Meydan Free Zone (MFZ) Free Zone
is a strategically located economic free zone in the UAE, nestled in the heart of Dubai. Established in 2009 under Ruler’s Decree No. 5, MFZ is positioned near the prestigious Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum City and the Dubai Logistics Corridor.
MFZ’s prime location makes it a highly attractive choice for business setup. It offers proximity to key commercial hubs and easy access to central locations, including Dubai International Airport. The Free Zone is surrounded by many commercial developments, including cutting-edge facilities, parks, hospitals, schools, residential communities, sports complexes, entertainment centres, and other well-established industries, enhancing its appeal to investors.
Meydan Free Zone: Your Gateway to Strategic Business Setup in Dubai
Meydan Free Zone, strategically situated in the heart of Dubai, offers an ideal location for businesses seeking proximity to key areas such as Downtown Dubai, Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum City, and the Dubai Logistics Corridor. Its central position makes it a prime choice for entrepreneurs and investors looking to establish a presence in one of the world’s most dynamic cities.
As one of Dubai’s most cost-effective free zones, Meydan Free Zone attracts global investors by providing a range of compelling incentives. Businesses here enjoy 100% ownership, zero taxation, no currency restrictions, the ability to hire foreign labour, high-speed internet connectivity, and exemption from import and export duties. The Zone’s flexible desk solutions are particularly beneficial for companies that do not require a permanent physical office, offering convenience and reduced overhead costs.
Located within the iconic Meydan Stadium, renowned for hosting international horse racing events, the Meydan Free Zone is a key component of Dubai’s vision to connect with the world through sports and business. Beyond the free Zone, the expansive Meydan project includes various commercial and residential developments. These include state-of-the-art business parks, luxury hotels, entertainment venues, hospitals, schools, waterfront residences, and premium shopping destinations to support a thriving business community.
By choosing Meydan Free Zone, you are not just setting up a business; you are positioning your company within a vibrant ecosystem that offers unparalleled opportunities for growth and success in Dubai’s competitive market.
Included Benefits of Meydan Free Zone
- 100% Foreign Ownership: Enjoy complete control over your business with full ownership rights.
- Multiple Business Activities: Conduct up to three business activities under a single license.
- Shared Desk Facility: Access a fully equipped shared desk space with all business packages.
- No Paid-Up Capital Required: Start your business with zero upfront capital investment.
- Wide Range of License Activities: Choose from over 1,500 license activities tailored to your business needs.
- 24/7 Office Access: Benefit from round-the-clock access to office facilities.
- Fast Company Setup: Get your company documents issued within just one day.
- Unrestricted Capital Repatriation: Repatriate profits and capital freely without any restrictions.
- Zero Import & Re-export Duties: Save on costs with 0% duties on imports and re-exports.
- Tax-Free Income: Enjoy the advantage of 0% personal income tax.
- Easy Bank Account Setup: Simplified processes for opening a bank account for your business.
Types of Licenses Offered in Meydan Free Zone
Meydan Free Zone provides various license options for different business activities, categorized into Commercial, Consultancy, and Media licenses.
Consultancy License:
This license is perfect for businesses offering professional services. It covers management consulting, business advisory, human resources consultancy, and other specialized consulting services.
Media License
Designed for businesses in the media sector, this license encompasses all media-related activities, including advertising, communications, and other creative services.
Due to its competitive licensing options, Meydan Free Zone is an excellent choice for freelancers and small startups. Its proximity to Downtown Dubai makes it an excellent choice for those looking to establish their business in a central and prestigious location.
Commercial License
Ideal for companies involved in trading, this license allows for the import, export, and distribution of various goods. Please note that Meydan Free Zone currently does not provide warehouse facilities, making it best suited for businesses that do not require storage space.
Meydan Freezone Business Set Up Cost
- Adding more visa allocations is costly around AED 1,850 each and you can apply for up to 6 visas.
- (It is allowed to have 3 activities for the set up of the license as long as they are on the same category/ group)
License without Visa | AED 12,500 |
1 Visa Allocation | AED 14, 350 |
2 Visas Allocation | AED 16,200 |
Immigration Card (valid for 1 year) | 2,000 |
Investor/ Partner/ Employment Visa (valid for 3 years) | 3,500 |
Medical & Emirates ID VIP Assistance | AED 2,250 |
Change Status | AED 1,500 |
Additional business activity/ group | AED 1,000 |
Requirements for Obtaining a Meydan Free Zone License
Individual Shareholder
- Application forms duly signed by the authorized signatory
- Passport and visa copy of shareholders/directors and manager
- Photo (Passport Size)
- Residence Visa Copy
- Emirates ID copy (if applicable)
- 3-year business plan
- CV of shareholder (s) / directors/manager
- Stamped original bank reference letter or 6-month bank statement
Corporate Shareholder
- Application forms duly signed by the authorized signatory
- Audited financial report
- Copy of company profile
- 3-year business plan
- Letter from the shareholding company for the appointment of a manager
- Board resolution calling for the establishment of a Meydan Free Zone company, attachment of specimen signature, passport copy & power of attorney for manager, director & secretary
- Company documents are issued within a day.
- Capital repatriation without restrictions
- 0% import or re-export duties
- 0% personal income tax
- Easy bank account setup
Steps to Setting Up Your Business in Meydan Free Zone
Establishing a business can be complex, but Creative Zone is here to guide you through the process, helping to minimize time and costs. Follow these steps to set up your company in Meydan Free Zone:
Choose Your Business Activities
Meydan Free Zone offers over 1,500 business activities. Identifying the correct category for your business is crucial to maximize the benefits and incentives associated with your trade license. You can select up to three business activities under a single license.
Apply for a Trade License
Once your business activities and company name are confirmed, the next step is to apply for your trade license. This essential document grants you the legal authority to operate your business within the Meydan Free Zone.
Open a Business Bank Account
Opening a business bank account is essential for managing financial transactions and establishing credibility with clients and partners. Meydan FreeZone facilitates a seamless account setup process, ensuring your business is ready to operate efficiently.
Select a Company Name
Preparing at least three potential company names is advisable to avoid delays if one of your choices is already registered. Ensure the names comply with regulations and do not contain offensive or blasphemous language.
Apply for a Visa
A visa is required before starting work in the UAE. Meydan free zone can handle all aspects of the visa application process for you, your employees, and your family, ensuring a smooth and efficient start to your business operations.
Comprehensive Company Formation Services at Meydan Free Zone
At Meydan Free Zone, we offer end-to-end company formation services, providing you with access to exclusive benefits through our Meydan Plus package. Our offerings include:
- License Issuance: We facilitate the swift and efficient issuance of all necessary business licenses.
- Legal Entity Formation: We assist in setting up the legal entities required to operate within the Meydan Free Zone.
- Shareholder Structure and Procedures: We guide you through defining and implementing your company’s shareholder structure.
- Share Allocation: We ensure your shares are structured correctly and comply with all regulations.
- Audit Process: Our team oversees auditing to ensure compliance with local standards.
- Facility Acquisition: We help you secure the necessary facilities to operate your business.
- Capital Investment Guidance: We advise on capital investment strategies to support your business growth.
- Organizational Structure Setup: We assist in designing and implementing a robust organizational structure.
- Visa Services: We manage all visa-related matters for you and your employees.
- Compliance with State Government Laws: We ensure that your business adheres to all state laws and regulations specific to the Meydan Free Zone.
- Driving License and Other Services: We assist with issuing driving licenses and other necessary services.
All these services are offered at competitive market rates. Contact us with your requirements, and our team of professional business advisors with years of experience in the field will handle the rest.
Permitted Legal Entities
- Sole Establishment
- Limited Liability Company (LLC)
- Branch of a Foreign Company
Director and Shareholder Requirements
Directors: Only individual directors are permitted; corporate directors are not allowed.
Shares: Bearer shares are not permitted. All areas must be fully paid when allocated, and no different classes of shares are allowed.
Share Capital: New companies and subsidiaries require a minimum share capital of AED 100,000. Branches are exempt from additional share capital requirements.
Shareholders: A minimum of one and a maximum of seven shareholders are allowed. You can be a partner or shareholder in multiple companies.
Audit: Every Meydan Free Zone company must appoint an auditor and file annual accounts as the authorities require.
Manager: Each company must appoint a manager, who must be under the company’s visa. The manager must be natural, and their name will appear on the license.
Company Name: The company name must end with “LLC-FZ” as applicable. Names with location references or religious connotations are prohibited.
Facilities and Presence Requirements
Flexi-Desk Facility: Meydan Free Zone companies operate using Flexi-desk arrangements.
Physical Presence: The shareholder must be physically present at the Free Zone, either in person or through an attorney.
If you need more information or assistance setting up the Meydan Free Zone, our local advisors are here to help. Contact us today! The advantages of the Meydan Free Zone for entrepreneurs include its ease of business setup, efficient processes, and potential benefits of the ‘Meydan Plus package’ in enhancing the business setup process.
Meydan Freezone Company Liquidation Or Cancelation
Note: Approximate cost:
Sr. | Job Description | Amount |
1. | Business License Cancellation for Meydan License | AED 2,020 + Vat |
2. | Liquidation Report (approximate) | AED 3000 + Vat |
3. | Immigration Card Cancelation (if there’s any) | AED 2,000 |
4. | Service Charge | Contact us |
Frequently Asked Questions
Upon registering a company in Meydan, you will receive a certificate of formation, business license, lease agreement, and Memorandum of Association (MoA).
The Meydan free zone offers a significant advantage in digitized business registration processes.
After a company is incorporated, you can apply for a visa, provided you have the necessary immigration card and visa allocation.
Meydan Free Zone allows foreign investors to own 100% of their companies, creating an attractive business establishment and growth environment.
MFZ companies in the UAE are exempt from corporate taxes and are relieved from filing, maintaining accounting records, and reporting obligations.
Businesses can opt for virtual offices instead of physical office space within the free zone, as it offers flexibility and convenience.
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