Key Highlights:

• Set up your Dubai business in 60 minutes with Meydan’s Fawri license, or complete standard processing in 10-20 days with full visa support.​​
• Free zone companies can now legally serve Dubai’s mainland market under Resolution No. 11 of 2025, opening new revenue opportunities. 
• Achieve 0% corporate tax on qualifying income with proper QFZP structuring and substance requirements.​
• Total first-year costs range from AED 18,000-22,000 for solo entrepreneurs or AED 35,000-45,000 for families with multiple visas​.

Do you wonder if Meydan Free Zone is the right move for you in 2026? Here’s what you need to know. 

Setting up a business in Dubai isn’t just about escaping high taxes or complicated visa systems. It’s about positioning yourself in a market that’s actively designed to help international entrepreneurs thrive. 

But let’s be clear. This isn’t a decision you make based on Instagram posts or vague promises. You need facts, costs, timelines, and an honest breakdown of what works and what doesn’t. That’s exactly what this guide delivers. Keep reading to learn more. 

Why Choose Meydan Free Zone in 2026?

1. 100% Foreign Ownership Without the Bureaucracy

You don’t need a local sponsor. You don’t need to give up equity. You own your business completely. This matters more than you think, especially if you’ve dealt with partnership requirements in other jurisdictions where decision-making becomes a negotiation instead of execution.​

Meydan Free Zone lets you maintain full control while repatriating 100% of your capital and profits. Your money stays your money.​

2. Location That Actually Makes Sense

Meydan isn’t tucked away in an industrial zone an hour outside the city. It sits near Downtown Dubai, at the Meydan Racecourse area, just 15 minutes from Dubai International Airport. This gives you a prestigious business address without the isolation that comes with remote free zones.​

Compare this to RAKEZ in Ras Al Khaimah, which is about an hour from Dubai. If you’re meeting clients, pitching investors, or need quick access to government offices, location matters. Meydan gives you central Dubai proximity while keeping costs lower than premium zones like DIFC.​

3. New Mainland Activity Permissions Under 2025 Resolution

Here’s where things get interesting for 2026. Executive Council Resolution No. 11 of 2025, which became effective on March 3, 2025, fundamentally changed how free zone companies can operate.​

You now have three legal ways to conduct business in Dubai’s mainland:

• Branch establishment in Dubai for permanent mainland presence. Operating a branch from your free zone for limited mainland activities while keeping your headquarters in the free zone. Temporary permit for specific activities up to six months, costing AED 5,000.​
• The Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) was required to publish a list of permissible economic activities within six months of the resolution’s effective date. Existing establishments that were already operating outside their free zones received a one-year grace period to comply, which runs through March 2026.​

What this means for you: If you set up your business in Meydan Free Zone in 2026, you’re not locked into only serving international clients. You can tap into Dubai’s local market with proper approvals, something that required a separate mainland company before March 2025.

Important note: Any mainland revenue will be subject to the 9% corporate tax rate, and you must maintain separate financial records for compliance.​

Corporate Tax Structure That Rewards Substance

This is where many entrepreneurs get confused, so let’s break it down clearly.

Qualifying Free Zone Person (QFZP) status gives you 0% tax on qualifying income. To qualify, you must:​

• Maintain adequate substance in the free zone, meaning real employees, assets, and operating expenditures. Derive qualifying income from transactions with other free zone persons, manufacturing, trading qualifying commodities, holding shares for investment, or qualifying intellectual property income. 
• Prepare audited financial statements according to International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), which became mandatory for all QFZPs from tax periods beginning January 1, 2025 onwards. Follow arms-length pricing for related party transactions with proper transfer pricing documentation. Keep non-qualifying revenue below the lesser of AED 5 million OR 5% of total revenue.​
• If you fail any of these requirements, you lose QFZP status for the current year plus the next four years. That’s a five-year lockout at the 9% corporate tax rate.​
• Standard corporate tax applies at 9% on taxable income above AED 375,000 for non-QFZP entities, but QFZPs cannot use this threshold exemption.​
• Personal income tax remains at 0% across the UAE.

Disclaimer: Corporate tax rules in the UAE are evolving. Always verify your specific tax obligations with the Federal Tax Authority or a licensed tax consultant before making business decisions. The information here provides general guidance based on current regulations.

Choosing Your Legal Structure: FZE vs FZC vs Branch

1. FZE (Free Zone Establishment)

This structure works if you’re a solo entrepreneur or want complete control. You can be the single shareholder as an individual or through a corporate entity. Most consultants, freelancers, and service-based businesses choose this route because it’s straightforward.

2. FZC (Free Zone Company)

You need at least two shareholders for this structure. It suits partnerships where you’re bringing in a business partner or investor.

3. Corporate Shareholders

If you’re expanding an existing international business, you can use your foreign company as a shareholder. You’ll need your Certificate of Incorporation, Memorandum and Articles of Association, Board Resolution, and audited financials from your home country.

4. Branch of Foreign Company

For established international businesses, a branch structure lets you operate as an extension of your parent company. This requires notarized and certified parent company registration documents, plus a board resolution appointing a branch manager.

The choice depends on your current business structure and expansion goals. If you’re a US LLC owner looking to establish a UAE presence, the FZE structure typically makes the most sense because it mirrors your existing single-member structure while giving you the flexibility to scale.

What It Actually Costs: 2026 Transparent Breakdown

Let’s talk real numbers, not marketing ranges.

1. License Fees

A basic commercial license runs AED 12,000 to 15,000 annually. This includes up to three business activities and standard visa allocations.​

Meydan’s “Fawri” package (their 60-minute license) starts at AED 15,000 and includes your trade license, Memorandum of Association, share register, facility lease agreement, and certificate of formation.​

Zero-visa package costs AED 12,520 if you don’t need residence visas immediately. One-visa package runs AED 14,370. Three-visa package hits AED 18,070.​

2. Visa Costs Per Person

Here’s where costs add up if you’re bringing family or employees:

Agent service fees add another AED 2,000 to 3,500 per visa if you’re using assistance.

For a family of three (you, spouse, and one child), you’re looking at roughly AED 16,500 to 19,500 in visa costs alone for the first year, before agent fees.

3. Office Space

Standard packages include a flexi-desk or virtual office with a business address. This is included in your base license fee.​

If you need physical office space at Meydan, costs start around AED 20,000 per year, depending on square footage. Physical office space costs vary based on size and specifications. Verify current rates with the Meydan Free Zone Authority.

Ejari registration (mandatory for physical tenancy) costs AED 120 for online registration or AED 215 for offline registration, plus 5% of annual rent value.​

4. Annual Renewal Costs

License renewal mirrors initial fees: AED 12,000 to 15,000. Visa renewals repeat the per-person costs annually. This is why understanding your total cost of operations matters from day one.

5. Service Provider and Agent Fees

Setup assistance typically runs AED 3,000 to 8,000. PRO (Public Relations Officer) services cost AED 2,000 to 5,000 annually. The costs vary based on scope and provider. 

Get itemized quotations from multiple providers that clearly distinguish government fees from service charges. Some agents will quote you one bundled price that looks attractive until you realize you’re paying a premium for services you could handle yourself.

Disclaimer: All costs mentioned are estimates based on market data. Always verify exact pricing with official UAE government sources or the Meydan Free Zone Authority directly, as fees are subject to change.

Step-by-Step Setup Process for International Applicants

Step 1: Select Business Activities and Trade Name

You can choose up to three business activities from Meydan’s permitted list of over 2,500 options. Prepare three alternative company names because your first choice might already be taken.​

Avoid religious or political terms, duplicate names, or restricted words like “Emirates,” “Dubai,” or “International” without proper approval.

Verify name availability through the free zone authority portal before falling in love with one name.

Step 2: Submit Digital Application

You’ll need:

• Passport copies of shareholders and directors (valid at least six months)
• Passport-sized photographs (white background)
• Proof of address (utility bill or bank statement from your home country may be accepted)
• Business plan for certain activities
• Bank reference letter from your home country bank

Applications go through authorized channels or registered agents. The entire process can be completed remotely.​​

Step 3: Obtain Initial Approval

The free zone authority reviews your application while conducting automatic security clearance through the Criminal Investigation Department.

Processing time: 3 to 7 working days for most nationalities. With Meydan’s Fawri service, you can get approval in 60 minutes.​​

Step 4: Payment and License Issuance

Pay license fees via credit card or bank transfer. You’ll receive your electronic trade license (e-license PDF) immediately upon payment.

This is when your company legally exists. You can now sign contracts, send invoices, and begin operations.​

Step 5: Visa Processing

Submit visa applications through the ICP (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security) system at icp.gov.ae.

Timeline breakdown:

• Entry permit issuance: 2-5 working days
• Medical fitness tests at approved UAE health centers
• Emirates ID application and biometric data collection
• Visa stamping: 1-3 working days after medical clearance

Total timeline from application to visa stamping: 10 to 20 working days.

Business Activities: What You Can and Cannot Do

Commonly Permitted Activities in Meydan

• General trading within the free zone network
• Consultancy services (management, business, IT)
• Digital marketing and advertising services
• Software development and technology services
• E-commerce operations

Meydan Free Zone has evolved beyond a “flexi-desk only” model by integrating warehousing directly into its digital ecosystem. More details are available on Meydan Free Zone’s website.

Activities Requiring Additional Approvals

E-commerce with mainland customers: Department of Economic Tourism approval required under Executive Council Resolution No. 11 of 2025.

• Food and beverage: Dubai Municipality health permit mandatory.
• Marketing and advertising: Compliance with UAE Media Council regulations and Federal Decree-Law No. 55 of 2023 on Media Regulation.
• Professional services (legal, accounting, auditing): Requires professional licensing from respective regulatory authorities.

Mainland Trading Under New Rules

Under Resolution No. 11 of 2025, free zone establishments can conduct mainland activities through three mechanisms:​

1. Branch license in Dubai for permanent mainland presence
2. Operating branch from free zone for limited mainland activities while headquartered in the free zone
3. Temporary permit for specific activities up to six months (AED 5,000 fee)​

The Department of Economic Tourism maintains the list of permissible economic activities. Companies already operating outside their zones before March 2025 had until March 2026 to comply with these new requirements.​

Also Read: Choose the Right Free Zone: IFZA vs Meydan vs RAKEZ

The Banking Reality You Need to Understand

Let’s address this directly: There is no guaranteed bank account with your license.

Bank account approval is compliance-based, not automatic. This surprises many international entrepreneurs who assume a valid trade license equals instant banking access.

1. Digital Banking Options

Wio Business, Mashreq Neo, and Emirates NBD offer digital-first banking with faster approval, typically 2 to 5 days for straightforward cases.

These digital banks have become popular among free zone companies because they understand the remote setup model and have streamlined KYC (Know Your Customer) processes for entrepreneurs who haven’t physically relocated to Dubai yet.

2. Traditional Banks

Mashreq Bank, Emirates NBD, and RAKBANK take 2 to 4 weeks with stricter due diligence.

Traditional banks often require more documentation and may want to see business operations before approving accounts. If you’re applying from abroad without UAE residency, expect enhanced scrutiny.

Required Banking Documents

• Valid trade license
• Memorandum and Articles of Association
• Shareholder and director passports and Emirates IDs
• Proof of residential address
• Business plan and revenue projections
• Source of funds documentation​

For certain nationalities, expect additional compliance documentation or home country bank statements covering 6 to 12 months.​

1. Minimum Balance Requirements

Resident accounts: AED 3,000 to 5,000​
Non-resident accounts: AED 25,000 to 100,000+​
Corporate accounts: Varies by bank​

Consider opening an account with a digital bank first for operational needs while applying to traditional banks. This gives you immediate functionality while waiting for more comprehensive banking relationships.

Golden Visa Through Business Ownership

Your standard business visa from the Meydan Free Zone license gives you a 2- to 3-year renewable residence visa.

But if you qualify for the Golden Visa, you get 5 or 10 years of renewable residency with significantly more benefits.

1. Entrepreneurs Path (5-Year Golden Visa)

You need to own an economic project of a technical or future nature based on innovation. Requirements include:​

• Letter from a certified auditor proving project value of minimum AED 500,000​
• Approval letter from competent authorities or an approved business incubator confirming your project is innovative and technological​

This is the path that makes the most sense for tech entrepreneurs, software developers, or anyone building a scalable digital business.

2. Investor’s Path (Real Estate)

A 5-year or 10-year Golden Visa requires a property investment of AED 2 million. Properties purchased with UAE bank mortgages are eligible, with no minimum down payment requirement.

You’ll need proof from the Dubai Land Department confirming ownership.

3. Public Investments Path (10-Year Golden Visa)

Options include:

• Letter from an approved investment fund confirming deposit of minimum AED 2 million
• Valid commercial or industrial license with Articles of Association showing capital of AED 2 million

4. Family Sponsorship

Golden Visa holders can sponsor their spouse and children, which is a significant benefit if you’re relocating your family to Dubai.

Disclaimer: Golden Visa requirements and eligibility criteria can change. Verify your specific eligibility through official UAE government channels before making investment decisions based on visa programs.

Meydan vs Alternative Free Zones: Honest Comparison

1. Meydan vs IFZA (Dubai Silicon Oasis)

Location: Both in Dubai, but IFZA sits in the tech-focused Silicon Oasis area.

Cost: IFZA often offers multi-year packages with discounts, sometimes starting from AED 14,900.​

Prestige: Meydan is perceived as more premium due to its association with the Meydan Racecourse and hospitality district.​

Best for: Meydan suits entrepreneurs wanting a central Dubai address and flexibility. IFZA works well for tech startups prioritizing cost savings over location prestige.

2. Meydan vs RAKEZ (Ras Al Khaimah)

Location: RAKEZ is in a different emirate (Ras Al Khaimah), about one hour from Dubai.

Cost: RAKEZ is typically 20-30% cheaper than Dubai free zones, with packages starting from approximately AED 11,200 for zero-visa setups.

Activities: RAKEZ is better suited for industrial and manufacturing businesses. Meydan focuses on services, digital, and consultancy.​

Address: Meydan provides a Dubai address, which carries more weight internationally. RAKEZ does not.

Best for: If you’re running a service-based or digital business and need the Dubai brand for credibility with international clients, Meydan wins. If you’re in manufacturing or need warehouse space and want to minimize costs, RAKEZ makes more sense.

Corporate Tax Compliance and Audit Requirements

Understanding Your Audit Obligations

Standard commercial activities in free zones do not automatically require annual audits for license renewal in all jurisdictions. However, Meydan Free Zone, like several major Dubai free zones (DMCC, JAFZA, DWC), requires companies to submit audit reports for trade license renewal.​

Additionally, if you’re maintaining Qualifying Free Zone Person (QFZP) status for 0% corporate tax, audited financial statements prepared according to International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) become mandatory from tax periods beginning January 1, 2025 onwards.​

This requirement is based on Ministerial Decision No. 84 of 2025, which replaced the earlier Decision No. 82 of 2023.​

Who Must Maintain Audited Financial Statements

You must prepare and maintain audited financial statements if you are:

1. A Qualifying Free Zone Person (QFZP) seeking 0% tax on qualifying income​
2. A taxable person (not part of a tax group) with annual revenue exceeding AED 50 million​
3. Part of a tax group (special purpose financial statements required)​

Audit Filing Requirements

The audited financial statements and corporate tax return must be filed with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) within 9 months from the end of your tax year.​

Failure to submit properly audited accounts or submission of inaccurate financial information can lead to:

• Loss of QFZP status and the 0% corporate tax rate benefit
• Exposure to the standard 9% corporate tax rate on entire taxable income
• Potential penalties or additional scrutiny by the FTA​

Recommendation: Engage a licensed external auditor approved by your free zone authority and familiar with UAE Corporate Tax Law requirements. Maintaining proper financial records from day one makes the audit process significantly smoother.

Working with Channel Partners and Service Providers

1. Direct Application vs Using an Agent

Direct to free zone authority:

Pros: No middleman fees, direct communication
Cons: Requires understanding of the process, may need UAE presence for certain steps

Using authorized channel partners:

Pros: End-to-end support, remote processing capability, banking assistance, PRO services
Cons: Service fees ranging from AED 3,000 to 10,000, potential renewal lock-in. Setup assistance fees vary by provider and service scope. 

2. Key Questions to Ask Agents

Before you commit to any service provider, get clear answers on:

1. Itemized breakdown of government fees versus service fees
2. NOC (No Objection Certificate) charges if you want to switch agents later
3. Exit or transfer fees if you close or transfer your company
4. Renewal pricing commitments and whether rates are locked

Obtain written quotations from multiple providers and verify they are registered authorized channel partners with the free zone authority.

Company Liquidation and Exit Process

Nobody starts a business planning to close it, but understanding the exit process matters from day one.

When Liquidation Is Required

• Ceasing business operations
• Relocating to a different jurisdiction
• Business restructuring or merger

Liquidation Steps

1. Board resolution: Shareholders approve liquidation
2. Visa cancellations: Cancel all employee and shareholder visas and Emirates IDs
3. Settle liabilities: Clear all outstanding invoices, supplier payments, and obligations
4. Newspaper publication: Mandatory 15-day notice in Arabic-language official gazette announcing liquidation intention
5. Government clearances: Obtain clearance letters from free zone authority, immigration department, and Federal Tax Authority (tax clearance certificate)
6. Bank account closure: Requires zero balance and all clearance letters
7. Final license cancellation: Submit all clearances to free zone authority

Timeline and Costs

Timeline: Minimum 45 to 60 days from initiation to completion, assuming no disputes or outstanding liabilities.

Costs:

• Government fees: AED 1,500-3,000
• Newspaper publication: AED 1,000-2,000
• Agent or consultant fees (if using): AED 4,000-15,000
• Total budget: AED 6,500 to 20,000

You cannot liquidate with outstanding visa obligations or unpaid government fees.

FAQs Based on Real Entrepreneur Questions

1. What is the minimum cost to start a business in Meydan Free Zone?

A basic package with a license, one visa, and a virtual office runs approximately AED 18,000 to 22,000 for the first year, including government fees and standard service provider assistance.

If you handle the application yourself and don’t need visas immediately, you can get started for around AED 12,520.​

2. Can I live in Dubai with a Meydan Free Zone license?

Yes. The investor or partner visa grants UAE residency, allowing you to rent accommodation anywhere in the UAE, obtain a driving license, and sponsor family members.

3. Does Meydan Free Zone require annual audits?

Meydan Free Zone requires audit reports for trade license renewal. Additionally, if you maintain Qualifying Free Zone Person (QFZP) status for 0% corporate tax, audited financial statements prepared according to IFRS are mandatory from tax periods beginning January 1, 2025.​

4. Can I trade with mainland UAE customers?

Yes, under Executive Council Resolution No. 11 of 2025, but you need additional approval from the Department of Economic Tourism. Your options are a mainland branch license, an operating branch from the free zone, or a temporary permit for AED 5,000.​

5. What happens if my company name is rejected?

Common rejection reasons include duplicate existing names, religious or political references, and restricted words without approval. The solution is simple: submit alternative names from your backup list. Reapplication is immediate with no penalty.

6. Do I pay 0% or 9% corporate tax?

It depends on your Qualifying Free Zone Person (QFZP) status. If you meet all QFZP criteria (adequate substance, qualifying income from free zone transactions or activities), the 0% rate applies on qualifying income. Non-qualifying income or failure to meet criteria means the 9% rate applies.​

7. How do I close my Meydan company?

The process involves board resolution, visa cancellations, settling liabilities, 15-day newspaper publication, government clearances, bank closure, and license cancellation. Timeline is 45-60 days minimum. Budget AED 6,500 to 20,000.

8. Can I open a bank account before getting my visa?

Some digital banks like Wio and Mashreq Neo allow account opening with an entry permit before visa stamping. Traditional banks typically require an Emirates ID, which is issued after visa stamping.

What This Means for You in 2026? 

You’ve now got the full picture. Meydan Free Zone in 2026 isn’t just another free zone option. It’s a strategic choice for international entrepreneurs who want:

• A legitimate UAE business presence with a central Dubai address
• The flexibility to serve both international and mainland markets under the 2025 regulations
• Clear corporate tax advantages if you structure properly for QFZP status
• Fast setup timelines (as quick as 60 minutes with Fawri, or 10-20 days with standard processing)
• Full ownership without local sponsor requirements

After all, the banking isn’t automatic, so plan for digital banking first while you build relationships with traditional banks. The Golden Visa is achievable if you meet the innovation or investment thresholds. And the new mainland operating permits mean you’re not locked into only serving international clients.

Here’s what you should do next:

1. Calculate your total first-year costs based on your specific visa needs and office requirements
2. Verify your business activities are permitted in Meydan and don’t require special regulatory approvals
3. Determine your QFZP eligibility so you know whether you’ll qualify for 0% or 9% corporate tax
4. Get written quotes from at least three authorized service providers with itemized government vs service fees
5. Confirm your Golden Visa eligibility through official channels if long-term residency is part of your plan

If you’re ready to position your business for global growth, handle your tax planning intelligently, and build real substance in one of the world’s fastest-growing markets, Meydan Free Zone in 2026 is worth serious consideration.

Ready to take the next step? 

Book your free consultation call today with the experts of JSB Incorporation to learn more about setting up your business in Meydan Free Zone in 2026.