Meydan Free Zone in Dubai is particularly built for how modern businesses operate. You can:
Set up your Meydan company 100% remotely
Get your license in 3-8 working days
Operate globally without relocating
Unlike traditional jurisdictions, the process is fully digital, making it ideal for founders managing cross-border operations.
Most free zones offer similar benefits on paper. What sets Meydan apart is execution.
From application to license issuance, the entire process is streamlined. No unnecessary approvals. No physical paperwork. You can go from idea to operational business in under a week.
With over 2,500 business activities available, you can:
Combine multiple services under one license
Run consulting, tech, and marketing together
Avoid setting up multiple entities
This flexibility is especially valuable for founders building multi-service or evolving businesses.
Meydan is one of the few jurisdictions where pricing is relatively predictable. Typical starting cost:
License package: AED 12,500
Visa (optional): AED 3,500–5,000 per person (the zero-visa option is a major advantage if you are already a UAE resident and do not require an additional residency visa)
Additional fees: Establishment card, renewals
The setup process is straightforward and mostly online:
Select from a wide range of permitted activities. You can combine multiple under one license.
Submit your preferred names. Approval is fast and fully digital.
Free Zone LLC (for new businesses)
Branch (for existing companies)
Choose from:
Commercial
Consultancy
Media licenses
Basic requirements include:
Passport copy
Address proof
Business plan
Approval typically takes 3–8 working days.
Banking is often the slowest part of the process, not company registration.
A visa is usually needed if you plan to live in the UAE, hire locally, or complete smoother corporate banking processes, as many banks prefer account holders to have UAE residency.
Opening a bank account is not automatic. You’ll need:
Trade license
Shareholder details
Business activity clarity
Source of funds
Some founders use digital options (like IBAN-enabled solutions) initially while waiting for traditional bank approval. In many cases, having a UAE resident director can make the bank account opening process smoother, as banks often prefer local residency for key signatories. Preparation here can save weeks of delay.
Meydan is ideal for:
Consultants and service providers
Agencies (marketing, tech, advisory)
E-commerce businesses
Freelancers and solopreneurs
International founders managing remote operations
It may not be the best fit for:
Heavy manufacturing
Warehousing-intensive businesses
Compared to other options:
More affordable than premium zones
More flexible for multi-service businesses
More digital-first than traditional setups
Meydan is one of the most accessible entry points into Dubai business.
After setup, you’ll need to:
Renew your license annually
Maintain accounting records
Registration for CT within 3 months of business setup
Register for VAT (if applicable)
File corporate tax returns
Update UBO (beneficial ownership) records
If your goal is to:
Launch quickly
Operate globally
Keep costs predictable
Then Meydan offers one of the most efficient pathways into the UAE market.
The right start makes all the difference. With Kitaab, setting up your company at Meydan becomes simple, fast, and hassle-free. Submit your documents, avoid ongoing paperwork chaos, and get your business incorporated with ease so you can focus on growth from day one.

