Business Setup for Foreigners in Dubai: Start from Anywhere with Meydan Free Zone
February 1, 2022
September 23, 2025
September 11, 2024
September 23, 2025
Topic Summary
1. 100% Foreign Ownership Now Permitted
Dubai has abolished the previous requirement for local sponsors, allowing foreign investors to own 100% of their business in many sectors. This significant legal advancement facilitates complete control over company operations and profits for expats establishing businesses in the UAE.
2. Strategic Advantages of Meydan Free Zone
Meydan Free Zone is an emerging business hub offering world-class infrastructure, zero customs duties, and no restrictions on repatriation of capital and profits. Its business-friendly ecosystem supports startups and SMEs with flexible company structures and access to key markets in the Middle East.
3. Simplified Company Registration Process
Foreign entrepreneurs can register their businesses in Dubai’s free zones with relative ease. The process includes selecting a business activity, obtaining the appropriate licence, submitting legal documents, and securing office space if necessary. Meydan Free Zone provides streamlined procedures and dedicated support to minimise setup time.
4. Visa Options for Business Owners and Employees
Registering a company in Meydan Free Zone enables business owners and their employees to apply for UAE residence visas. These visas facilitate extended stays, sponsorship of dependents, and access to local banking and healthcare services, tailored to suit the duration and nature of the business activity.
5. Cost-Effective Business Setup
Meydan Free Zone offers competitive licensing fees, flexible office solutions including virtual offices, and minimal initial capital requirements. This affordability, combined with tax exemptions on corporate and personal income, makes it an attractive destination for foreign investors aiming to establish a presence in Dubai.
If you're Googling "how to start a business in Dubai as a foreigner," you're in the right place. This guide on business setup for foreigners in Dubai covers everything from company registration in Dubai for foreigners, licensing, visas, costs, and legal requirements for expats to start a business in the UAE. Discover why 100% foreign ownership is now possible and explore the ideal visa options and best free zones.
For expert insights on Meydan Free Zone's 60-minute license, see our Business Setup service (2025). And for the latest government procedures, check out the UAE's official free zone guidance, which confirms easy name reservation, license application and office setup.
Why Dubai Is Perfect for Foreign Entrepreneurs
Dubai is more than a place to launch a business, it’s where entrepreneurs find momentum. A global hub with 0% personal tax, over 2.5 billion people within a 4-hour flight radius, and an economy built for progress, Dubai offers you the freedom to scale and the structure to grow.
Over 6,000 millionaires moved here last year, not just for the weather, but for the belief that in Dubai, you can do more, live more, and build something that lasts.
Business-Friendly Environment
- Ranked among the world’s top 20 for ease of doing business.
- 100% company ownership, no local sponsor or NOC required.
- 95%+ of government services are digital, licensing and renewals done online.
- With Meydan Free Zone, setup is 100% online, fully owned, and done in 60 minutes.
Gateway to Global Markets
- Dubai connects you to 3+ billion people across Europe, Asia, and Africa.
- DXB is the world’s busiest airport; Jebel Ali is a top global seaport.
- Meydan Free Zone enables quick import/export code issuance and international scalability.
Financial Security & Wealth Growth
- Stable currency pegged to USD.
- 0% personal tax, full capital repatriation.
- 9% corporate tax (0% for qualifying Meydan Free Zone entities).
- 130+ global tax treaties, no withholding tax.
Safety, Stability & Peace of Mind
- Dubai is the 3rd safest city globally.
- 200+ schools, 60+ top hospitals, and seamless public transport.
- Meydan Free Zone offers secure, government-backed company setup.
Residency for You and Your Family
- 2-year residency visas for entrepreneurs.
- Family sponsorship includes spouse, children under 25, and staff.
- Meydan Free Zone manages the full visa journey online.
Lifestyle that Elevates Living
- Affordable and luxury homes across the city.
- Nad Al Sheba Mall near Meydan is set to be the world’s largest.
- 90 km metro, 12,000+ taxis, and two global airports keep you connected.
- Meydan Free Zone puts you at the centre of where life meets business.
Key Steps in Business Setup for Foreigners in Dubai
Here’s a simplified guide to Dubai free zone business setup for expats:
- Select your business activity – Choose from over 2,500 options offered by Meydan Free Zone.
- Reserve your trade name – Meet UAE naming criteria and secure your trade name using the Meydan Free Zone Naming Tool.
- Submit your application – Apply for initial approval and business license.
- Secure a workspace – Choose a flexi-desk, serviced office, or virtual workspace. On-demand office options are available.
- Register your company – Submit all required documents and pay the necessary setup fees.
- Open a bank account – Meydan Free Zone partners with over 26 banks to help you secure a guaranteed corporate bank account.
- Apply for visas – Meydan Free Zone provides visa registration and PRO services for founders and staff, including residency permits and renewals.
Costs and Licenses Made Simple for Foreigners
The cost of starting a business in Dubai for foreigners can vary depending on your business activity, the number of visas, office type, and other service selections.
Meydan Free Zone offers comprehensive packages that encompass licensing, workspace, visa quotas, and banking services in a single, seamless process. For exact and up-to-date pricing, it's best to speak directly with a setup advisor or use our cost calculator for free.
Best Free Zone in Dubai for Foreign Investors
Meydan Free Zone stands out as the best free zone in Dubai for foreign investors.
- Get your business license in less than 60 minutes — fast, simple, and stress-free.
- Enjoy 0% corporate tax as a qualified Free Zone company.
- Choose up to 3 activity groups from over 2,500 options, and we will guide any government approvals needed.
- Still working elsewhere? No problem, you can start your business with us, no NOC required.
- Open a guaranteed UAE business bank account with expert assistance our team.
- Secure an LLC license that protects your personal liability.
- Access 24/7 consultations and walk-in support whenever you need it.
- Only pay for what you need with our flexible, pay-as-you-grow model.
- Your data is protected with ISO-certified security that meets global standards.
- Manage everything through our award-winning digital platform — no queues, no delays.
How Meydan Free Zone Empowers Foreign Entrepreneurs in Dubai
Dubai is a top destination for global founders. With 100% foreign ownership business Dubai, tax perks, and rapid virtual strategies, such as Meydan's Fawri license, make it easier than ever to establish a presence in Dubai.
- Legal bureaucracy: LLC-FZ or FZE (single/multi‑shareholder)
- Regulations: select your license (business, expert, business)
- Visas: company visas included in programs; golden visas viable through investment pathways
- Tax compliance: VAT (5%) applies; company tax (9%) is best in positive mainland activity.
FAQs
1. What are the legal requirements for expats to start a business in the UAE?
Expats must have a valid passport, choose a legal structure, select a business activity, and apply for a business license. With Meydan Free Zone, the entire business setup for foreigners in Dubai is handled digitally, including name reservation, licensing, and visa processing.
2. How do I register a company in Dubai as a foreigner?
Company registration in Dubai for foreigners is simple through free zones. At Meydan Free Zone, you can register online without being physically present, choose from 2,500+ business activities, and receive your digital license in just 60 minutes.
3. What’s the best way for expats to set up a business in a Dubai free zone?
The most efficient Dubai free zone business setup for expats is through a zone like Meydan, where you can enjoy 100% ownership, no sponsor required, and integrated visa, banking, and license support all on one platform.
4. Is a business license in Dubai available to non-residents?
Yes, a business license in Dubai for non-residents is fully available through the Meydan Free Zone. Non-residents can apply remotely and gain access to UAE residency, corporate banking, and more.
5. What is the best free zone in Dubai for foreign investors?
Meydan Free Zone is one of the best free zones in Dubai for foreign investors. It offers full foreign ownership, 0% tax on qualifying income, fast licensing, and strategic access to global markets — making it ideal for international entrepreneurs.
.jpeg)