gently used baby products from her community and makes about AED 2,000 per month in side income.

4. Online Teaching: Turning Knowledge into Income

Post-pandemic, e-learning has exploded. UAE residents now teach languages, coding, health, finance, and more through Zoom classes or courses on platforms like Udemy and Teachable.

Ankush, an Indian software engineer in Dubai, created a Python crash course and earns over $1,200/month in passive income.

“Instead of watching Netflix, I now record course updates — and get paid.”

5. AI-Powered Productivity: Letting Tools Do the Work

In 2025, AI tools like ChatGPT, Notion AI, and Canva aren’t just for tech experts. More residents are learning how to use them to save time, create faster, and earn smarter.

Rania, living in Dubai Marina, uses ChatGPT to write product descriptions, Canva for Instagram designs, and Notion to manage client work. She spends just 2 hours a day and runs a successful micro-brand online.

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AI-Assisted Content Disclaimer

This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by a human for accuracy and clarity.