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Discover how to set up a business in Meydan Free Zone, Dubai

Learn about license options, setup costs, residence visas, and the benefits of setting up a business in Meydan Free Zone, Dubai

Learn about license options, setup costs, residence visas, and the benefits of setting up a business in Meydan Free Zone, Dubai
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Meydan Free Zone, located in the heart of Dubai, offers a premier platform for entrepreneurs, small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and startups looking to establish their presence in the UAE. With its strategic location, streamlined business setup process, and competitive costs, Meydan Free Zone has become a top choice for investors worldwide. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the formation process, costs, and advantages associated with setting up a business in Meydan Free Zone.

Meydan Free Zone: Overview

Meydan Free Zone (MFZ) is strategically located within Dubai’s Meydan District, known for its luxurious lifestyle offerings and proximity to key business hubs. The zone is designed to support modern entrepreneurs and businesses by providing a flexible, cost-effective, and efficient environment for company formation. Meydan Free Zone caters to a wide range of industries, including technology, e-commerce, trading, and consultancy.

Key features of MFZ include 100 per cent foreign ownership, zero corporate tax, and the ability to operate internationally. Businesses in MFZ benefit from access to world-class facilities, seamless registration processes, and a business-friendly regulatory framework. These attributes make MFZ an attractive option for individuals and organizations seeking to establish a foothold in Dubai’s thriving economy.

Types of Business Licenses Offered by Meydan Free Zone

Meydan Free Zone provides a variety of business licenses tailored to meet the diverse needs of entrepreneurs and companies. These licenses cover a broad spectrum of industries and activities, ensuring that businesses of all types can operate efficiently within the zone.

Key Licenses Available:

  • Commercial License: For businesses involved in trading, import, export, and distribution of goods.
  • Consultancy License: For professionals offering advisory services, including management consulting, IT consulting, and more.
  • Media License: For businesses involved in creative and media-related activities, such as advertising, publishing, and digital content creation.
  • General Trading License: Ideal for companies planning to trade a wide range of goods under a single license.

Each license is designed with flexibility in mind, allowing businesses to scale their operations as they grow. Additionally, the licensing process is streamlined, enabling entrepreneurs to start their businesses quickly and efficiently.

Popular Business Activities in Meydan Free Zone

Meydan Free Zone supports a diverse range of business activities, making it an ideal destination for entrepreneurs and companies from various industries. The flexibility in licensing allows businesses to operate in multiple sectors without limitations. Below are some of the most popular business activities within the zone:

  • E-commerce: With Dubai’s thriving digital economy, e-commerce businesses flourish in MFZ, benefitting from streamlined logistics and a tech-savvy consumer base.
  • Consultancy Services: Business and management consultants frequently choose MFZ for its ease of setup and supportive environment for professional services.
  • Trading: Import-export businesses enjoy access to world-class ports and airports, enabling smooth operations for trading activities.
  • Media and Marketing: Creative agencies and digital marketing firms thrive with the media license, catering to the dynamic needs of regional and global markets.
  • Technology Startups: The free zone provides an excellent launchpad for tech-driven businesses, offering cost-effective solutions for innovation and growth.

By accommodating a wide variety of activities, Meydan Free Zone ensures businesses can leverage Dubai’s position as a global trade and business hub.

Facilities and Services Provided by Meydan Free Zone

Meydan Free Zone offers state-of-the-art facilities and comprehensive services designed to support businesses at every stage of their journey. These features cater to the diverse needs of entrepreneurs, startups, and established enterprises, ensuring a smooth operational experience within the zone.

Key Facilities:

  • Modern Office Spaces: Fully furnished offices equipped with cutting-edge technology, enabling businesses to operate efficiently.
  • Coworking Spaces: Flexible coworking options for freelancers, startups, and small businesses looking for a collaborative work environment.
  • Warehousing and Logistics Support: Dedicated storage and distribution facilities to streamline supply chain operations.
  • Virtual Office Solutions: Ideal for businesses looking to reduce overhead costs while maintaining a professional presence in Dubai.

Supportive Services:

  • Business Setup Assistance: Expert consultants to guide entrepreneurs through the company formation process.
  • Banking Support: Assistance with opening corporate bank accounts in Dubai.
  • Visa Processing: Simplified procedures for acquiring residence and dependent visas.
  • Networking Opportunities: Access to events and workshops that foster business growth and partnerships.

With its robust infrastructure and professional support, Meydan Free Zone provides an ecosystem that promotes business success and innovation.

License Costs in Meydan Free Zone

One of the key advantages of establishing a business in Meydan Free Zone is its competitive and transparent licensing costs. The zone offers affordable options that cater to startups, small businesses, and enterprises seeking a cost-effective entry into the UAE market.

General License Fees:

  • Single Activity License: AED 12,500 annually.
  • Multiple Activities License: AED 14,500 annually.
  • General Trading License: AED 15,000 annually.

These costs are inclusive of initial setup and renewal fees, ensuring businesses can focus on operations without unexpected financial burdens. Meydan Free Zone also offers flexible payment options, allowing businesses to manage expenses effectively during their growth phase.

For businesses requiring additional services, such as extra visas or specialized permits, the zone provides tailored packages that maintain affordability while addressing unique operational needs.

Residence Visa Costs in Meydan Free Zone

Meydan Free Zone simplifies the process of obtaining a UAE residence visa for business owners and their employees. The cost structure is designed to remain competitive, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes.

Costs for Residence Visa:

  • Employment Visa for Business Owners and Employees: AED 3,500 to AED 5,000 (including medical tests, Emirates ID, and visa stamping).
  • Visa Validity: Typically valid for 2 to 3 years, depending on the package selected.

The visa process includes:

  1. Application Submission: Submit required documents, such as a passport copy and a recent photograph.
  2. Medical Examination: Completion of mandatory medical tests in approved centers.
  3. Emirates ID Registration: Processing of the Emirates ID, which serves as the official identification for residents.
  4. Visa Stamping: Final visa stamping on the passport.

The free zone offers full support throughout the visa application process, ensuring minimal delays and maximum convenience for business owners and their teams.

Share Capital Requirements in Meydan Free Zone

One of the significant advantages of Meydan Free Zone is its flexible share capital requirements, making it attractive for startups and small businesses. Unlike other jurisdictions, Meydan Free Zone does not mandate a minimum share capital deposit for company registration.

Key Details:

  • No Minimum Requirement: Businesses are not required to deposit or maintain a specific amount as share capital in a bank account.
  • Flexibility for Growth: Companies can allocate resources more effectively without the burden of tying up funds as share capital.

This approach is particularly beneficial for entrepreneurs and startups who can focus their investments on scaling their business rather than meeting rigid financial requirements. Meydan Free Zone’s policy underscores its commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment.

Advantages of Setting Up a Business in Meydan Free Zone

Meydan Free Zone stands out as one of Dubai’s most appealing business destinations, offering numerous benefits that cater to the needs of entrepreneurs and companies. These advantages make it an ideal choice for businesses looking to establish a strong foothold in the UAE.

Key Advantages:

  1. 100 per cent Foreign Ownership: Entrepreneurs retain complete control of their business without the need for a local sponsor.
  2. Zero Taxes: No corporate or income taxes, ensuring higher profitability.
  3. Strategic Location: Proximity to major business hubs, ports, and airports enhances accessibility and logistics.
  4. Diverse Business Activities: Flexibility to engage in a wide range of activities under one license.
  5. Streamlined Setup Process: Quick and efficient procedures for company formation, ensuring businesses can start operations promptly.
  6. Full Repatriation of Profits: Businesses can transfer their earnings back to their home country without restrictions.
  7. Supportive Ecosystem: Access to modern facilities, expert advisory services, and networking opportunities.

Meydan Free Zone’s combination of competitive costs, operational flexibility, and government-backed support creates a robust environment for businesses to thrive.

Dependent Residency Visa and Family Sponsorship

Meydan Free Zone not only supports business owners but also facilitates the sponsorship of dependent visas for family members. This benefit ensures that entrepreneurs and employees can bring their families to the UAE, enhancing the overall experience of living and working in Dubai.

Sponsorship Eligibility:

  • Business owners and employees with valid residence visas are eligible to sponsor their dependents, including spouses, children, and, in some cases, parents.
  • The sponsoring individual must meet specific income criteria as outlined by UAE immigration authorities.

Process:

  1. Application Submission: Provide the required documents, including passport copies, marriage certificates (attested), and birth certificates for children.
  2. Medical Tests: Dependents above 18 years must undergo medical examinations.
  3. Visa Stamping: After approval, the visa is stamped on the dependent’s passport, granting legal residency.

Sponsoring family members in Meydan Free Zone is straightforward and ensures that families can stay together while building their lives in the UAE.

Cost of Dependent Residency Visa

Sponsoring dependents through Meydan Free Zone is a cost-effective process, ensuring families can join business owners and employees in Dubai without excessive financial burden.

Breakdown of Costs:

  • Dependent Visa Fees: AED 4,000 to AED 5,500 per visa (inclusive of medical tests, Emirates ID, and visa stamping).
  • Medical Examination: Part of the visa process, costs range from AED 300 to AED 500 depending on the test type.
  • Emirates ID Registration: AED 250 to AED 400, based on the visa validity period (1 to 3 years).

The cost includes all essential steps, from documentation to final approval. Meydan Free Zone offers guidance throughout the process, ensuring clarity and efficiency in securing dependent visas.

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