Meydan Free Zone: Easy Guide to Dubai’s Business Playground
Dubai has always been a bustling hub for business and innovation. With its strategic location and business-friendly policies, it’s no wonder entrepreneurs from around the globe are drawn to this dynamic city. One such location that’s particularly appealing is the Meydan Free Zone.
Nestled in the heart of Dubai, Meydan Free Zone offers strategic advantages due to its proximity to key landmarks. It features open office spaces and fully serviced offices catering to all types of businesses, including commercial, consulting, investment, and administrative companies. High-end residences, a 5-star hotel, a premium golf course, and the world-renowned Dubai World Cup horse race add to its appeal. This modern economic zone is designed to support and elevate your business endeavors.
A Digital Haven for Entrepreneurs
Meydan Free Zone ranks among the world’s largest and most advanced digital-free zones. Situated just 15 minutes from Dubai International Airport, it offers a unique opportunity to conduct multiple business activities under one license, making it ideal for a wide range of enterprises. Whether you operate an e-commerce unit, a marketing agency, or a management consulting firm, the convenience of a single license allows businesses to diversify and explore new opportunities with minimal administrative hassle.

Why Choose Meydan Free Zone for Your Business?
Establishing your business in Meydan Free Zone comes with a host of benefits, making it a prime choice for entrepreneurs in Dubai:
- Cost-Effective Setup: Enjoy the lowest company formation costs in Dubai.
- Central Location: Strategically located in the heart of Dubai.
- Ownership and Profit: 100% foreign ownership and repatriation of capital and profits.
- Tax Benefits: Zero corporate or personal income tax, and no import or re-export duties.
- Ease and Speed: Simple formation procedures, with company documents issued within a day.
- Flexible Operations: No minimum paid-up capital and 24/7 office facilities.
- Business Perks: Exclusive offers on food, beverages, and luxurious accommodations at the 5-star Meydan Hotel.
- Banking Made Easy: Simplified bank account setup.
- Diverse Activities: Choose from over 1,500 business activities, including opportunities outside the UAE.
- Regulated Environment: Safe and well-regulated business environment.
- Remote Setup: Shareholders don’t need to be physically present for formation.
- Visa Options: Various visa and non-visa packages available.
- Vibrant Community: A world-class, dynamic business community.
- Accessibility: Just 15 minutes from Dubai International Airport.

Benefits of Choosing Meydan Free Zone
Meydan Free Zone isn’t just about business; it’s about creating a dynamic and connected ecosystem for entrepreneurs and innovators. Here are some of its key benefits:
MOFA Recognized Business License: Businesses can get a license recognized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), which provides credibility and legitimacy.
Guaranteed Bank Account Opening: With a license from MFZ, businesses can open a bank account with over 26 local and international banks and fintech brands with a guaranteed IBAN.
Certification by the Dubai Chamber of Commerce: MFZ business licenses are certified by the Dubai Chamber of Commerce, enhancing the trust and confidence of stakeholders and partners.
Flexi-desk included with the license: This provides a flexible workspace solution for businesses, which is especially beneficial for startups and small businesses that need office space but also require flexibility.
Choice of Marketplaces: Businesses can choose from over 20 marketplaces to sell their products, providing them with numerous avenues for business expansion and revenue generation.
Work with Mainland Companies: Businesses in MFZ can open an office anywhere in Dubai and work with mainland companies with a No Objection Certificate (NoC).
Complete Foreign Ownership with Full Capital Repatriation: Businesses have the opportunity to be completely foreign-owned with the ability to repatriate all capital and profits, making it an attractive option for foreign investors.
3500+ Business Activities: Businesses have the freedom to conduct multiple activities under one license, such as operating an e-commerce unit, a marketing agency, or a management consulting firm, allowing for diversification and exploration of new opportunities.
Award-Winning All-Inclusive Digital Customer Platform: The digital platform of MFZ allows businesses to conduct transactions online, make immediate payments, and manage various aspects of their business. This platform has received awards for its innovation and effectiveness.
Interest-Free Deferral Plan: MFZ offers an interest-free deferral plan for 12 months from leading banks, providing financial flexibility for businesses.
Moreover, Meydan Free Zone is a fully digitized environment, with all trade licenses and payments made through its award-winning customer portal. From PO Box registration to document delivery, Meydan Free Zone ensures that communication needs are met with ease, allowing businesses to focus on growth while experts handle the details.

Business Setup in Meydan Free Zone: What’s the Cost?
Setting up a business in Meydan Free Zone is based on a Pay-As-You-Go model, offering flexibility in terms of capital. The fees depend on various factors, including your preferred method of starting and growing your trade license, the nature of your business activities, visa requirements, and the license duration.
Please note that the below costs are approximate and can vary. Always consult your business setup advisor for accurate costs.
Here’s a breakdown of costs based on different visa allocations:
| Visa Allocation | Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| 0 Visa | 12,500 |
| 1 Visa | 14,350 |
| 3 Visas | 18,050 |
Additional immigration costs include:
| Service | Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| Visa Allocation (1 to 50) | 1,850 per visa |
| Investor / Partner Visa | 4,000 |
| Residency / Employment Visa | 3,500 |
| Medical & Emirates ID Assistance | 2,250 |
| Establishment / Immigration Card | 2,000 |
Long-term planners can also enjoy savings of up to 15% with multi-year license setup deals, making it an excellent choice for businesses that are here for the long haul.
Timeline for Meydan Free Zone company formation
The timeline for Meydan Free Zone company formation is generally quite efficient, often taking between 3 and 10 business days. Here’s a breakdown of the typical process:
Day 1: Application Submission
- You’ll sign and submit your application for Meydan Free Zone business setup.
- This application can often be completed online through the MFZ portal.
Day 2: Company Name Reservation
- MFZ will reserve your chosen company name, ensuring its availability.
Day 3: Submission to Meydan Free Zone
- Along with all signed documents and a completed application, everything is submitted to MFZ for processing.
Day 6-8: Business License Issued
- Assuming all documents are in order and approvals granted, your Meydan Free Zone company license is issued.
- You’ll typically receive a scanned copy to begin your business activity.
The Meydan Lifestyle

Meydan isn’t just a place to do business; it’s a place to live, work, and play. Home to the world’s richest horse race, the Dubai World Cup, Meydan offers a range of luxury properties, world-class sports, and leisure facilities. Its prime location in the heart of Dubai provides easy access to major highways and transportation links, making it convenient for commuting or traveling around the city. Meydan is designed sustainably, with green spaces, parks, cycling paths, and energy-efficient buildings. Its community features schools, clinics, restaurants, and parks, so entrepreneurs can enjoy a diverse urban environment that supports everyday living.
The Meydan Free Zone (MFZ) boasts a vast array of business activities exceeding 2,500 options. This extensive selection caters to a diverse range of industries and business models. Here’s a breakdown of some key categories offered by MFZ:
Trading Activities:
- General Trading: Importing, exporting, and re-exporting a wide range of goods.
- E-commerce: Setting up an online store and conducting international sales.
- Commission Agent: Acting as an intermediary between buyers and sellers.
Professional and Business Services:
- Management Consultancy: Providing strategic advice and solutions to businesses.
- Accounting and Bookkeeping: Managing financial records and preparing financial statements.
- Human Resources and Recruitment: Assisting businesses with talent acquisition and management.
- Marketing and Advertising: Developing and implementing marketing strategies.
Technology and Communication:
- Software Development: Creating and maintaining software applications.
- Information Technology Consultancy: Providing IT infrastructure and support services.
- Telecommunications: Offering communication solutions like data and voice services.
Manufacturing and Logistics:
- Light Manufacturing: Setting up a production facility for smaller-scale goods.
- Warehouse and Distribution: Providing storage and logistics solutions.
- Freight Forwarding: Arranging the transportation of goods internationally.
Tourism and Hospitality:
- Travel Agency: Organizing travel packages and booking services.
- Event Management: Planning and executing events of all sizes.
- Hotel Management: Operating hotels and other hospitality establishments.
Creative Industries:
- Graphic Design: Creating visual content for marketing and communication purposes.
- Fashion Design: Designing and manufacturing clothing and accessories.
- Media Production: Creating and producing films, videos, and other media content.
Financial Services:
- Financial Consultancy: Providing financial advice and investment solutions.
- Forex Trading: Buying and selling foreign currencies.
Additional Considerations:
- VARA Activities: MFZ offers a unique advantage with the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) framework. This allows companies to conduct business activities related to cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology within a regulated environment.
- Combined Licenses: A significant benefit of MFZ is the ability to combine multiple business activities under one license. This flexibility allows businesses to expand their operations and cater to a broader range of clients
Conclusion
In conclusion, Meydan Free Zone provides an accessible, cost-effective, and flexible pathway for entrepreneurs looking to set up their businesses in Dubai. With its diverse range of services, strong digital infrastructure, and advantageous location, it presents an appealing prospect for businesses of all sizes.
Before we wrap up, it’s time to put your business ideas into action! If you’re looking to set up your venture in the Meydan Free Zone or any other part of the UAE, look no further than BizDaddy. As your dedicated business setup advisor, BizDaddy is here to assist you in navigating the business set up operations in the UAE. From handling paperwork to advising on the best options for your business, BizDaddy ensures a smooth and hassle-free process. So, why wait? Let’s turn your business dreams into reality with BizDaddy.
What are the tax benefits of operating in Meydan Freezone?
Meydan Freezone offers 0% corporate and personal income tax, import and re-export duties.
Does Meydan Freezone require any filing, accounting, or reporting requirements?
There are no filing, accounting or reporting requirements for MFZ companies.
What is the maximum validity period for a Meydan Free Zone license?
The maximum validity for a Meydan Free Zone license is up to 10 years.
Can I get a visa through Meydan Freezone?
Yes, you may be eligible for an Investor/Partner visa depending on your investment and shareholding structure.
Do I need a minimum paid-up capital to set up a company in Meydan Freezone?
No, there is no minimum paid-up capital requirement for companies in Meydan Freezone.



