If you’re an entrepreneur looking to start a business in Dubai, Meydan Free Zone is one of the smartest choices you can make, especially for Indian business owners. Launched in 2009 and located near Downtown Dubai, Dubai International Airport, and key shipping ports, Meydan offers a prime location right in the centre of the city.
What makes it stand out is its fast and fully digital business setup process; Meydan freezone company setup can be done in just 60 minutes. You also get 100% foreign ownership, 0% personal and corporate tax (as long as they meet the specific conditions), and the freedom to repatriate all your profits.
With paperless services, instant IBAN creation through Meydan Pay, and the ability to manage everything online, it’s the perfect setup solution for today’s modern, remote-friendly businesses.
What is Meydan Free Zone?
Meydan Free Zone is a modern business hub in the heart of Dubai, launched in 2009. It offers a fast, fully digital company setup process, often completed in just 60 minutes (Fawri). With no need for a physical office and full foreign ownership, it’s a flexible and convenient choice for startups and entrepreneurs. Meydan Free Zone is ideally located close to some of Dubai’s most important business and lifestyle districts. It’s just minutes away from:- Downtown Dubai
- Business Bay
- Sheikh Zayed Road
- Dubai International Airport
Who Is It Ideal For?
Meydan Free Zone is perfect for:- Startups looking for a cost-effective and easy entry into the Dubai market
- Indian entrepreneurs wanting 100% ownership and quick setup
- Digital businesses and freelancers who work remotely
- Consultants, e-commerce sellers, and media professionals
- Businesses wanting to operate from a prestigious address without high office costs
Meydan Free Zone Business Activity List
Meydan Free Zone offers one of the most diverse lists of business activities in Dubai. You can even combine up to 3 different activities (even from different sectors) under a single license. Here are some of the main categories:- Management consultancy
- Marketing and advertising consultancy
- IT consultancy
- Education and training services
- Online retailing
- E-marketplace platform operation
- Online food delivery services
- Dropshipping businesses
- Content creation
- Social media management
- PR and communications
- Photography and videography services
- Web design and branding
- Software development
- Blockchain technology services
- Cybersecurity consulting
- Data analytics
- General trading
- Import/export
- Product-specific trading (e.g., electronics, garments, food items)
- Wholesale and distribution
- Bookkeeping and accounting
- Tax consultancy
- Financial advisory
- Real estate consultancy
- Life coaching
- Health and nutrition consultancy
Key Features of Meydan Free Zone
Meydan Free Zone offers a range of features that make it an attractive choice for entrepreneurs and startups:- 100% Foreign Ownership: No need for a local sponsor or partner.
- Fast & Paperless Setup: Get your trade license in as little as 60 minutes through a fully online process.
- No Office Requirement: Run your business remotely without renting physical space.
- 0% Corporate and Personal Income Tax: Keep more of your profits.
- Wide Range of Business Activities: Choose from over 1,500 licensed activities, including trading, consultancy, media, and e-commerce.
- Digital Business Address: Prestigious Dubai address included without the high costs.
- Meydan Pay: Instant IBAN account to start banking right after setup.
- Visa Services: Easy access to investor and employee visas.
- Strategic Location: Close to Downtown Dubai, Business Bay, and major transport links.
Types of Business Licenses Available in Meydan Free Zone
Meydan Free Zone offers a variety of business licenses to suit different types of entrepreneurs and industries. Here are the main options:1. Commercial/Trading License
This license is ideal for businesses involved in buying, selling, importing, or exporting goods. It covers general trading, retail, and wholesale activities.2. Consultancy/Professional License
Perfect for professionals offering expert advice in areas like management, finance, HR, education, marketing, and more. Great for consultants, coaches, and advisors.3. E-commerce License
Ideal for online businesses selling products or services via digital platforms. Whether you're into dropshipping, digital goods, or running a full online store, this license fits.4. Freelance License
Best suited for solo professionals or remote workers who want to legally offer services in their name without forming a full company.5. Media License
Designed for businesses in the creative and digital space, like content creators, marketing agencies, film production, and graphic design firms.Documents Required for Company Setup in Meydan Free Zone
Meydan Free Zone company setup is simple, but you’ll need to submit a few key documents to get started.- Passport copies of all shareholders (valid and clear)
- UAE entry stamp or visit visa copy (if currently in the UAE)
- Residence visa & Emirates ID (if applicable)
- Passport-size photo
- Certificate of incorporation & trade license
- Memorandum and Articles of Association (MoA/AoA)
- Proof of company address
- Bank reference letter
What is the Process of Company Formation in Meydan Free Zone
Business setup in Meydan Free Zone is quick and hassle-free. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:1. Define Your Business Activity & Structure
Decide your main business activity and choose the appropriate legal structure, FZ‑LLC (1+ shareholders), FZE, or a branch of an existing company.2. Reserve Company Name
Pick a unique, compliant trade name and get it approved by the Meydan Free Zone Authority.3. Apply for Initial Approval & Submit Documents
Submit your application and documents online: passports, proof of address, business plan, and any other required documents. Once approved, you'll receive the initial go-ahead to proceed.4. Pay Fees & Sign Legal Documents
Upon approval, pay the license and package fees. Sign the Memorandum and Articles of Association (if applicable).5. Lease Office Space or Flexi‑Desk
Choose a virtual office, co‑working space, or dedicated office within Meydan Free Zone and finalise your lease agreement.6. Obtain Trade License & Establishment Card
After confirming payment and lease, Meydan issues your official trade license and establishment card, typically within 5 days.7. Apply for Visas
You can now apply for investor, employee, or dependent visas. Meydan handles medical tests, Emirates ID issuance, and more.8. Open a Corporate Bank Account
Use the establishment card and trade license to open a business account. Meydan supports with banking partners and offers instant IBAN via Meydan Pay.What is the Meydan Free Zone License Cost?
Company formation in Meydan Free Zone is cost-effective and flexible. The license packages start from AED 12,500 for a zero-visa option, which includes three business activities and a shared flexi-desk. If you need visas, the packages scale accordingly. A 1-visa license costs around AED 14,350, while a 3-visa package is approximately AED 18,070. For businesses with higher staffing needs, a 4-visa package is available for about AED 19,920. Apart from the license, you’ll need to pay AED 2,000 for the establishment card. Visa costs for each applicant usually come to AED 3,500–4,000, including medical tests and Emirates ID. If you're applying for dependent or investor visas, the fees can range from AED 2,650 to AED 6,350. Your total setup cost may increase if you:- Add more than three business activities,
- Require extra visa slots,
- Upgrade to a private office,
- Or need approvals for regulated activities.
