How to get a Meydan Free Zone license: Costs, Benefits, Types, Visa Options, and Business Activities Guide
Meydan Free Zone Overview
Meydan Free Zone is one of the best areas for business in Dubai, and it is close to the airport and central business hubs. With a Dubai Meydan Free Zone License, one can quickly and conveniently begin one’s business. The zone includes more than 1,500 business activities, including trading, professional services, and e-commerce. There is a fully managed online services system, which makes the process completely paperless and very quick.
The zone also offers a variety of office services for new companies and independent contractors. With the various types of licenses, one can customise the services dependent on the location. Select types of licenses at Meydan Free Zone provide a means to save time and resources, and at the same time achieve credibility with clients and partners.
Strategic Location for Expanding Business in Dubai
Meydan Free Zone is also very well placed in Dubai. The Dubai airport and port, as well as the main commercial zones, are conveniently close. This will economically benefit businesses when it comes to the receipt and delivery of goods.
Because of its geographical position, the movement of people and goods can be facilitated easily. Companies being close to important locations can aid their expansion and enable them to work in collaboration with other companies. For these reasons, Meydan Free Zone is an excellent location to establish and expand a business.
Meydan Free Zone License Issuance: Step-by-Step Process
Step 1: Choosing Company Activity
Select from the 2,500+ Meydan Free Zone business activities. You can choose any 3 activities under one Free Zone license.
Step 2: Company Name Reservation
Mention 3 names. Please refrain from using any names that have negative connotations or use religious terminology. Name reservation usually takes no time at all.
Step 3: Collection of Documents
Upload the passport copies, proof of addresses, and provide a brief business plan using our online portal. Setting up a business digitally in Dubai Meydan is a seamless process.
Step 4: Approval and Payment of Fees
Make payment for the fees associated with the Free Zone license. Once this is done, you will receive approval in 1-3 working days.
Step 5: Documentation and License Issuance
You will receive a Meydan Free Zone License in 3-8 working days.
Step 6: Add Visas (Optional)
Apply for Meydan Free Zone visa options for the owner, workers, and family.
Step 7: Open Bank Account
Use the license to open a company bank. Start a business!
Legal Documents Required for Meydan Free Zone License
- Passport copies of all owners/shareholders.
- Visa copies (if you have one).
- Simple business plan (3-year goals).
- CVs of owners/managers.
- Bank statement (6 months).
- 3 company name ideas.
- Proof of address (utility bill).
- NOC from employer (if UAE resident).
How Much Does the License Cost?
- Meydan Free Zone license cost starts at AED 12,500 for license + 3 activities (no visas).
- 1 Visa package: AED 14,500 – includes Meydan Free Zone visa options.
- 3 Visas package: AED 18,500 – good for small teams.
- Meydan Free Zone business license fees vary by activities and visas added.
- Pay in 12-month bank instalments (min AED 1,000 credit card spend).
- Renewal costs the same as the first year: AED 12,500 base.
Special Benefits of Meydan Free Zone License
- Getting a Free Zone License allows you to establish a business quickly and manage all the procedures remotely.
- There is no need for a local partner since you are allowed to have complete ownership of the business.
- Your business can expand, and you are able to save a lot of money since there are no taxes.
- Being in proximity to Dubai International and major commercial districts makes it easier to facilitate your business transactions and operations.
- Meydan has fast internet and modern offices to help your work go smoothly.
- You can pick from many Free Zone license types, like commercial, professional, or e-commerce.
- Flexible office spaces save money, great for startups and freelancers.
- You can get visas for yourself, workers, and family members through the zone.
- You join a big community that can help you grow and meet partners.
- The cost is fair, with packages that fit many business types.
Types of Free Zone License Meydan
- Media & Advertising License
This license is for businesses that do things like advertising, marketing, web design, and printing. If you want to work in creative fields or digital media, this is the license for you. It lets you provide media-related services easily within Meydan Free Zone.
- Service & Consultancy License
This license covers professional services like business consulting, accounting, human resources, real estate advice, and technical services. It is perfect for people who want to offer expert advice or professional help. The Meydan FZ professional license fits this category.
- Commercial & Trading License
This license is for companies that want to trade goods, import and export products, or sell items in retail. It covers general trading activities. But note that Meydan Free Zone does not provide warehouse space for storage or manufacturing. The Meydan FZ commercial license fits businesses focused on trade and retail.
Company Types Allowed (LLC-FZ, Branches)
FZ-LLC (Free Zone Limited Liability Company)
This is the main type for new businesses. One or more owners can start with full control. No minimum money needed. Perfect for startups in Meydan Free Zone company setup.
Branches
Big companies from other places can open a branch here. Good for expanding to Dubai. Uses parent company name.
Startup-Friendly Features & Cost-Effective Visa Packages
Meydan Free Zone loves new businesses. No big money is needed to start. Everything works online for easy Meydan Free Zone company setup. Pick from the Fawri License (60 minutes for freelancers) or Regular License (2,500+ activities). Flexi-desks save office costs. The best license for freelancers in Meydan Free Zone starts cheap.
Packages fit startups:
- Zero Visa: AED 12,500 (license + 3 activities)
- 1 Visa: AED 14,500
- 3 Visas: AED 18,500
- All include Meydan Free Zone 2025 requirements, like digital setup. Pay in bank instalments.
Business Activities Allowed in Meydan Free Zone
Meydan Free Zone lets you do more than 2,500 kinds of business. You can pick up to 3 jobs with one license.
Some big groups are:
- Technology and computers.
- Buying and selling things, import and export.
- Real estate and property work.
- Schools and health services.
- Advertising, media, and marketing.
- Money services like accounting.
- Help services like legal or business advice.
Digital Business Setup in Dubai Meydan
- All company setup paperwork within Meydan Free Zone requires no paper processing.
- With a digital business setup in Dubai Meydan, you can work anywhere, anytime, and any day.
- There is one app for licenses, visas, and payments to ensure quick approval.
- It is cost-efficient as there is no need for office visits or printing.
- Data is safe, and logins are simple.
Office and Warehouse Space Policy
- Meydan Free Zone does not provide any storage or factory space, so there are no warehouses.
- Flexi-desk is a paid requirement and costs between 5,000-15,000 AED/year for a shared desk when getting a Free Zone License.
- No need for a large physical office space, ideal for new businesses and the self-employed.
- Private office space is an option for teams that want more space as they grow.
- Flexi-desk fulfils the 2025 requirements set by the Meydan Free Zone for the license and visas.
Regulatory Approvals & Compliance in Meydan Free Zone
Meydan Free Zone follows UAE laws like AML and UBO for clear, honest business. You must provide key documents for your Free Zone license. Some business types need extra government approvals. Digital tools help keep your business legal and updated. Regular renewals and audits are needed to keep your license valid.
Visa & Immigration Assistance in Meydan Free Zone
- Investor Visa (2 years): For Free Zone License owners/shareholders.
- Employee Visas: Up to 6 visas per company for workers.
- Family Visas: Sponsor spouse + kids under 18.
Corporate Bank Account Requirements for Meydan Free Zone
- You need your Free Zone License, Meydan and company papers to open a bank account.
- Banks ask for your company’s rule book (MOA), board papers, and passports of owners.
- Show your UAE home address and phone number.
- Sometimes, banks want your business plan and personal bank info, too.
Processing time and setup timetable for Meydan Free Zone
- Fawri licenses (freelancers): Ready within 60 minutes, with a Free Zone License issued instantly.
- Standard licenses: Require 3 to 8 working days in total.
- Processing a visa: Takes another 2 to 4 weeks after the licenses are issued.
- Bank accounts become available 1 to 2 weeks after licenses are issued.
Banking and credit card instalment partnerships
- For Bank of Baroda, you get instant accounts, SME loans, and visa support.
- For Ajman Bank, users can access Easy Digital Banking for Free Zone License users.
- For Mbank, users can access corporate accounts in 48 hours with zero fees/balance.
- For credit card payments, you can access 12-month instalment plans for a minimum spend of AED 1,000.
Over 26 banks support setting up a company in the Meydan Free Zone.
Guidelines for Starting a Business in the Meydan Free Zone
- Be Thorough in Your Preparation
To prevent any unnecessary hold-ups, ensure that you have a firm understanding of your future business operations before applying, so you can pick the most fitting business license.
- Submit Names in Advance
In order to prevent unnecessary business name rejections, ensure you have 3 proposed options available when submitting your application.
- Go Virtual
Please use the Meydan Free Zone Integrated Business Online Portal to go through setup easily.
- Follow the Rules
Make sure your business license corresponds to your active business operations, and that you are compliant with UAE regulations, including AML and UBO.
- Get Advice from Experienced Professionals
For a regulated and disciplined procedure, you should engage with your business advisors for the procurement of your business documents, opening a business bank account, and processing visa applications.
- Choose Economy Packages
When applying for a business license, ensure that you provide adequate coverage for your business activities, including any potential risks.
- Be Prepared to Wait
Not all activities are equal; some will require additional documentation, so ensure that your schedule has the necessary flexibility for those.
For more assistance, you can take help from Business setup experts in Dubai. They are licensed business setup consultants in Dubai with over 12+ years of experience helping people in their business setup in Dubai.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I combine multiple business activities under one Free Zone License Meydan?
Yes, you can pick up to three different business activities under a single license at no extra cost. This gives great flexibility if your business works in different sectors.
Q2: Does the Free Zone License Meydan allow for 100% foreign ownership?
Yes, Meydan offers 100% foreign ownership with no need for a local sponsor. You can keep full control of your business while benefiting from Dubai’s business-friendly environment.
Q3: How fast can I get a Meydan Free Zone License?
The “Fawri” license option lets you get your license in as little as 60 minutes for qualifying activities. Regular setup typically takes 3-8 working days.
Q4: Can I sponsor family members and employees with Meydan Free Zone visa options?
Yes, based on your office space, you can sponsor visas for employees and family members. The zone handles visa processing digitally with fast approvals.
Q5: Are there any special tax benefits of Meydan Free Zone?
Meydan follows UAE tax laws, meaning no personal income tax. Corporate tax might be 0% if conditions are met, else 9%. This is great for startups and businesses with qualifying income.
Conclusion
Starting and developing a business setup in Dubai has its challenges, but Meydan Free Zone has some of the easiest digital licensing and business activity setup processes in the city. Most importantly, you’ll have complete ownership of your business without having to partner with a local.
Additionally, the Free Zone has a number of low-cost, flexible Meydan Free Zone office solutions as well as great support for acquiring visas, which all combine to save the business time and money. It truly is a wise choice for Dubai-based freelancers and growing businesses.
Contact our business setup experts in Dubai for a more streamlined licensing process!
