Business Setup in Meydan Dubai: A Complete Guide for 2025

Confused by the complexity of Dubai business setup? Uncertain where to begin learning about the Meydan Free Zone business setup process?

Dubai business setup is an exhilarating experience for business owners to reach one of the world’s most dynamic economic hubs.

Dubai free zones enjoy an array of benefits, including 100% foreign ownership, tax benefits, and simple business setup.

Of all the free zones in Dubai, Meydan Free Zone stands out as the most prominent because it is strategically located, has extensive services, and has competitive packages to new and established companies.

For the investment hunters searching for fresh business opportunities, Meydan Free Zone is beneficial on many grounds.

Like all the other free zones, firms located here are free from personal, income, or corporate taxation.

This makes it easier for such firms to streamline their accounts and enhance their profits that are otherwise not feasible under conventional taxation laws.

This guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of opening a business in the Meydan Free Zone so that you understand how to get your company running smoothly.

What Is Meydan Free Zone (MFZ)?

The Meydan free zone(MFZ), established in 2009 by Ruler’s Decree No. 5, is a perfect location to start a new business with an easy setup procedure and the advantage of being located at one of Dubai’s most prestigious addresses.

Situated in Nad Al Sheba, Meydan free zone is set up in convenient proximity to major financial and business centers, thus turning out to be a highly profitable region to engage in a variety of business operations. It’s also well-positioned near Dubai International Airport, supported by a vast list of contemporary infrastructure.

In addition to its strategic location and high-end address, businesses arising in the Meydan free zone can also benefit from free zone trading status, competitive rates, a lively market, and boundless growth opportunities.

Why Choose Meydan Free Zone for Your Business?

Foreign Ownership & Tax Benefits

• 100% foreign ownership and full repatriation of profits.
  As a free zone, Meydan allows international entrepreneurs to retain full ownership of their companies.
• Zero personal and corporate taxes for companies meeting regulatory requirements.
  Companies in Meydan benefit from a 0% corporate tax and 0% personal income tax, making it an attractive choice for businesses looking to maximize profitability.
• Operational Advantages:
  Meydan Free Zone offers various business licenses and flexible offices, including virtual offices and coworking offices. Business establishments are made easy with less paperwork, and companies can set up their presence effectively and rapidly. Meydan Free Zone has no currency restrictions, so it is easy to conduct business abroad.
• Cost-effectiveness and Value:
  
  • Competitive pricing compared to other Dubai free zones.
    
  • Access to affordable office spaces and a range of service packages.

Types of Licenses Available in Meydan Free Zone

Meydan Free Zone provides all kinds of licenses to suit all types of business activities. Some of the most frequently issued kinds of licenses are

• Consulting License: Suitable for providing consulting services, IT solutions, and other professional services
• Commercial License: The commercial sector comprises general trading, retailing services, and import and export. Notice that Meydan Free Zone does not have warehouse facilities for businesses that have to handle or stock physical goods and materials.
• Service License: This is best for service companies, like hotels and healthcare. Many activities belong to this category, including professional services like business consulting, real estate consulting, human resources support, technical services, accounting, and bookkeeping.
• Industrial License: Suitable for manufacturing, production, and distribution companies.
• Media License: For media production, publishing, and broadcasting businesses.

The type of license that you’ll require will be based on the nature of your business activities. You must carefully weigh your business activities and choose the license that will suit your purpose best.

Steps to Set Up a Business in Meydan Free Zone

a. Choosing the Right Business Activity and License

Choose the specific business activities that align with your firm’s goals and objectives. Meydan Free Zone has a wide range of acceptable activities, from trading, professional services, to arts, healthcare, media, and many more.

Look over the options given to determine what best fits your business. Select the right license that suits your business. You have a business license option, like commercial, service, industrial, or consulting.

b. Choose a trade name 

Choose a unique and suitable trade name for your business. Make sure the name is suitable under UAE government policies and does not offend anyone.

Refrain from using any words that can be deemed offensive, discriminatory, or misleading. The trade name must be simple to remember, pronounce, and spell. 

c. Application and Document Submission

Once you have finished your business plan and chosen your company structure, the next step is to apply to the Meydan Free Zone authorities.

This involves submitting and posting important documents—usually photocopies of the passports of all shareholders, a short business plan that outlines your operations, and details of the legal structure of your company.

The application, once submitted, will undergo a quick inspection process before moving to the licensing process.

d. Approval and Legal Procedures

Get ready and submit the documents to the Meydan Free Zone Authority for preliminary approval.

After your application is checked and approved, sign the Memorandum of Association, a legal document that describes the company’s organization, goals, and regulations.

e. Leasing Office Space

Determine if you require an office space for your business activities. Meydan Free Zone has a range of options to meet your requirements.

If you need a physical work area, you can opt for flexi desk options, shared or private offices, or coworking spaces.

Flexi desk options offer a business address and access to shared facilities, while shared or private offices provide more dedicated work areas. Coworking facilities are perfect for individuals who want a shared working space and the ability to network with other professionals.

f. Open a Bank Account

To open an account in Dubai or any other UAE location, you will have to submit necessary documents like your passport, visa, and license for business.

Enjoy the number of banking institutions available in the UAE, and benefit from being able to experience possibly quick opening procedures for an account.

It is possible that many banks can provide online as well as mobile banking facilities to make it easier to handle finances.

Costs of Setting Up a Business in Meydan Free Zone

1. Business License Fees

The business license is the highest cost component, and it varies by the nature of the business activity. Meydan Free Zone offers:

• Commercial License (for trade and e-commerce)
• Consultancy License (for professional services)
• Media License (for advertising, marketing, and media activities)
• General Trading License (for companies that trade in more than one product category)

Initial charge: AED 12,500 onwards (varies by type of license)

2. Office Space & Virtual Office Fees

Unlike Mainland companies, Meydan Free Zone companies can deal with flexible office facilities:

• Virtual Office – No office space is required, and it is ideal for startups.
• Shared Office – Cost-effective with access to workstations.
• Private Office – Private office accommodation for long-term occupation.

The price: AED 15,000 and upwards (depending upon the nature of the office).

3. Visa & Immigration Fees

If you are recruiting personnel or want to apply for a residency visa for yourself, you will need to include the visa fees.

• Investor Visa: AED 3,750 – AED 4,500
• Employee Visa: AED 3,000 – AED 4,000 per visa
• Medical and Emirates ID Charges: AED 1,200 – AED 1,500 per applicant

Total visa fee for each person: AED 5,000 – AED 7,000 (approx.)

4. Company Registration & Documentation Charges

Every new company needs to go through registration and compliance formalities.

• Company Name Reservation – AED 1,000
• Preparation of Memorandum of Association (MOA) – AED 2,500
• Trade License Renewal (Yearly) – AED 10,000 – AED 15,000

First-time registration: AED 3,500 – AED 5,000

Additional Services and Benefits in Meydan Free Zone

• Office Facilities: 

Whether you’re a solo founder or a small team, Meydan Free Zone has the right workspace for you. From affordable flexi-desks to private offices, everything is modern, fully serviced, and ready to go.

• Banking and Financial Services:

Opening a business bank account in Dubai can be tricky, but not with Meydan Free Zone. They guide you through the process and connect you with trusted banking partners to make it smooth and hassle-free.

• Networking and Business Community:
  • Access to a vibrant network of businesses in the MFZ.
    You’ll be amongst a thriving community of business owners. There are constant events, meetups, and forums wherein you can make friends with fellow entrepreneurs, pick up new clients, or possibly future partners in business.
  • Collaboration opportunities, events, and collaboration opportunities within the free zone.
  • Got a new idea or project? The Free Zone encourages working together. From joint events to startup-friendly programs, there’s always an opportunity to expand with others.
  • Opportunities for collaboration, events, and partnerships within the free zone.
    Got a new idea or project? The Free Zone encourages collaboration. From co-hosted events to startup-friendly programs, there’s always an opportunity to grow with others.

• Support Services:
  Need legal advice or help with accounting? No problem. Meydan Free Zone gives you access to expert consultants who can support you with everything from compliance to scaling your business.

Compliance and Ongoing Requirements

After setting up your business in Meydan Free Zone, staying compliant is key to smooth operations. Here’s what you need to know:

Annual License Renewal:
Your trade license must be renewed yearly. The process is simple—submit a renewal application, provide required documents like passport copies and tenancy agreements (if any), and pay the renewal fee. Delays can result in fines or business suspension.

Regulatory Compliance:
Keep proper accounting records and submit financial statements annually. If your revenue exceeds AED 375,000, VAT registration and quarterly filings are mandatory. Staying on top of reporting helps avoid legal issues and keeps your business healthy.

Economic Substance Regulations (ESR):
If your business performs certain activities, like holding company operations or intellectual property, you may need to file ESR notifications and reports, proving actual business presence in the UAE.

Employee & Labor Compliance:
Businesses must offer staff health insurance, legally binding contracts, and timely salary payments via the Wage Protection System (WPS). Depending on your sector, employee training or certifications may also be required.

Meydan Free Zone vs Other Dubai Free Zones

Benefits of Meydan Free Zone (MFZ) – At a Glance

MFZ provides a great starting point for Dubai businesses with advantages such as 100% foreign ownership, tax benefits, low setup fees, and a prime location. Its easy licensing and setup make it ideal for startups, freelancers, and SMEs.

• Comparative Snapshot:

1. Cost-Effectiveness:

• MFZ: Least expensive; flexible alternatives such as virtual/flexi-desks.
• DMCC: High-end pricing, ideal for high-end setups.
• JAFZA: Expensive, ideal for large industrial/trading firms.

2. Industry Focus:

• MFZ: Generalist zone—ideal for services, IT, consulting, marketing.
• DMCC: Deals with commodities trading.
• JAFZA: Deals with logistics, manufacturing, and high-volume trade.

3. Visa Quotas:

• MFZ: Startup-friendly quotas, even for virtual offices.
• DMCC: High quotas with large office needs.
• JAFZA: High quotas, but connected to larger facilities.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Starting a business in Meydan Free Zone is exciting, but like any venture, it comes with its own set of challenges. Here’s what you might face and how to tackle them:

1. Dealing with Bureaucracy
Even though Meydan Free Zone is known for its smooth setup process, paperwork can still get confusing, especially if it’s your first time dealing with UAE authorities. Things like approvals, legal forms, and understanding specific requirements can be tricky.
How to fix it: Partnering with a business consultant can save you time and headaches. They know the ins and outs of the system and can help get your documents sorted quickly and correctly.

2. Understanding Rules and Regulations
The UAE has clear but detailed business laws, and each free zone has its own guidelines. If you’re new to it, navigating this legal maze can feel overwhelming.
The solution: Work with legal experts who specialize in UAE business setups. They’ll help you stay compliant from day one and avoid any surprises later.

3. Cultural & Communication Differences
Dubai is super international, but cultural differences and business etiquette still matter. Misunderstandings can happen, especially in formal negotiations or partnerships.
What you can do: Take time to understand local customs. Attend local networking events, join communities, and learn how business is typically done in Dubai—it’ll help you build better relationships.

4. Standing Out in a Competitive Market
Dubai is a thriving business hub, so competition is a given. Without a clear strategy, your business might get lost in the crowd.
Pro tip: Start with solid market research. Know your audience, define what makes you different, and build a strong brand. Also, don’t shy away from digital marketing—it’s a powerful tool to connect with the right people and grow fast.

Conclusion: Why Choose Meydan Free Zone for Your Business in 2025

If you’re planning to start or grow a business in Dubai, Meydan Free Zone is the place to do it in 2025. Its full foreign ownership and tax-free profit, speedy setup, and handy office solutions make it geared up for entrepreneurs who want results without hassle. And being at the center and with world-class infrastructure, it has everything it takes to thrive in a competitive business climate.

Want to avoid the paperwork and start quickly?

That is where Arnifi steps in.

We’ll handle the whole setup—selecting the proper license to opening your bank account—so you can concentrate on your business, not red tape. Whether you’re a new company or an existing brand seeking to grow, Arnifi simplifies business setup in Meydan, quickens the process, and removes the hassle.