Hourly rate of software developers in Dubai

What is the hourly rate of software developers in Dubai? Can we get freelancers only hourly rate to develop custom software applications? Which are the best platforms to hire freelance software developers in Dubai?

I would say the typical hourly compensation varies quite a bit depending on factors like experience, skill set, and employer. On average, software developers in Dubai can expect to earn somewhere around AED 100 to AED 150 per hour. More specifically, reports indicate the hourly rate can range roughly from AED 80 up to AED 300 per hour depending on expertise and role complexity.

In a broader salary context, full-time software engineers in Dubai earn on average between AED 120,000 and AED 420,000 annually, which translates to an approximate hourly equivalent when calculated against typical working hours. Entry-level developers might earn an annual salary in the range of AED 120,000, whereas senior or principal engineers with specialized skills such as AI or cloud computing can earn significantly more.

From my experience evaluating these figures, the tech market in Dubai is competitive and growing, supported by government initiatives and the presence of multinational companies. This growth positively impacts salary ranges and provides opportunities for developers with in-demand skills. Also, the absence of income tax in Dubai makes the net hourly rate especially attractive when compared globally.

In summary, if I were working or negotiating as a software developer in Dubai, I would expect to see hourly rates generally starting around AED 100 per hour with potential to increase significantly based on experience and specialization, making Dubai a financially appealing place for tech professionals

Before I started SpiderWorks, our IT company in Dubai, I worked in the USA as a software developer for several years. For most of my career there, I worked as a software developer cum consultant on an hourly rate for various clients, representing the companies I worked for. During the early years of my career, our company used to charge US$ 50 or per hour but later I worked for a large client and used an e-commerce platform called "BroadVision" and my hourly rate jumped from US$50 to US$ 350 per hour.  

I have found that, in most cases, the hourly rate for software developers varies significantly based on several factors. I will explain them in detail but before I dive into those details, let me share the typical hourly rate for software developers in Dubai based on my past5+ years of experience in the UAE:

Junior Developers (1-2 years experience): AED 50– AED 100 per hour

Mid-level Developers (3-5 years experience): AED 100– AED 200 per hour

Senior Developers (5-10 years experience): AED 150–AED 350 per hour

Software Architects & Specialised Developers (10+ years experience): AED 500 onwards per hour.

Factors Affecting Hourly Rates of Software Developers in Dubai

1. Technology Stack: Developers skilled in AI, Machine Learning, Blockchain, Cybersecurity, or Cloud Architecture charge higher rates.
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3. Industry Demand: Developers with experience in Fintech, Healthcare Tech, and AI-driven businesses demand higher rates compared to other mainstream developers.
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5. Type of Engagement: Freelancers and contractors often charge higher per hour compared to full-time employees.
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7. Company Type: Startups charge lower rates when you hire software developers from them. But if you are hiring developers from well-established or enterprise-level companies, you may end up paying on a higher side. 
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9. Certifications & Experience: Holding certifications in AWS, Azure, Google Cloud, or cybersecurity increases the earning potential of developers.

Hire a Developer on an Hourly Rate

Are you looking to hire software developers at an hourly rate in Dubai? SpiderWorks can help you, source the best software developers, programmers, and QA/testing people at affordable hourly, weekly or monthly rates.