Top Earning Apps in the UAE in 2025

The UAE is a leader in technology and innovation, and its digital economy is growing faster than ever. With over 98% smartphone penetration, people here rely on apps for almost everything – from shopping to managing their money and even earning extra income.

If you’ve been wondering how to earn money online in the UAE, earning apps are the answer. These apps have become incredibly popular in 2025 because they make it easy to save, invest, and generate income from anywhere. Whether it’s cashback on your everyday purchases, freelancing opportunities, or smart investment tools, these apps empower users to take control of their financial future.

So, let’s explore the top earning apps in the UAE that are helping residents save more, earn smarter, and reach their goals.

Top 10 Earning Apps in the UAE in 2025

In today’s tech-driven world, earning apps in UAE have made it easier than ever to boost your income and manage finances. From cashback rewards to freelancing platforms, these apps provide countless opportunities to make money online in Dubai.

Let’s explore the top 10 earning apps in the UAE for 2025 and how they can help you achieve financial success.

1. Ibotta

• Availability: Android, iOS

• Rating: 4.6/5 (Google Play), 4.8/5 (App Store)

• Download Size: 170 MB approx.

• Price: Free (with optional in-app purchases)

What Does It Do?

Ibotta is a cashback and rewards app that allows users to earn money by shopping for everyday items. It provides users with cashback offers for in-store and online purchases across various categories like groceries, fashion, electronics, and more. Users can earn money by simply snapping a picture of their receipts or shopping via Ibotta’s partner links.

How It Works:

1. Search for available offers within the app before shopping.

2. Shop at partner stores or online retailers, ensuring your purchases are linked to the offers.

3. Submit receipts or make online purchases through the app to receive cashback rewards.

Popularity in the UAE:

Ibotta has become particularly popular in the UAE due to its extensive partnerships with global retailers. With grocery shopping and online shopping being integral to daily life, many UAE residents rely on Ibotta to save money. It is especially favoured by those looking to cut down on household expenses, making it a useful tool for families.

2. Rocket Money – Bills and Budgets

• Availability: Android, iOS, Web

• Rating: 4.4/5 (Google Play), 4.7/5 (App Store)

• Download Size: 180.6 MB approx.

• Price: Free basic version, premium features starting at $3/month

What Does It Do?

Rocket Money is a budgeting and personal finance app that helps users track spending, cancel unwanted subscriptions, and set up savings goals. The app automatically links with users’ bank accounts and credit cards, providing an easy-to-understand overview of their finances.

Features:

1. Tracks recurring bills and subscriptions to help avoid overspending.

2. Sends reminders and recommendations for managing money better.

3. Provides insights into spending patterns and areas where users can save.

How UAE Residents Use It:

Given the high cost of living in the UAE, many residents use Rocket Money to maintain control over their finances. With its ability to track and manage bills, subscriptions, and savings goals, it’s ideal for those wanting to reduce unnecessary spending. It’s also a great tool for expatriates in the UAE who want to keep track of their money in a foreign currency.

3. Upwork

• Availability: Android, iOS, Web

• Rating: 4.1/5 (Google Play), 4.5/5 (App Store)

• Download Size: 91.2 MB approx.

• Price: Free to use; service fees on earnings (ranging from 5% to 20%)

What Does It Do?

Upwork connects freelancers with clients looking for skilled professionals across various industries, including writing, design, programming, and marketing.

How It Works:

1. Set up a profile showcasing your skills and portfolio.

2. Browse job postings or receive invitations to apply for projects.

3. Submit proposals and negotiate terms with clients.

4. Once hired, complete work and get paid through Upwork’s secure payment system.

Popularity in the UAE:

Freelancers in the UAE use Upwork to find global clients and earn competitive income. Many professionals have transitioned to full-time freelancing through Upwork, making it a key player in the UAE’s gig economy.

4. Rakuten

• Availability: Android, iOS, Web

• Rating: 4.5/5 (Google Play), 4.6/5 (App Store)

• Download Size: 61.5 MB approx.

• Price: Free

What Does It Do?

Rakuten offers cashback on online purchases from thousands of retailers. By shopping through Rakuten or using its browser extension, users can earn rewards and receive payouts via PayPal or check.

How It Works:

1. Create an account on Rakuten and link your payment method.

2. Shop through the Rakuten app or browser extension at participating online stores.

3. Earn cashback on each purchase, which is credited to your Rakuten account.

4. Request payout via PayPal or check once you accumulate enough cashback.

Popularity in the UAE:

Rakuten is widely used in the UAE for its seamless integration with e-commerce platforms and major retail brands. The app’s cashback offers have made it a favourite among savvy shoppers.

5. Fiverr

• Availability: Android, iOS, and Web

• Rating: 4.3/5 (Google Play), 4.7/5 (App Store)

• Download Size: 33.58 MB approx.

• Price: Free to use; Fiverr takes a percentage of transactions

What Does It Do?

Fiverr is a marketplace for freelancers offering services like graphic design, writing, digital marketing, and more. Freelancers create gigs to showcase their skills and attract clients globally.

Most In-Demand Services in the UAE:

Creative fields such as logo design, content writing, and video editing are among the top services sought on Fiverr in the UAE. The app empowers freelancers to earn on their own terms and grow their businesses.

6. Airbnb

• Availability: Android, iOS, Web

• Rating: 4.7/5 (Google Play), 4.8/5 (App Store)

• Download Size: 251.7 MB approx.

• Price: Free

What Does It Do?

Airbnb allows users to rent out their properties—whether it’s a full home, apartment, or just a room—to guests worldwide. Hosts can set their prices, availability, and terms, earning money by providing short-term accommodations. Airbnb handles the payment processing and provides host protection.

How It Works:

1. List your property on Airbnb with photos and a description.

2. Set the price per night and any specific rules.

3. Wait for bookings, communicate with guests, and provide the accommodation.

4. Get paid securely through the Airbnb platform.

Popularity in the UAE:

Airbnb has become a significant contributor to the UAE’s tourism industry, allowing residents to capitalize on the influx of international travellers. In cities like Dubai, where tourism is booming, renting out properties can be a highly profitable venture. The app also promotes unique stays, drawing in tourists seeking local experiences.

7. TaskRabbit

• Availability: Android, iOS, Web

• Rating: 4.4/5 (Google Play), 4.7/5 (App Store)

• Download Size: 77.5 MB approx.

• Price: Free

What Does It Do?

TaskRabbit connects individuals with local service providers (taskers) to help with small household tasks, moving, assembling furniture, home repairs, and more. Taskers list their services and set their hourly rates, earning money based on the tasks they complete.

How It Works:

1. Sign up as a tasker and set your profile and rates.

2. Browse available tasks posted by users in your area.

3. Accept tasks and complete them as per client instructions.

4. Get paid through the app once the task is finished.

How It Benefits UAE Residents:

TaskRabbit is perfect for people looking for flexible, short-term gigs. Whether it’s setting up furniture for a new home or helping with a moving task, TaskRabbit simplifies earning opportunities for those who want to take on small, local projects. It’s especially useful in urban areas like Dubai, where people often need immediate help with household chores.

8. Acorns

• Availability: Android, iOS

• Rating: 4.5/5 (Google Play), 4.6/5 (App Store)

• Download Size: 86.34 MB approx.

• Price: Free to download; fees starting at $1/month for the basic account

What Does It Do?

Acorns is a micro-investing app that helps users invest their spare change by rounding up purchases to the nearest dollar and investing it in a diversified portfolio. It’s a simple way for beginners to start investing without requiring a large initial capital.

How It Works:

1. Link your bank account or credit card to the Acorns app.

2. The app automatically rounds up your purchases and invests the difference.

3. Choose from a variety of investment portfolios based on your risk tolerance.

4. Monitor your investment growth and adjust preferences as needed.

Investment Opportunities for UAE Residents:

With the UAE’s growing investment scene, Acorns provides an easy and low-risk entry point for residents interested in building their investment portfolios. As more people seek financial growth and passive income opportunities, Acorns offers a simple way to start investing with minimal effort.

9. Dosh

• Availability: Android, iOS

• Rating: 4.2/5 (Google Play), 4.5/5 (App Store)

• Download Size: 97.6 MB approx.

• Price: Free

What Does It Do?

Dosh is another cashback app that allows users to earn rewards for making purchases at participating stores and restaurants. Unlike other cashback apps, Dosh automatically gives users cashback with no need to upload receipts or enter coupon codes. Users can link their credit or debit cards to the app, and cashback is automatically credited when they make purchases.

How It Works:

1. Link your credit or debit card to the Dosh app.

2. Shop at participating stores or dine at partner restaurants.

3. Earn automatic cashback with no extra steps required.

4. Transfer your earnings to your bank account or PayPal.

Why It’s Popular in the UAE:

Dosh is gaining popularity in the UAE as it offers effortless cashback for everyday spending. Given the app’s ease of use and its partnerships with major retailers, it is an excellent option for anyone looking to earn passive rewards from routine purchases.

10. Noon Partners Program

• Availability: Online

• Rating: 4.3/5 (Google Play)

• Price: Free

What Does It Do?

The Noon Partners Program is an affiliate marketing program that allows users to earn commissions by promoting products on Noon’s e-commerce platform. Participants share product links on their websites, social media, or blogs, and earn a commission for every sale made through their links.

How It Works:

1. Sign up for the Noon Partners Program and get unique affiliate links for products on Noon.

2. Share the links through your blog, social media, or website.

3. Earn commissions based on sales generated through your affiliate links.

Integration with UAE E-Commerce:

As Noon is one of the leading e-commerce platforms in the UAE, this program presents an opportunity for influencers, bloggers, and marketers to earn money while promoting products to their audience. With the UAE’s strong e-commerce growth, the Noon Partners Program offers a promising way for individuals to generate income passively.

Maximize Your Earnings in 2025

The top earning apps in the UAE for 2025 offer amazing ways to save, earn, and grow your money. Whether it’s cashback from apps like Ibotta and Rakuten, freelancing on Upwork and Fiverr, or making extra income with platforms like Careem and Airbnb, there’s something for everyone. By using these free earning apps in UAE regularly and wisely, you can boost your income and make managing money easier.

Furthermore, if you’re thinking bigger and want to start your own business in Dubai, Shuraa Business Setup is here for you. We’ll handle everything—from company registration to licensing—so you can focus on building your dream. Whether it’s through these apps or your own business, 2025 could be your year for financial growth.

Frequently Asked Questions