How to Start a Software Company in Dubai With Meydan Free Zone

Dubai’s digital economy is redefining how industries operate. From cloud-based startups to AI-driven enterprises, the UAE is fast becoming a global hub for software innovation and technology entrepreneurship.

As part of the UAE Digital Economy Strategy, software companies are now at the heart of national transformation, powering smart city solutions, AI ecosystems, and enterprise technologies that are shaping the region’s future. Backed by progressive government policies, advanced digital infrastructure, and a thriving innovation culture, Dubai offers one of the most dynamic environments for tech founders to build and scale.

Whether you’re launching the next global SaaS platform, developing mobile applications, or offering IT consulting and software services, Meydan Free Zone provides the ideal foundation for growth.

With 100% foreign ownership, 0% corporate tax on qualifying income, and a fully digital business setup, Meydan Free Zone empowers tech entrepreneurs to turn bold ideas into scalable global ventures — all within a connected ecosystem built for innovation, speed, and success.

Retail Sale Of Computers, Peripheral Units, Software And Telecommunications Equipment In Specialised Stores (4741.00)

Starting a software company means choosing the right business activity, depending on the services or products you plan to offer. This activity group allows you to run tech retail businesses selling hardware and off-the-shelf software directly to customers. You can open a store, specialising in computers, peripherals, or video game consoles, computers, laptops, and accessories.

The business activity 4741.04 specifically focuses on the retail sale of ready-made, non-customised software, including computer applications, productivity tools, and video games for all platforms. With this, you can operate a specialised retail store or e-commerce platform that supplies software directly to end-users, from individual consumers and gamers to small businesses looking for professional tools.

Under the business activity 4741.87, you can trade specialised software that enables smooth system operations, secure data transfers, and efficient communication networks, serving both corporate clients and technology providers across Dubai and beyond. This covers trading system software, communication tools, security programs, and embedded software for networks, servers, and connected devices.

The business activity, 4741.96, focuses specifically on the trading and distribution of encryption and data protection software. With this, you can engage in the commercial trading of encryption software designed to secure communication systems, protect confidential files, and manage digital identities, serving corporate clients, government bodies, and cybersecurity service providers.

This business activity group excludes the retail sale of blank storage media such as tapes, disks, or other recording materials, which are covered under a different classification.

Third-party Approval

No third-party approvals are needed for these business activities.

Anti-Money Laundering

These business activities are exempted from AML requirement.

Software Publishing (5820.00)

As businesses, governments, and consumers increasingly shift toward digital platforms, the need for ready-made software solutions has skyrocketed. From mobile apps to enterprise tools, the opportunities for publishers in Dubai’s tech economy have never been greater.

This business activity group, 5820.00, focuses specifically on the creation, licensing, and distribution of software, including operating systems, mobile and desktop applications, and computer games for all platforms. With this, you can build and sell proprietary software products, release updates, and publish new applications to serve global markets, from productivity tools to entertainment apps.

Under the business activity 5820.01, you can develop and publish software for general use, without modifying it for specific clients, allowing your business to scale faster and reach a global audience. This business activity also allows you to publish operating systems, business and consumer applications, mobile and desktop apps, and software updates or digital licensing models across global platforms.

This business activity group (5820.000 excludes the reproduction of software, the retail sale of ready-made programs, software development not related to publishing, and the online hosting or provision of software services.

Third-party Approval

No third-party approvals are needed for these business activities.

Anti-Money Laundering

These business activities are exempted from meeting AML requirements.

Designing The Structure And Content Of, And/Or Writing The Computer Code Necessary To Create And Implement Systems Software and Application (Including Updates And Patches), Database and Webpages (6201.01)

The business activity 6201.01 falls under a wider category, Computer programming, consultancy and related activities, but focuses specifically on the design, structure, and development of software systems, applications, databases, and web solutions, including updates, patches, and long-term support.

With this activity, you can operate as a software development company, web solutions agency, or IT services provider, helping clients build powerful digital systems that drive performance, scalability, and innovation.

Under the business activity 6201.02, you can do the customisation, configuration, and modification of pre-built software, ensuring that it integrates seamlessly with a client’s IT environment, workflows, and data systems. You can also work with organisations across industries to fine-tune their software for better performance, security, and compatibility, helping them make the most of the technology they already use.

The business activity 6201.94 focuses on the design, development, and structuring of software used in computer systems and communication equipment, ensuring that hardware, software, and communication networks work together seamlessly. With this, you can create the digital architecture that drives servers, routers, data systems, and smart devices used across industries in Dubai and beyond.

The business activity 6201.99, focuses specifically on the development and delivery of educational and training software. With this, you can create, publish, or distribute interactive programs designed to teach users how to operate software, learn coding, or enhance their digital skills , whether in classrooms, corporate training, or online learning environments.

These business activities however, exclude the publishing of packaged or ready-made software, as well as the planning and design of integrated computer systems that combine hardware, software, and communication technologies.

Third-party Approval

No third-party approvals are needed for these business activities.

Anti-Money Laundering

These business activities are exempted from AML requirement.

Planning And Designing Of Computer Systems That Integrate Computer Hardware, Software And Communication Technologies (6202.01)

Falling under the wider category of Computer Consultancy and Facilities Management Activities, this business activity focuses specifically on planning and designing computer systems that integrate hardware, software, and communication technologies. With this, you can help organisations build efficient, connected, and scalable digital systems, ensuring seamless communication between people and technology.

This business activity excludes the separate sale of computer hardware or software, as well as standalone installation services for mainframe systems, personal computers, or individual software programs.

Third-party Approval

‍No third-party approvals are needed for this business activity.

Anti-Money Laundering

‍This business activity is exempted from AML requirement.

Software Installation (6209.03)

This business activity falls under the broader category of Other Information Technology and Computer Service Activities, and focuses specifically on the installation, configuration, and setup of software applications and systems.With this business activity, you can:

• Install and configure software applications for desktops, servers, or mobile devices.
• Deploy operating systems, antivirus programs, and enterprise solutions for clients.
• Manage software upgrades, patches, and compatibility checks.
• Provide user support and troubleshooting during installation and setup.
• Offer on-site or remote software setup for individuals and organisations.

However, it excludes the installation of mainframe computers, computer programming or consultancy services, facilities management, and data processing or hosting activities.

Third-party Approval

‍ No third-party approvals are needed for this business activity.

Anti-Money Laundering

‍ This business activity is exempted from AML requirement.