eCommerce is evolving and positive customer engagement is going to be the key to success.

Zbooni is the next-generation digital platform for commerce. We harness the power of cCommerce – what we describe as “connected commerce” – to help businesses deliver a more personalized touch that engages customers and drives sales effectively. So how do we do this?

Well, Zbooni enables retailers to expand into new sales channels with an intuitive app and dashboard that clearly presents data to users. You can capture and manage customer information through a host of social media and online messaging apps. WhatsApp, Instagram, Snapchat, Telegram and more can be used to talk directly to consumers and receive payments in seconds. This concierge experience, where the customer receives VIP treatment through their apps has been proven to be 90 per cent more effective than email marketing models.

The reason for this is quite simple. Tech-savvy Millennials and Generation Z-ers spend countless hours on smartphones and tablets and feel increasingly comfortable completing transactions online. They’re ready to be engaged by retailers through the apps that they use daily. In fact, they’ve come to expect a bespoke customer experience whether they’re in-store or shopping online. This growing connected society is the reason that, according to an Adobe report, eCommerce is expected to hit $1trn in sales in 2022.

Selling through these channels isn’t new – it’s a sales process that has been present for a number of years. But the Covid-19 pandemic provided a catalyst that introduced a sharp rise in the demand for frictionless shopping experiences. It started during lockdown but has now become the norm. Zbooni is the evolutionary step that makes it easy for retailers to bring their business into the future.

Although you can build your eCommerce business on Zbooni and start selling in a matter of minutes, we cater for offline companies too. The beauty of cCommerce means that even if you don’t have an eCommerce website, but still have the means to fulfill orders from “brick and mortar” stores, Zbooni can still allow you to drive sales to online customers. Our all-in-one payment solutions include a payment gateway and can generate checkout links that can be sent to customers in an instant. It’s a great way to expand your business without spending enormous amounts of your budget on a convoluted website build.

Zbooni doesn’t just stop being helpful once the sale has been completed. With future-proof tech that captures sales and customer data directly to the app, you can use this information to create intricate marketing plans for groups or even individuals.

For example, if you sell sneakers you can inform customers directly about when a new drop is about to land in-store. As cCommerce allows genuine conversations with customers, they could reveal that the trousers they bought are for a party, which opens the door to suggesting accessories to complete the look. The data that is captured can even help you to curate products for a specific demographic or individual customer.

The possibilities for changing the B2C narrative and turning your usual “one-and-gone” customers into repeat purchasers are only limited by your own ideas. Businesses can still input their traditional marketing calendars for standout dates such as Ramadan, Christmas and the like. Zbooni can then be used to zero in on the ideal customer(s) for these plans using the captured data that users have at their fingertips. Sending a customer a WhatsApp message about an upcoming Black Friday sale item, weeks in advance can build a trusted relationship like never before.

With Zbooni, creating a meaningful relationship between you and your customers has never been so easy or rewarding.

Download the free Zbooni app via Apple App Store or Google Play Apps

Consultation is an area in business that grows at a rapid rate. With the accelerated growth of SMEs, and public and private companies, the need for assistance in formulating strategies and receiving external advice becomes increasingly stronger with larger-scale operations. Whenever a business wants a fresh and new viewpoint on how they conduct business, turning to the expert advice provided by a management consultant would be the most ideal. Within Dubai’s domain, management consultancy has seen vast growth, with its many Fortune 500 companies making far-reaching changes across the globe.

If you have the skills that can potentially help a business thrive in its operations, starting a management consulting business may be the right business venture for you. Dubai has the ability to nurture the best talent, and business leaders would be able to focus on problems or strategies at hand and leave the external issues to be solved by management consultants.

What is Management Consulting?

In simple terms, management consulting involves providing expert business advice on managing a plethora of business activities like information technology, banking, finance and credit services or long-term and short-term growth solutions. To have expertise in management consulting, it’s important to identify the valuable skill set you uphold, which includes strategic skills, analytical skills and communication skills.

Your activities would include providing clients with an audit of their current affairs and giving recommendations for further improvement with a detailed action plan that includes the steps to achieve certain objectives. You can also aim to specialise in one area of management consultancy, where a business may not have the facilities to find such expertise internally — this is where your talent comes into play.

In Dubai, it’s vital to obtain a professional business license in order to commence your operations as a management consultant. It’s inherently easy to obtain a business license in Dubai, regardless of whether you decide to locate in the mainland or a free zone; however, documentation processes and verification is done faster within free zone authorities like Meydan Free Zone.

The Benefits of Starting a Management Consulting Business in Dubai

What are the Steps to Becoming a Management Consultant in Dubai?

The journey to becoming a management consultant in Dubai isn’t strenuous. As mentioned earlier, the key step to thriving in your business would be to first obtain your professional license in services. Here are some of the mandatory steps you need to follow to obtain your professional license as a management consultant in the UAE.

• 
  Decide business activitiesAs a management consultant, there could be many activities left for you to pursue. For example, research analysis, business proposal preparation, and issue identification are only some of the activities included in the specimen of management consultancy. During this process, you would have to specify the business activities that define your consultancy venture — this is highly important when requesting approval from Dubai authorities.
• 
  Select a company nameIt’s vital that your business refrains from choosing a company name that contains any offensive language or abbreviations. This stage requires careful deliberation, as an unapproved name from the Department of Economic Development (DED) may halt the launch of your business. As a suggestion, including your business activity in the company name, may be favourable in getting verified as a business.
• 
  Decide your jurisdictionFree Zone areas such as Meydan Free Zone are highly accessible for successful startups, and depending on your business nature, it would be the better-suited economic jurisdiction. If the business plans on catering to a wider range of consumers, a free zone license and DET permit can cater to your needs. Moreover, if you decide to launch your business in an area like Meydan Free Zone, you would receive the utmost assistance from authorities with documentation processes, and other business support services would also be available on demand.
• 
  Apply for your business licenseThis is the time to apply for a professional license detailing the services you would like to partake in as a management consultant. Authorities like Meydan Free Zone are ever ready to help with filing procedures, discussing with governmental authorities about verification processes and more. The process is quite fast, and you can expect to receive your business license in 5-7 days after your application.
• 
  Apply for a bank accountIn order to conduct management consultancy activities, you will need to open up a business bank account so that tracking expenses and cash flow from the very beginning would be easier. Contact a few banks or financial institutions surrounding your jurisdiction and arrange a meeting with them to discuss financial capabilities.

Benefits of Starting a Management Consultancy Business in Dubai

There are several benefits that you can enjoy as a management consultancy agency in Dubai — ranging from being able to enter highly diversified markets with a plethora of opportunities to low set up costs depending on which economic jurisdiction you plan to launch your business in. Here are some of the many benefits that you should be aware of.

• • Easily diversified

Management consultancy is not only limited to one certain industry but many that you can apply or transfer your skills to. You can opt for management consulting regarding marketing management, sales, market assessment, human resource management, and even areas like business process innovation. By developing a set of transferable and innovative skills, it would be possible to easily transition from one industry to another. There are many businesses looking to expand into different markets, like tourism, education, retail or manufacturing. That’s where management consultancy comes into play, where coming up with business solutions and set up instructions in your area of expertise.

• • Revenue and financial growth

With massive demand in Dubai and globally, setting up your consultancy business with a minimum capital requirement may be the best option instead of compromising on higher administration and business registration costs. An affordable set-up cost can launch your business into a strong start with more expenses that can be allocated to growing the business and employing human capital.

Also, by setting up your business in an area like the Meydan Free Zone, you can make the most of zero tax concessions and 100% profit repatriation.

• • Flexible

Working hours are more likely to be flexible as a management consultant, as you get to decide the amount of work you are ready to undertake.

Why Meydan Free Zone?

Meydan Free Zone is located close to the centre of Dubai, near the airport and right next to the international racecourse and golf course, in eye-catching surroundings and skyscraping buildings. If you choose the Meydan Free Zone as the base for your consultancy business, you will be joining many other professional consulting firms already operating successful businesses out of our premises; hence, healthy competition can be a great factor in helping you thrive.

Besides our impressive location and high-quality office spaces, launching your management consultancy from Meydan Free Zone provides:

• MOFA recognised business license.
• Quick and easy incorporation from an online portal.
• Zero paid-up share capital.
• Unlimited number of visas depending on office size.
• Company documents issued within a day with instant IBAN.
• No personal income tax.
• Exclusive community benefits with discounts.

Starting a management consultancy at Meydan Free Zone couldn’t be easier, and we have extensive experience with all aspects of helping set up consultancies here. We can walk you through the entire process, helping you choose the best business structure, supporting you with all aspects of the paperwork and putting you in the best position to make a success of your consultancy business. The industry is deemed competitive, although, with Meydan Free Zone’s world-class facilities, reaching heights in your consultancy career will be a closer goal than you’d imagine.

Contact our panel of expert consultants to find out more!

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has a rising expatriate community of over 8 million people, and a large percentage of these expats have assets in both the UAE and their home country.

This blog is for expats living in Dubai or Abu Dhabi who wish to learn more about wills in the UAE. Writing a will is part of estate planning and should be included in your own financial strategy. As an expat, you will need to discover how the will writing system in your country of residency works, as there may be numerous variances from what you are used to.

What Are the Benefits of Writing a Will?

A will is a written document that explains your instructions and preferences for how your estate (money, property, possessions, and other assets) should be distributed after your death. A will can be as simple as a remark or as complex as a document.

If you have dependents, such as small children, disabled children, or elderly parents, you must write a will. Your will can be as simple or as complex as you want it to be. It specifies who should care for your minor children or elderly parents and how your inheritance should be transferred after your death. In a difficult time, this makes settling your estate for your loved ones much easier and less stressful.

Wills do not need to be registered in the UAE because it is not required. In spite of this, it is highly recommended that expatriates living in the UAE or those who own immovable or movable property in the UAE register a will pertaining to their movable and immovable assets, including real estate, investments, and any bank accounts in the UAE. This is done to avoid the legal complications that the legal heirs may face on the death of a testator, which is the person who grants the will.

Five Primary Vehicles for Protecting Assets and Property in the UAE

If you live abroad in the UAE and own property or other assets, it would be in your best interest to establish a long-term plan to secure them. If you fail to do so, the Sharia law will apply to your estate which will limit the benefits your loved ones can receive.

It is essential to obtain legal advice when setting up any of these five vehicles. However, once they are established, and you have a long-term working relationship with an advisor with whom you can handle changes in your circumstances, you will be able to relax knowing that your UAE assets and property are adequately safeguarded.

Read on to examine the five types of protection for your property and assets in the UAE.

• 
  1. A DIFC WillThe DIFC Courts Wills Service was established to give the non-Muslim community who own assets in the United Arab Emirates the clarity and certainty they need to avoid applying Sharia law and transfer their assets in accordance with their own intentions after death. It allows non-Muslim expatriates to make wills under regulations resembling those of England and Wales and offers testamentary freedom for the Sharia law system of compelled heirship.

  You can register a DIFC Will if you are older than 21, are not a Muslim, and have assets in the UAE. To draft your Will, you will require a draughtsman who is registered with the DIFC. You can transfer your assets as you see fit by registering a DIFC Will, and the probate procedure is also quicker and more efficient than it is for non-DIFC Wills.

  

  The five primary reasons why non-Muslims should register their wills with the DIFC Courts Wills Service are as follows:

  • Your assets can be transferred as you wish

  Non-Muslim individuals with assets in the United Arab Emirates can register their Wills in English through the DIFC Courts Wills Service.

  • Non-residents and residents alike can use the service

  The registration of your Will does not depend on whether you reside in or outside the UAE.

  • A signing process that is simple

  In order to register a Will, the testator must go to the offices of DIFC Courts Wills Service located at Dubai International Financial Centre and sign it formally in front of a Wills Service officer.

  • A clear legal framework

  As in the UK, Singapore, and Malaysia, the DIFC WPR Rules are based on common law principles and legislation.

  • Streamlined probate process

  A Will registered with the DIFC Courts Wills Service requires the DIFC Court to issue probate grants and court orders for the distribution of estates and guardianships according to the requirements of the will.

  As a result, a non-Muslim over the age of 21 who has assets in the UAE would need to prepare and register their Will with the DIFC Courts Wills Service if they do not wish Sharia Law to govern the distribution of their assets and the guardianship of minor children.

• 
  02. Abu Dhabi WillsThe Abu Dhabi Wills Registry was established by the Abu Dhabi Courts Judicial Department to give non-Muslims with assets in Abu Dhabi/UAE and/or children the option to register their alternative wishes instead of adhering to Sharia law.

  The establishment of the Abu Dhabi Wills Registry is a significant step toward ensuring that non-Muslim expatriates’ intentions are accurately expressed in the documentation and registered while also providing them with the assurance that Sharia law would not be applied to their Abu Dhabi estate.

  A non-Muslim expat who possesses movable or immovable assets is able to file a will with the court that has jurisdiction over each emirate of the United Arab Emirates or with the appropriate authorities in the United Arab Emirates in favor of his or her legal heirs or anyone else they desire to name.

• 
  03. GiftingIt is possible to transfer assets and/or property as gifts; however, strict legal procedures must be followed. Although you will need to pay registration fees, the transfer fee will be cheaper. Gifting property is one of the most cost-effective estate planning tools in Dubai for inheritance and succession planning.

  In the UAE, giving property often refers to changing a name on a title deed so that ownership of the property is now in the name of the recipient. The purpose of this is to protect the property from regional inheritance laws. Gifts of real estate are given to either offshore firms or to families.

  Assets can only be gifted to your spouse or children, and no transfers are allowed between siblings. Property owners may decide to designate a property to specific family members in order to avoid the distribution that would otherwise be required under Sharia law and to make succession difficulties simpler. To prevent siblings from inheriting a property, for instance, a husband can transfer his half to his wife. After a divorce, transfers can also be used to remove a spouse from the title.

• 
  04. Placing the property in a holding company or a trustIt is possible to transfer property and assets out of your ownership and into a holding company or a trust.

  A trust is established by a settlor and is overseen by trustees on behalf of the beneficiaries. Therefore, you might create a trust to safeguard your assets and property for your spouse, kids, and grandchildren. Since a trust is not a legal body, the public cannot access information about it. For the benefit of the designated individuals, often known as the beneficiaries, the trustee will hold the trust’s assets. A trust structure is a binding contract that transfers ownership of the trust’s assets from the settlor to the trustee.

  A holding corporation is a distinct legal entity. You can take over as the company’s largest shareholder, maintaining control over the assets and/or real estate it owns. Setting up a holding company can be a smart method to buy property in the UAE because it makes your life much easier by allowing you to hold assets in a secure and private manner while reducing administration.

  It is also possible to obtain a residency visa more easily if you own property through a holding company in Meydan Free Zone.

• Register Your Business With Meydan Free Zone

• 
  05. FoundationsAs a civil law jurisdiction, the UAE allows the establishment of foundations. A foundation is a legal entity that holds assets on behalf of beneficiaries. Foundation charters and bylaws govern the foundation’s purpose, assets, and organisation. In addition to being registered as a legal entity and possessing its own legal personality, foundations have characteristics similar to trusts in that they can separate legal and beneficial interests. Foundations do not have shareholders, and through a foundation, the founder can continue to exercise control over the organisation.

  A Foundation is an asset structuring option available to UAE residents and investors. DIFC or ADGM Foundations have several advantages, including:

  • Corporation tax is not applicable
  • A strong governance structure
  • Founders and beneficiaries remain anonymous
  • Setup costs are low

Why Do You Need to Protect Your Property and Assets in the UAE?

As mentioned previously, if an individual passes away in the United Arab Emirates without leaving a will, the estate will be divided in accordance with Sharia law, where the division of the assets is fixed. They will also not have guardianship over minor children. This means a mother in the UAE does not automatically get guardianship of her children if her husband dies without a will. It is due to such situations that make it is necessary for an expatriate to have a will before they pass away.

If you’re an investor or expat living in the UAE, you can secure your assets by establishing a DIFC Will, gifting assets, or putting them in a holding company or perhaps a trust foundation. A private client solicitor can help you set up the best vehicle to protect your property while you reside in Dubai.

A global hub for international trade and finance, the UAE is home to some of the world’s busiest airports, a wealth of international companies’ headquarters, and a large expatriate population which is roughly equivalent to 90% of its populace. Considered the financial hub of the Middle East, the UAE also features several free trade zones that are attractive to big businesses, furthering the country’s economic growth. The UAE, therefore, works closely with the FATF to counter money laundering, terrorist financing, and proliferation financing as part of its commitment to protecting the integrity of the global financial system.

A growing economy, tax exemptions, relatively simple business setup procedures, and political stability are just a few of the advantages of starting a new business in Dubai. In order to make the most of the opportunity, entrepreneurs who are interested in setting up their business in “The Most Supportive Environment for Entrepreneurship”, as identified by the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM), must comply with the UAE’s strict AML/KYC Laws and Regulations.

Recent Recommendations by the UAE’s Public-Private Partnership Sub-committee

According to the National News, the UAE has proposed a regulatory approach to combat money laundering and terrorism financing, with a national committee proposing the formal sharing of strategic information and intelligence on such matters between the public and private sectors.

In November 2022, the UAE’s Public-Private Partnership Sub-Committee (PPPSC) recommended in its first draft report that strict confidentiality and data protection rules be established for such information sharing between the public and private sectors.

The committee also advocated for the establishment of a dedicated secure digital platform for such intelligence sharing. This expanded regulatory toolkit will allow private and public entities to better understand the scope of illicit money flows.

The PPPSC will establish key performance indicators for relevant task forces and working groups under its auspices and monitor progress to ensure that collaboration between the public and private sectors continues to grow.

In recent years, the UAE has implemented significant reforms to combat financial crime. The recommendations of the committee are part of a larger effort to strengthen this drive in accordance with international standards and the global AML/CFT agenda. According to the report, the PPPSC will be committed to developing new tools in the fight against money laundering, terrorism financing, and proliferation financing in the coming months.

Who Is Required to Comply With the UAE’s AML/KYC Laws and Regulations?

Domestic and international companies operating in the UAE must comply with AML-CFT legislation. Companies that must comply fall into three categories:

• 
  Designated non-financial businesses and professions.
• 
  Financial institutions
• 
  Non-profit organisations

Designated non-financial businesses and professions

Non-financial businesses and professions (DNFBPs), just like FIs, conduct financial transactions on behalf of their customers. DNFBPs typically include the following types of companies:

• • Brokers and real estate agents Dealers in precious metals and precious stones in carrying out any single monetary transaction or series of transactions totaling more than AED 55,000 (approximately $15,000)
  • Lawyers, notaries, and other independent legal professionals, as well as independent accountants, when preparing, conducting, or executing financial transactions for their clients.
  • Providers of corporate services and trusts when performing or executing a transaction on behalf of their clients
  • Other professions and activities as determined by a Ministerial decision.

It should be noted that the regulations only apply to lawyers and corporate server providers who act on behalf of their clients. These are, for example, legal professionals who manage funds owned by their clients.

Financial Institutions

All financial institutions (FIs) must comply if they conduct one or more financial activities or operations on behalf of a customer. These include:

• • Receiving public deposits and other funds, including deposits in accordance with Sharia Law (Islamic religious law).
  • Private banking, cash brokerage, and various types of credit facilities
  • Currency exchange and money transfer services, stored-value services, electronic payments for retail and digital cash, and virtual banking services.
  • Issuing and managing payment methods, guarantees, or obligations.
  • Investing in, operating, or managing funds, options contracts, futures contracts, exchange rate and interest rate transactions, and other derivatives or negotiable financial instruments.
  • Participating in the issuance of securities and providing financial services in connection with these issuances.
  • Managing and saving various types of funds and portfolios.

This list is not exhaustive, as regulatory authorities may add additional activities or financial transactions to the list.

Non-profit organisations

Non-profit organisations (NPOs) are defined as any organised group of a continuing nature established for a temporary or permanent period, consisting of natural or legal persons or not-for-profit legal arrangements.

Unlike FIs and DNFBPs, NPOs have very few legal obligations.

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Regulator of the UAE’s AML/KYC Laws and Regulations

The Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE) regulates AML in the UAE. Anti-Money Laundering and Combating the Financing of Terrorism Supervision Department (AMLD) enforces UAE anti-money laundering laws and regulations, as well as the AML/CFT Guidelines 2021.

According to the official government website, the UAE Cabinet approved the establishment of the Executive Office of Anti-Money Laundering and Countering Terrorist Financing in December 2020, with the goal of adhering to international standards in this sector. The Office will ensure the UAE’s active collaboration with companies and partners involved in combating money laundering and terrorism financing.

The national risk assessment process is overseen by the National Committee to Combat Money Laundering and the Financing of Terrorism and Illegal Organizations (NAMLCFTC). In accordance with its obligations under the Financial Action Task Force Standards, the UAE identifies and assesses the money laundering and terror financing risks it faces.

How to Comply With the AML/KYC Regulations in UAE

Businesses must monitor customer transactions, provide authentic data, and report suspicious cases in order to remain compliant with all regulations.

Meet Customer Due Diligence requirements

In the cases specified in Article 6 of the AML-CFT Decision, FIs and DNFBPs are required to implement appropriate risk-based Customer Due Diligence (CDD) measures, such as understanding the nature of the customer’s business and the purpose of the transaction.

Examples include:

• Carrying out occasional transactions in favour of a customer for amounts equal to or exceeding AED 55,000 (approximately $15,000), whether the transaction is carried out in a single transaction or in several seemingly linked transactions.
• Carrying out occasional wire transfers for amounts equal to or exceeding AED 3,500 (approximately $950).
• Suspicion of a crime.
• Doubts about the veracity or sufficiency of previously obtained identification data for the customer.

FIs are required to improve their CDD measures for customers identified as high-risk, which the AML/CFT Decisions categorise. Politically Exposed Persons (PEPs), customers from high-risk countries, and correspondent banking institutions are among them.

Report Suspicious Activity

If FIs detect any suspicious activity related to ML/FT operations, they must fulfil certain obligations.

When there are suspicions, or reasonable grounds to suspect, that the proceeds are related to a crime or the attempt or intention to use funds or proceeds for the purpose of committing, concealing, or benefiting from a crime, FIs are required to report transactions “without any delay” to the Financial Intelligence Union (FIU).

There is no minimum reporting threshold and no statute of limitations for ML/FT crimes or suspicious transaction reporting. The designated Competent Authority for reporting suspicious transactions is the FIU as determined by federal law and regulations, regardless of whether the FI operates on the mainland UAE or in a Financial or Commercial Free Zone.

Adhere to Know Your Customer Requirements

When working with customers, businesses must adhere to Know Your Customer (KYC) requirements. The process of identifying and verifying customers is known as Know Your Customer (KYC). Businesses must collect various types of documents from individual customers and businesses in order to verify personal data:

Individual customers must provide identification or a travel document, as well as proof of residency.

For Companies, an ID/travel document is required for all shareholders owning 25% or more of the company, as well as proof of UAE operating address (utility bill or other bank statements from the previous three months). The Memorandum and Articles of Association, Trade License or Certificate of Incorporation, The Board of Directors’ decision to open an account and identification of those with authority to operate the account are also required.

Why Meydan Free Zone?

The free zone is located in the heart of Dubai, close to downtown Dubai. While overlooking numerous golf courses, tennis clubs, and restaurants, the free zone serves as a central hub for booming business activity and maximum productivity. Even more compelling would be Meydan Free Zone’s affordable prices, backed up by a panel of business advisors with extensive experience dealing with practices in free zone areas and offering the best possible solutions to meet your needs.

Contact us today to get advice on AML/KYC compliance when establishing a business in Dubai.

The UAE has long been a desirable location for global entrepreneurs. With a noticeable shift away from the oil trade, investors in Dubai have been looking for alternative business activities and potential income opportunities. A major reason why so many people flock to Dubai and the UAE’s shores to do business, is its free zones. With free zones such as Meydan Free Zone, the UAE economy is thriving, with more opportunities for investment and income sources than ever before.

One of the most alluring elements of starting a business in the UAE is discovering the benefits of various business structures, particularly Free Zone Enterprise Limited Liability Companies. Read on to better understand what a free zone LLC is and why you need to start one in Dubai.

What Is a Limited Liability Company in a Free Zone?

Free zone establishments (FZEs) also known as free zone companies (FZCs) are limited liability companies created in a free zone and regulated by the laws and regulations of that free zone.

In the free zone business environment, there are two types of companies: Free Zone Establishment Limited Liability Companies (FZE LLCs) and Free Zone Corporation Limited Liability Companies (FZCO LLCs). In contrast to FZCO LLC, which has many shareholders, FZE LLC has only one shareholder.

Benefits of Forming a FZE Limited Liability Company

One of the biggest benefits of utilising an LLC company structure is that it safeguards the company’s owners from any liabilities, debt, and other financial obligations that may develop as a result of the business operations of the company.

By setting up a limited liability company in an emirate like Dubai, you would ensure that your financial investment in the company limits your liability to that amount. Creating an LLC in a free zone such as Meydan Free Zone has a number of additional benefits, such as:

• FZE LLCs allow for 100% foreign ownership. As a result, foreign entrepreneurs who control their entire business without involving a local partner will benefit from this arrangement. You will still have to enlist the help of a local sponsor, to whom you must pay a mutually agreed upon annual fee.
• You are protected from liabilities. This appears to be one of the key advantages of an FZE LLC structure. Shareholders are safeguarded by this sort of business model from potential liabilities and debts related to activities.
• You receive full repatriation of capital and profits. Businesses that operate in free zones are allowed to return 100% of their profits to their native country. It is a significant step forward to allow them to transfer 100 percent of their wealth back to their places of origin without any restrictions.
• The security of being protected from losses. This means that if worse comes to worse, you will only suffer losses equal to your investment in the company
• There aren’t any individual, corporate, or income taxes.
• There are no import or export taxes to be paid.
• Import and export duties are exempt from payment.
• Convenient hiring and cost-effective employee management. This means that you can hire the workers you truly want and will best suit your business.
• Various types of commercial operations can be conducted in free zones. As a result, you can pick from a variety of business ventures that facilitate connections with other people.
• There are numerous amenities offered. You can choose from a wide variety of facility options depending on your business setting. Everyone can find something at Meydan Free Zone, from flexi-desk areas to traditional offices.
• You can apply for 2-year UAE residency visa for you and your family.

The Opportunity for a UAE Residency Visa for Two Years

The most common way to obtain a UAE residence visa in a free zone is to obtain an employment contract with one of the free zone companies, where the employee and employer will enter into an agreement at the employer’s discretion. The UAE Residence Visa issued by a Free Zone is usually valid for two years.

Entrepreneurs who want to start their own businesses in a UAE Freezone can apply for residency in the UAE as an employee (e.g., manager, business development, etc.) or as an investor. An Investor visa is also valid for two years and does not require a deposit at the immigration office. Some people prefer Investor visas because the application process is simpler and the submission of a legalized diploma is not required.

LLC Business Registration and Licensing

When considering an LLC structure in a UAE free zone, you can choose an LLC structure regardless of your license type. You will still have the protection of a limited liability company LLC structure and will not face any liabilities, unlike a sole proprietorship, which could result in a 100% loss. The following licenses are available through the LLC structure:

• Professional License
• Commercial License
• Industrial License

Those seeking to provide services or obtain a professional license should consider forming a free zone LLC. A professional license in a free zone allows you to conduct business in local markets without worrying about debts or liabilities that might follow you.

Is an FZE LLC Right for Your Business?

With a free zone LLC business, an expat has the choice to have complete control over the company. You will be able to decide how your shares are split if you want more partners under an LLC structure in a free zone, and you won’t be obliged to hire any extra employees if it isn’t necessary.

FZE LLCs are beneficial because they provide access to local markets. You can expand your activities in the region by simply being present in the area. Another factor that contributes to the high number of FZ LLC businesses is the local sponsor’s potential value when starting a firm in a foreign country. The national shareholder will give the FZ-LLC access to regional expertise and a better understanding of the procedures and demands made by the authorities.

It’s crucial to understand that there are no protection differences between mainland LLC businesses and free zone LLC businesses. The same degree of security that an LLC structure offers will still apply to you. If you’re looking to register your FZE LLC, Meydan Free Zone allows for you to enjoy all of the benefits that come with setting up a business in Dubai.

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Why Meydan Free Zone?

Meydan Free Zone is an excellent location for establishing your LLC and gaining a competitive advantage. Meydan Free Zone, located in the heart of Dubai, is surrounded by towering skyscrapers and excellent transportation systems, and provides facilities that are sure to boost your business. Throughout the registration process, our team of experts is ready to respond to and listen to every question and request in order to ensure that the registration process is error-free.

Dubai, one of the world’s fastest-growing cities, has a thriving economy and an unrivalled property portfolio. Along with its luxury appeal, the Dubai real estate market also provides a higher return on investment (ROI) on properties than other major international cities, making it a popular choice among global investors.

After the long-awaited foreign ownership decree was passed in 2002, allowing non-UAE citizens to own property in Dubai, the city’s property market experienced a massive boom. It then enacted a new law in July 2022 to encourage the growth of real estate investment funds in the emirate.

Real estate investment remains one of the best ways to build wealth, and Dubai is now more profitable than ever, attracting investors from all over the world. Continue reading to find out if investing in Dubai property should be your next money move

Understanding the Property Investment Funds Law

A real estate fund is a type of mutual fund that invests primarily in securities issued by publicly traded real estate companies. A real estate investment trust, on the other hand, invests directly in income-producing real estate and is traded like a stock.

On July 19 2022, Dubai’s ruler, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al-Maktoum, enacted a new law to encourage the growth of real estate investment funds in Dubai. According to WAM, the law grants certain privileges to real estate investment funds as part of efforts to position the emirate as a global destination for real estate investment.

According to the Dubai Media Office, Decree No. 22 of 2022 applies to all real estate investment funds that are regulated and licensed by the relevant authorities. The Dubai Land Department (the DLD) has established a new register that grants registered funds specific rights to facilitate their investments in the emirate.

The main difference is that the registration mechanism now allows registered UAE funds to acquire and own real estate assets in areas of Dubai where foreign ownership is restricted. The fund will not be permitted to sell property assets in districts restricted to foreign ownership without first obtaining preliminary approval from the special committee.

In order to register a fund in the register, you must meet the following requirements:

• The fund is required to have a valid license from the appropriate authority.
• When submitting the registration application, the fund’s property assets must be worth AED 180 million (USD 49M)
• The fund must not be suspended from trading its shares in Dubai’s financial markets at the time the registration application is submitted.
• The Dubai Economy and Tourism Department requires a registration fee of AED 10,000 (USD 2.7K).

As soon as you submit your application, the DLD will use a valuation specialist accredited by the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) to confirm that the fund meets the requirements. This step improves the overall transparency of the procedure.

As a result, registered property real estate funds will be able to purchase freehold, usufruct, and long-term lease rights in Dubai areas where foreign ownership is prohibited.

Conditions for Property Acquisition in Areas Not Designated for Foreign Ownership

The committee will take the following factors into account for properties located in non-freehold areas:

• The property is worth at least AED 50 million in the market (USD 13.6M).
• The property must have an investment yield that meets DLD standards.
• If the property is granted, it will be in accordance with the terms of Decree No. (25) of 2022.
• Other factors as determined by the DLD.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, introduced a new law in July 2022 with the goal of regulating the use of commercial land in Dubai by granting Musataha to develop property projects. The contract can be extended for up to 50 years.

Fees for Property Dispositions

The real estate fund’s property purchase, sale, usufruct/long-term lease, and waiver of right/benefit of the long-term lease are subject to the DLD fees listed below:

Purchase – A 2% registration fee is charged when a real estate investment fund acquires a property asset and registers it in its name.

Sale – A 4% registration fee is charged when a real estate investment fund sells a property asset in its portfolio and registers it with third parties.

Usufruct / Long-term lease – 2% registration fee when a real estate investment fund registers the right of usufruct/long-term lease

Waiver / Benefit – A 4% registration fee is charged for the waiver of a right or benefit of a long-term lease.

These fees apply only to the disposition of property assets, not the disposition of property shares by fund shareholders.

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Benefits of the Property Investment Funds Law

The move comes as Dubai ramps up efforts to attract foreign investors, with real estate being one of the city’s focus sectors.

• The law encourages significant funds to invest in Dubai real estate and opens the UAE market to large capital infusions. The UAE has recently been identified as the preferred destination for millionaires looking to relocate. This initiative will further propel Dubai to the top of the list of wealthy investors.
• In addition, the new law would encourage investors and real estate funds to enter the market while increasing transparency and governance. It will help to regulate Dubai’s private development and free zones. As a result, as wealthy individuals flock to Dubai, this legislation opens up new opportunities for personal and professional relocation.
• By removing liquidity and asset management risks, real estate investment trusts should be able to attract 15% more investment while also supporting liquidity and market growth.

Why Invest in Dubai’s Real Estate Market?

The following are the factors that make Dubai’s property market appealing to international investors:

• • Higher Annual Rental Yields
    According to research conducted by the real-estate investment consulting firm Global Property Guide, the average yearly return on Dubai properties is 5.19%. Annual rental yields in New York (2.9%), London (2.7%), Singapore (2.5%), and Hong Kong (2.4%) are all significantly higher. With the rise in real estate values post-Covid, Dubai’s property market has much greater potential for even better returns.
  • Lower Property prices per square meter
    Property prices per square meter are lower in Dubai than in other international cities. According to the Global Property Guide, the cost per square meter for a 120 square meter apartment in Dubai is US $5,918 compared to Hong Kong (US $28,570) and London (US$ 26,262), New York ($17,191), Geneva ($16,467), Tokyo ($16,322), Paris ($15,867), and Berlin ($7,325). It is also significantly cheaper to buy a home in Dubai than in other international cities.
  • Zero Property Tax
    In Dubai, there is no tax on property purchases or income tax returns. According to the International Tax Competitiveness Index, the burden of the property tax rate is higher in other countries such as the United Kingdom (2.53%), France (1.70%), Greece (1.50%), Iceland (1.48%), and Italy (0.71%).
  • Safety
    The UAE is one of the safest regions in the world, making it a popular place to invest. The UAE was ranked the world’s second safest country in 2021, according to Global Finance, compared to Germany (ranked 20th), Japan (ranked 22nd), the United Kingdom (ranked 38th), France (ranked 57th), and the United States (ranked 71st). In terms of Law and Order, the UAE was ranked 10th in the 2019 Gallup Global Law and Order Index.
  • Residency Visa
    In order to make its real estate sector more appealing to global investors, the UAE government has implemented new visa laws linked to property investment that provides a fast track to residency (subject to certain conditions).

Why Meydan Free Zone?

Meydan Free Zone is a thriving, centrally located economic district with one of the region’s most prestigious business addresses.

We provide our clients with a variety of innovative investment and lifestyle benefits in a safe, regulated environment that promotes productivity. And we can assist you in joining them as well. Our knowledgeable team can help you through the entire company formation process, from registering your company name to managing your LLC license and visa applications. Speak to us today.

A business loan can prove useful in instances where you need a financial boost to jump-start your newly registered business, or require financial collateral to open up another branch and generate higher sales. Raising capital and gaining investment can be a daunting task for some newly established businesses—however, to have a smooth flow in the long-term, or your day-to-day operations, securing loan funding is a must.

With a tremendous figure of AED 93.4 billion being provided to enterprises by Emirate banks, as reported by WAM, Dubai is considered a particularly attractive location for SMEs to strategically plan for the long term and secure their cash flow. Dubai is widely known for its emphasis on creating flexible economic policies, a tax-exempt business environment, and magnificent infrastructure. With favourable interest rates and funding to ensure your business survival, UAE as a business location would be a great choice. To empower your start-up financially, it’s better to equip yourself with knowledge about this process.

Features of Business Loans in UAE

A business loan is borrowed capital granted specifically for entrepreneurial purposes. The UAE conforms to its own regulatory environment, and certain conditions apply to how Emirate banks carry out transactions. Before we delve into the specifics of eligibility and benefits, it’s important to be aware of the important characteristics of a business loan.

The new entry permits and tourist visa changes that will come into effect October 3 2022:

• Loan Amount Provided
  Depending on the type of loan you decide to apply for, whether it be an Islamic loan or a small business loan, the amount you receive will vary from AED 50,000 to AED 7 million. The loan applicant’s liquidity history and assets will be taken into account when arriving at a consensus.
• Interest Rates
  On average, Dubai’s interest rates range from approximately 15% to 26% with favourable conditions. The fluctuation of the interest rate will depend on the applicant’s credit history, income, number of loans and other financial collateral.
• Bank Account
  The business must have a functioning bank account in the UAE assigned to them in order to apply. The bank will analyse all transactions and relationships with the lender to decide whether the loan should be granted or not.
• Payment Period
  In Dubai, the repayment period for a business loan ranges from 2 to 5 years, depending on your funds and the amount taken.

Other than this, you will also encounter a minimal amount of documentation and paperwork to go through, whilst having a consultant to guide you through any doubts during the process. At Meydan Free Zone, the process of hefty documentation and applying for a business loan can be managed by our panel of talented consultants.

Types of Business Loans in the UAE

There’s a plethora of notable business loan types available that you should consider before deciding on one to quickly secure your funds

• Standard Loan
  The standard business loan in Dubai loan is granted with certain conditions such as repayments having to be made in fixed monthly installments and having both fixed and variable rates. Loan amounts can be negotiated with interest rates cordially.
• Islamic Loan
  Islamic finance is an important aspect that you must bear in mind. In simple terms, this type of financing is permitted under all conditions of Sharia law. A business loan is interest-free and instead, your business will give the bank a share of available profits. If you plan to operate in Dubai, this type of loan may be useful in reaching ethical and moral business dimensions
• Small Business Association (SBA) Backed Loan
  If you find that most of your business loan applications are being rejected, it would be a good idea to opt for this option as it is solely supported by the UAE government.

Eligibility Criteria for Loan Application in UAE

Getting instant approval from the lending institution can be a bit of a challenge unless you meet most of the crucial eligibility criteria. Banks in Dubai are quite particular about accepting a loan application, with a major focus on previous financial history and availability of funds.

Here are some of the basic criteria for applicants;

• Being at least 21 years of age.
• The business should have been operating for at least a year — this is because a time period less than that would not provide substantial proof of profit and loss statements to make sure that the business has enough liquidity to pay upcoming instalments.
• Have a proper corporate bank account.
• Effective presentation of bank account statements for the past 6 to 12 months.
• Although it varies from bank to bank, the yearly sales revenue should amount to at least AED 1 million to receive the loan.
• If your company is set up as a subsidiary or an offshore branch company, obtaining a business loan may be easier due to the diversity of operations and the need for larger funds.

Having a corporate bank account is one of many eligible requirements you need to have, and with Meydan Pay, setting up your business bank account will be as convenient as it gets. You can choose from our banking partners who have a range of foreign and local currencies to aid payments and unparalleled banking services, all whilst accessing your accounts on an interactive, digital platform.

Requirements for Business Loan Applications in UAE – Documents Required

There’s an extensive documentation process that you need to carefully follow to get approval from the bank you desire. You have to obtain the relevant business license and collate the needed paperwork to be accepted.

A general trade license is vital to operate your business in the UAE. At Meydan Free Zone, you can access a wide range of business licenses that suit various business activities, at some of the most affordable bundle costs.

Here’s a list of the documents you need to prepare;

• Trade License
• Bank application
• Passport copy of loan applicant
• Bank statements from the past 6 to 12 months
• Copy or original of Articles of Association
• Copy or original of Power of Attorney
• Copy or original of Memorandum of Association.
• Home residence tenancy agreement.
• Audit reports.
• List of employees from the Ministry Of Labour.
• VAT certificate copy

Get Your Trade License With Meydan Free Zone Today

Things to Know Before You Apply for a Loan in UAE

Before you apply for a loan in the UAE, there are some pointers regarding finance procedures you need to have adequate knowledge on. This can help you improve your eligibility score and meet other requirements.

• • Educate Yourself on Islamic Finance
    As mentioned earlier, it’s important to distinguish between traditional and Islamic finance so that whatever business transactions and credit you take adhere to the regulatory environment of Dubai. A vital point to note if you choose to pursue an Islamic loan is that paying interest is prohibited in Islamic Law. Instead, both parties trading need to share equal amounts of profits and losses instead of paying interest.
  • Credit Score and Debt
    The ability to pay the installments for the loan is assessed carefully by Emirate banks. The first step you could take is to make sure your credit score remains moderate, preferably at a score around 700-750 which would result in the loan getting approved quickly. Also, sort out previous debts like credit card bills and overdrafts to increase your creditworthiness.
    It’s also best to avoid taking several loans in the same time period to prevent Emirate banks from speculating on your ability to repay.
  • Repayment Period
    It’s always better to opt for loans with longer repayment periods so that the ease of doing business is higher. The instalments you have to pay will also be spread out over a longer time period, hence, reducing your business costs and improving your profitability in the long run.

Benefits of Applying for a Business Loan in Dubai

After reading the aforementioned information, we can gather that loan application in Dubai consists of certain benefits like;

• Assistance to prepare essential documentation – Economic jurisdictions like Meydan Free Zone specialise in helping you set up your new business with optimum ease, which includes eliminating irritating paperwork.
• Loan amounts can reach up to AED 5 – 7 million.
• Loan types are available for SMEs, large enterprises, startups and business models of all sorts.
• Flexible repayment plans and tenures

Why Meydan Free Zone?

Meydan Free Zone is located in the very heart of Dubai, burrowed in the midst of skyscrapers that give structure to the visually-abundant skyline. With gorgeous views, luxurious hoteliers, and transport links to seaports and airports—Meydan Free Zone is a hub that excites up-and-coming start-up entrepreneurs that have goals to accomplish.

It’s no doubt that every business requires a boost when it comes to achieving financial success, which is the centre point of all business decisions and future planning. Having tight security when it comes to your business’s financial health is quite important because it affects your operational risks, financial risks, marketing objectives and human resource planning. With Meydan’s attentive assistance and availability of business licenses, obtaining the desired loan amount for the prospects of your entrepreneurial goals will be an easier task.

Contact us for further inquiries!

Dubai is infamously known for its impressive take on digitalisation and technology in business over the last few decades. Supportive infrastructure and interactive consultancy services have been infiltrated by new innovations in technology whilst Dubai’s population is continually demanding digital services and products that would sweep the market. According to a study by Tech Behemoths, Dubai had invested a whopping $20 bn in IT and innovation in the year 2021, indicating that UAE plans to be an abode to business activities that focus on utilising technology.

Luxurious hotels, modern technologies and extravagant architecture are only the surface of the facilities you are bound to see in Dubai. The benefits of setting up your tech start-up in Dubai are plenty. For instance, if you choose a jurisdiction like Meydan Free Zone, it would be easier to access creative talent and lower business costs to jump-start your business.

An Overview: Dubai for Your Tech Start-up Business

Dubai attracts a large pool of entrepreneurs each year for a number of reasons, including the ease of doing business and countless opportunities afforded. With a drive to always improve their futuristic pathways and abilities, businesses across many different sectors can learn to integrate Information Technology (IT) into their processes, right here in Dubai.

Depending on which economic jurisdiction you choose, the products offered, requirements and benefits that befall you can be different. For instance, setting up your tech business in Dubai mainland requires a physical office presence to operate, whilst a free zone doesn’t. In this case, a free zone is better suited for your tech-based business, as you may be involved in activities like e-commerce trading or instances which require remote working.

As a part of a technology-infused industry operating in a free zone, your business will be able to reap numerous benefits, with UAE being a leading pacemaker of digital landscapes in the Middle East.

IT and Tech-based Activities You Can Pursue in UAE

If you are a technology enthusiast, starting a tech business in Dubai would be the right opportunity for you. With the Internet of Things (IoT) technology overtaking most of what the consumer market wants and needs, and different industries integrating technology into their products and services—the IT sector is abundant with employment opportunities and innovative ideas to pursue in the UAE.

Here are a few tech-related business activities you can potentially venture into.

• IT Consulting

This involves the maximisation of your digital skills to help out clients during a technological project. Primarily, other organisations and businesses may require your expertise when it comes to operating their plans and objectives using technology. Updates about new software, cybersecurity and analytics would be some of the areas you need to be vigilant about.

With the relevant experience and business registration guidance, starting an IT consulting firm in Meydan Free Zone will be a seamless process.

• E-Commerce

You can trade a variety of goods and services online with an expertly designed e-commerce website, great project management skills, and good technical skills. Dubai is home to a vast online market with customer segments that enjoy novel products that enhance the quality of life, hence, it would be a great idea to get your firm registered in Meydan Free Zone so that you could start trading right away.

• Software Development

Many businesses and organisations are codependent on programs that run their daily business processes. The software development industry will continue to thrive with emerging talent and innovation that is surpassed every day. All you need is the relevant knowledge, passion for coding and IT and good business management skills to get started on it.

• Selling Technological Equipment

The first step would be to engage in buying and selling technological equipment like smartphone collections, laptops, tabs, specialised computer software and other tech goods. When located in a free zone like Meydan Free Zone, access to suppliers and transport links are plenty and business operations will be smooth.

What Are the Steps for Business Registration?

The steps to setting up a tech business in Dubai are quite simple. Deciding your business activity and area of activity is the first order of business because the tech industry is extremely vast. Whether it be software development, creative designing, digital marketing or IT consulting—deciding your primary business activities and getting approval from the Department of Economic Development (DED) is vital.

By following these few steps, you can receive your business license and be a tech entrepreneur in no time.

1. Decide Your Company Name
   

   Avoid titles that involve blasphemous language and any acronyms. Ponder carefully about whether the name of your business suits UAE regulations, and if it showcases the message of your business and entrepreneurial spirit.

2. Choose a Jurisdiction
   

   You can opt for either mainland or free zone, depending on your business’s structure and objectives. Operating in a free zone like Meydan provides the benefit of better tax regimes and tech-related facilities to further improve the engineering of your start-up. Most of all, an IT business generally involves hefty costs, but a free zone such as Meydan Free Zone can prove to aid a more affordable start-up due to lower business costs.

3. Apply for a Business License
   

   You can only conduct business with the use of a business or trading license. The process involves contacting several authorities within the free zone or mainland and filling out applications whilst dealing with paperwork. At Meydan Free Zone, our expert group of consultants are more than ready to assist you with the paperwork and formalities to make sure that you receive your business license on time.

   As a tech business, all registering processes can be conducted online with the help of Meydan Pay, Meydan Commerce and other digital services provided to ease you into the start-up journey.

4. Apply for Visa
   

   If you are planning to operate from the UAE, it’s important that you apply for a residence visa concerning your employees, family, and yourself. After this process is over, you will have to go through a medical exam to make sure you can operate the tech business without any hassle.

5. Open Your Bank Account
   

   Visit banks and financial institutions to formulate payment plans and open up a bank account to track your expenses, assets and liabilities.

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Benefits of Starting a Tech-based Company in UAE Free Zone

• Lenient Regulatory Environment

Usually, a free zone allows 100% tax concessions and cost-abiding transport links that inevitably reduce your business costs. You can make use of full ownership whilst avoiding the payments of personal and corporate tax, allowing plenty of time to strategize and plan ahead with your tech business. Being involved with technology introduces a large sum of research and development costs, so registering your business to suit a more affordable structure may be beneficial in the long run.

• Room For Innovation

Dubai is surrounded by the latest technology that can aid your business in its growth. From the use of blockchain technology and quantum computing to artificial intelligence—UAE facilitates all. Applying these to your business can help sustainable growth and collaboration of businesses in the free zone.

• Good Infrastructure

Operating in a free zone like Meydan Free Zone will introduce you to some of the best amenities that will benefit your business in the long run. Well-equipped office spaces, strategic transport links and airports nearby can greatly help the logistics of your tech business. Moreover, it’s highly likely that you’d be surrounded by similar competition that will drive growth in your business.

• Easy Set-Up Procedure

Meydan Free Zone is fixated on helping your start-up launch successfully. The team of experts at Meydan Free Zone, for instance, helps business owners with registration, licensing, documentation, paperwork, legal advice and consultation on tax, all to make sure that the set-up procedure is a seamless one.

Costs of Starting a Tech-based Company in UAE Free Zone

Regardless of the size of the operation, starting a tech-based business in a UAE free zone would be affordable. Meydan Free Zone offers a variety of packages that tailor to all your needs and visa requirements. For instance, a low-cost business license will cost AED 12,500, which includes a general trade license, a lease agreement, and a choice of up to three business activities.

However, the cost of starting a tech business will depend on multiple factors. Since your business is IT-based, various costs that pertain to software development, research, and error are shared; hence the estimated cost may be understated if calculated without specifics.

Why Meydan Free Zone?

Meydan Free Zone is located in the midst of skyscrapers with everything you need to achieve your entrepreneurial ambitions. Facilities ranging from vast office space, an educated panel of consultants, and a strategic location to luxurious hotel infrastructure—Meydan Free Zone helps you unlock all the core elements to boost your start-up journey.

As a business specialised in tech, Meydan’s services of digital payment schemes, a variety of licenses and company formation services will be extremely useful.

Contact us for further information today!

Dubai is home to a diversified economy that has been practicing trade from ages. Garnering global attention with its abundant natural resource reserves, the flourishing emirate of Dubai has gone ahead and positioned itself as a predominantly non-oil based economy since the discovery of oil reserves in the late 1950’s. Oil production, which once accounted for 50% of Dubai’s gross domestic product (GDP), contributes less than 1% as of today. Throughout decades of maturing transport hubs and strategically orchestrated value chains — Dubai has opened up remarkable opportunities for the trade of non-oil products and a plethora of other commodities like vehicles, crypto currency,  aluminum, gold, precious stones and base metals.

Dubai’s favourable geographic location, taxing policies and business climate are some of the factors that have helped in positioning the emirate as one of the most sought-after locations for you to grab business opportunities through trade.

According to the Economic Complexity Index, Dubai ranks as number 24 in exports and number 22 in imports, making it one of the wealthiest of the seven emirates. The International Herald Tribune has described it as a “centrally-planned free-market capitalism” and this statement  is supported with the ever-growing commercial opportunities becoming abundant through free zone expansions and supply chain development.

If you wish to run an export-import business in Dubai, read the following article to explore business opportunities and better understand the factors responsible for growth.

What Are Dubai’s Main Exports And Imports?

The import and export business in Dubai has always been facilitated for growth with its initial focus on crude oil and natural gas. Over the decades, Dubai’s economy gradually moved away from only oil-based exports and rather strengthened its portfolio with a wide variety of metals like aluminium, gold, diamond, and copper along with other commodities. Sound decision-making regarding the market structure, market potential and demand of the country being exported to, helped the emirate to gain momentum in the non-oil trade. Now Dubai trades with the whole world and when it comes to its well- established export destinations, Saudi Arabia, India, China and Switzerland lead amongst many others.

Imports on the other hand, consist of machinery, chemicals, footwear, minerals and automobiles. With metals and textiles being two of the country’s main imports, China, India, Japan and the United States remain as its biggest import markets. Considering how Dubai is a hub for exceptional talent, technology, automobiles and delicious food, it’s evident that imported commodities highly contribute to its great economic growth.

Dubai As A Primary Location For Business Setup

Before establishing an import or export business in Dubai, it’s necessary to understand why the country boasts of an abundance of opportunities to create the perfect entrepreneurial journey. One of the main reasons is that the government and regulatory environment take measures to ensure that there’s adequate flexibility for growth that facilitates ease of business. For example, operating your import-export business in Dubai would incur lesser costs as the country has some of the lowest corporate and personal tax rates in the world. On top of that, if a business decides to locate its offices in an economic jurisdiction like the Meydan Free Zone, it will not have to pay import taxes. This will only enhance and not limit the scope of profit-making capabilities.

With Dubai being located in the central part of the world, having easy access to regional markets is a great advantage for an import/export business. A diverse yet cohesive hospitality and transport infrastructure is readily available to assist the transfer of commodities in and out of Dubai. Especially with free zone benefits, all you need to do is follow up with the relevant authorities and obtain your trading license to seamlessly commence your business activity.

Things To Consider Before Starting An Import-Export Business In Dubai

Whether you want to import dairy products or clothing or even export gold, an import-export trading license is needed to start your business. Depending on whether you choose to start your business in mainland Dubai or a free zone like Meydan, contact the relevant authority of the free zone or the Department of Economic Development (DED) to go ahead with your business setup procedure.

• Understanding custom requirements :

The growth opportunities posed by establishing your business in Dubai are plenty. Although, to avoid future challenges, it’s important to be aware of UAE’s customs requirements along with the regulations of the country which the goods are being shipped to. There may be even specific requirements for certain goods like medical goods which you need to be aware of. With a lot of commodities being involved, strict regulations being involved is not a surprise. For that reason, conduct precise research and contact company formation experts like Meydan Free Zone to guide you through the business setup procedure.

• Conduct market research :

To commence any import-export activity in the UAE, it’s important to be thorough with the export and import regime, to ascertain which countries have the best market potential, understand market trends and prospective buyers. As a business, conducting market research to see market  compatibility would result in great findings. For example, looking for options like Flexi-Desks could result in lower workplace costs, reducing overheads.

• Licensing and documentation :

Gather knowledge on stages of your application process to procure a valid trade license in order to get started easily. Free Zone authorities like Meydan help compile all necessary documents and get rid of unnecessary clutter that you don’t require. From deciding your business activity, choosing an appropriate trading name, your business location and fee payment, to successfully opening a bank account — our services are open to providing you with all the support you need. Make sure you have a copy of your license once you receive it and note that you need to obtain your visa. Read more to know about import and export license requirements.

Profitable Import-Export Business Opportunities In UAE

The import and export business investments shape Dubai’s economy in a stable manner. If you are a start-up import-export business, pay attention to arising opportunities due to attractive factors like the flexible tax policies and infrastructure.

1. Art Exports
   If creating art or simply appreciating art is an activity that you think would be a great idea for a business venture, don’t hesitate to delve into art exportation in Dubai. The emirate exudes luxury and welcomes the exotic due to its flair for the finer standard of living. So, choosing international art trading could generate profits generously. Even with the imposition of tax on fine art, the potential for higher sales is great because of the demand for luxurious and aesthetic commodities.
2. Vehicle Exports
   The automotive industry is a pivot for growth in Dubai, and with future-proof technology and infrastructure, collaboration and innovation in this sector never fails to impress. The industry offers growth in import business as much as it does for exporting vehicles of all sorts. With popular car brands like Rolls-Royce and Lamborghini being widely sold in Dubai, targeting market segments that consist of elites would generate a lot of sales. Import and export businesses in Dubai are also no strangers to catering to niches. If trading vehicles isn’t an appealing business initiative, resorting to export/import auto parts like tools could help fuel the passion of vehicle enthusiasts in Dubai.
3. Electronics Supplier
   With technology always being at the forefront of demand; fuses, keynuts, power wires, capacitors, computer accessories, and keypads of all sorts create opportunities for trading in bulk. Whilst Dubai is a bustling tech district, trading electrical appliances like cookers, ovens, smart watches, smartphones and technology-driven devices could open up many possibilities for growth in surrounding regions.
4. Precious Metals
   Growing potential for export business in Dubai mainly lies in its lining of precious metals that contain gold, silver and copper. Metals, gems and precious stone jewelry are in demand globally, and with the right marketing plan and efforts, exploring the underdeveloped markets could be helpful. Businesses in Dubai should also strive to create a sense of loyalty among suppliers, distributors and customers in order to attract repetitive purchases. Our highly experienced consultants at Meydan Free Zone can assist you through every aspect of your business setup in order for you to focus on formulating your business strategy while we handle the formalities and the paperwork involved.

Why Meydan Free Zone?

Opening up your import-export business in the heart of Dubai can introduce you to infrastructure facilities, healthy competition, gorgeous views and excellent business networks. Starting a business or trade requires streamlined processes and optimal efficiency. With the Meydan Free Zone, digitised platforms like Meydan Pay for instance, could help process international transactions faster. Even with getting your business up and running, Meydan offers a seamless licensing process whilst helping you throughout every stage of the process.

For anyone who wants to boost their business launch, the following benefits help you design your plan to suit a trade-friendly business environment –

• 100% foreign ownership
• Tax-friendly policies
• Low-cost setup
• No currency restrictions
• Surrounding facilitating  infrastructure and amenities

Setting up your import-export business in an environment such as Meydan Free Zone opens up a fantastic opportunity of growth for your entrepreneurial ambitions. If you are ready to give wings to your business idea, choose Meydan Free Zone.

If you are an already-established UAE entrepreneur with a thriving business in Meydan FZ, with products flying off the shelves, it may be time to consider renting warehouse space. Customer loyalty is a moving target, and it’s impossible to pin them down with a single trick. Keeping up with the ever-growing expectations of consumers is the only way to ensure that a business continues to thrive, and this includes order processing on a day-to-day basis.

If you have an eCommerce store or a general trading company, and you are receiving a steady stream of orders, you understand the hassle of running day-to-day operations. Renting a warehouse from a large logistics company such as Aramex and DHL helps you ensure that activities such as inventory tracking and order fulfilment proceed without a hitch.

Renting warehouse space helps you maximise distribution activities, and with benefits like scalability, flexibility, and inventory management options, you can focus on your core competencies. Renting a warehouse in Dubai represents a significant financial and logistical undertaking, so the best approach to exploring renting opportunities is to do so only after taking a number of critical factors into account.

An Overview: Why Do You Need To Rent A Warehouse For Your Business?

Dubai’s geographic location and infrastructure, in particular, make it an ideal gateway for supply and distribution, and revenue is predicted to exceed USD 30 billion by 2035. The entrance of online shopping giants such as Amazon and Noon has resulted in customers’ demand for next-day or same-day delivery alternatives. This expansion of the eCommerce sector has raised the demand for storage and fulfilment centres, driving up the demand for warehouses.

Growing businesses of all sizes have discovered the value in outsourcing their warehousing, but even small companies trying to do more with less can benefit from warehousing services. After all, additional payroll, extra rented floor space, and even increased hours spent dealing with a website are all expenses you must consider.

Here are some of the benefits of having a well-managed warehousing system:

Inventory Management

Having all of your goods in one place gives you control over all of your current products.

Improved Product Processing

Warehouses are frequently outfitted with facilities for efficiently storing, packing, and moving orders.

Meet client expectations

Complete orders more quickly with agile customer service. It can also help you avoid mistakes by keeping your inventory organised and secure. Furthermore, warehoused products can be delivered faster than those stored locally, increasing labour productivity

Reliable Risk Management

Because you can stockpile products and always have a steady supply, warehousing helps with market price fluctuations.

Different Types Of Warehouses

Public

Government or government-affiliated bodies own public warehouses, which are made available to businesses for short-term storage. An excellent choice for small businesses and e-commerce startups with limited resources, they can be used for inventory management and shipping just like any other warehouse, but the difference is that businesses do not have to bear the costs of running the operation. The warehouse owner is responsible for the purchase and maintenance of any storage machinery or software.

Private

The owner of a private warehouse has complete control over the warehouse operations. They are owned and operated by large retail corporations, manufacturers, wholesalers, and distributors, and are also known as proprietary warehouses because they require capital investment at the outset but generate profits over time.

Many small businesses that want to establish a long-term strategic presence in a specific region can invest in private warehouses. Their allure stems from the consumer access they provide. Companies have complete control over them and closely monitor all processes.

Distribution Centres

A distribution centre is a central location where goods are stored and shipped. Inventory storage and shipping management are important aspects of these facilities. Because most businesses now offer reverse pickup, distribution centres are also responsible for logistics. Every distribution centre is divided into three sections: the loading dock, the storage area, and the shipping area. In some cases, processes such as order fulfilment and cross-docking are also handled.

Climate-controlled Warehouses

Climate-controlled warehouses are used to store perishable goods that require a specific temperature. They are essential in keeping temperature fluctuations in check to ensure the freshness of goods, from humidity-controlled environments to freezers.

Bonded Warehouses

These are primarily used to store imported goods before customs duties are levied. As a result, companies are not required to pay any customs charges until the product is released, which means importers are not required to pay duties until they find customers. Bonded warehouses are a cost-effective way for governments to ensure importers pay taxes, making them ideal for cross-border trade.

Smart Warehouses

Smart warehouses are those that use artificial intelligence (AI) in their storage and fulfilment processes. All functions in a smart warehouse, from packaging to transportation, are fully automated and require minimal human labour.

Seven Things To Consider When Renting A Warehouse

Transitioning from a home-based business to renting a warehouse to store your inventory or run your operation can be a daunting prospect. Before signing a new lease, it is critical to understand what is involved, and these are key points to consider when starting a search for a new warehouse.

1. Location and access

   The majority of occupiers require vehicle access for deliveries and unloading when looking for a storage unit. The ease of this is frequently determined by location and access, which can be critical in ensuring a smooth operation. Consider local transportation links, including distance to highways and A roads.

2. Costs

   Each location’s market rental level and expectation may differ. It is worthwhile to consider several locations and the ‘quoting’ prices of comparable properties within these. Once you’ve determined what’s available and how much it will cost to rent it, consider the condition of each, the age of the building, and whether there are any additional costs, such as service or estate fees.

3. Included equipment

   When launching a new project or business, a well-equipped warehouse is ideal. If you want to expand beyond your current in-house stock management and distribution, it may be time to invest in your own warehouse equipment.
   If you only need storage, picking, and packing for a short time, consider renting a space in a fully equipped warehouse and fulfilment centre. This will lower your annual costs while providing you with the expertise of a qualified logistics and fulfilment company.

4. Room to expand

   You don’t want a lot of unused space, but there should be plenty of room to grow. Consider the ceiling height – how much can you safely stack vertically? Storing items like this reduces the square meterage required for the same amount of stock. You also require enough space to move around the warehouse safely. This includes clearly defined receiving and distribution zones. Putting these areas too close together risks stock confusion and a build-up of pallets in high-traffic areas.

5. Negotiation of lease

   Once you’ve found a suitable property, contact the landlord or property agent to express your interest and begin negotiating a lease to rent the property. When negotiating a commercial lease, many factors must be considered, including rent, lease length, rent inducements (which can include rent-free periods to allow the incoming occupier time to set up their operation), break clauses, and any liabilities that will fall on the tenant.

6. Heads of Terms

   Once you’ve reached an agreement in principle, the landlord or agent will draft a document called the Heads of Terms, which contains all of the agreement’s key points. The UAE Courts consider heads of terms to be non-binding because they have no legal effect on either party; however, it contains all of the information required to draw up the lease, which is done by the appointed solicitors.

7. Exchange of contracts and completion of the deal

   After the Heads of Terms have been agreed upon and the lease has been drawn up by the solicitors, the contract can be exchanged, at which point the agreement becomes legally binding. It is critical that you are completely satisfied with the agreement before you exchange, and if you are unsure about any aspects, seek advice from your solicitor and property agent before proceeding. The transaction is often completed shortly after the contracts are exchanged, and at this point, you pick up the keys and you’re ready to go!.

Locations In Dubai Where You Can Rent A Warehouse

When deciding to rent a warehouse in Dubai, it’s critical to understand your company’s needs and requirements. You must consider covered areas, average price per square foot, supply chain costs, material moving expenses, and whether you intend to expand your business operations soon. Your requirements will also be influenced by the need to install necessary machinery and the number of employees who will work in the warehouse.

Once you’ve decided on the above, you’ll need to pick a location to look for a commercial warehouse for rent in Dubai.

AL QUOZ

Unsurprisingly, Al Quoz is the most popular area for industrial and commercial warehouses for rent in Dubai. Being one of the city’s oldest and largest industrial zones, its popularity stems from its central location and easy access to major highways such as Sheikh Zayed Road.

Those looking for a warehouse for rent in Dubai Al Quoz will find a wide range of commercial and industrial options. The good news is that warehouses for rent in Dubai’s Al Quoz area come in a variety of sizes, but depending on the size of the warehouse you choose, prices can vary greatly.

RAS AL KHOR

Ras Al Khor, located between the Dubai-Al Ain Road and Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, is the second most searched area in Dubai for rental warehouses.

Ras Al Khor, located in the city’s outskirts near Nad Al Sheba, is a popular location for both commercial and industrial warehouses for rent in Dubai. A well-maintained warehouse for rent in Dubai Ras al Khor is available in a variety of sizes to suit various business needs.

DUBAI INVESTMENT PARK (DIP)

Dubai Investment Park, a mixed-use development, ranks third among the best places to look for warehouses for rent in Dubai. As a massive industrial zone, DIP Dubai is ideal for companies providing storage services as well as companies that support light and heavy manufacturing.

The area’s proximity to Jebel Ali Port and Al Maktoum International Airport, as well as easy access to Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311) and Emirates Road (E44), make it an ideal location for companies involved in storage and logistics.

JEBEL ALI

Jebel Ali is located near the port area of Mina Jebel Ali and has easy access to major highways such as Sheikh Zayed Road (E11) and Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311).

It is also strategically located near Al Maktoum International Airport and the Expo 2020 site. The Jebel Ali Industrial Area is a good place to rent a warehouse in Dubai for a low price. While many of these warehouses are solely for storage, there are also commercial and light manufacturing units.

AL QUSAIS

Al Qusais’ industrial areas are located near the Dubai-Sharjah border, Al Nahda, and Muhaisnah. As a result, a warehouse for rent in Al Qusais Dubai is ideal for industries such as FMCG, electronics, automobile parts, food storage, and furniture storage.

There are numerous public transportation options nearby, including RTA public buses and Dubai Metro stations. These warehouses are also near the low-cost apartments for rent in Al Qusais’ residential areas. If your company is willing to accommodate its employees, this could be a significant deciding factor.

Types Of Businesses Needing Warehouses

Once you’ve defined your business activities and obtained a trade license in Dubai, it’s time to evaluate your storage options. Warehouse or industrial space is essential and, at times, a necessary impetus for businesses looking to streamline operations and stimulate growth. That being said, the need for a warehouse is heavily dependent on the type of business you run. .

Manufacturing

Manufacturing facilities are used by businesses to produce and then assemble products/goods. It can be heavy industries such as refineries, food processing, utilities, and so on, or it can be light industries. Regardless of the company or its requirements, manufacturing warehouses must be open, wide-spaced, and large enough to accommodate the large machines used to carry out the key operations of production.

To meet such demands, businesses make use of warehouse space and functionality. These commercial spaces have an infrastructure built in, including at least 10 feet of ceiling height and multiple loading docks for heavy vehicles and trucks. Manufacturing warehouses are also outfitted with high-capacity electric power, as well as exhaust and ventilation systems.

Storage and Shipping

For manufacturers and wholesale distributors, for example, those in the retail, pharmaceutical, and eCommerce sectors, adequate space for product storage, distribution, and shipping is critical. This is where storage and shipping warehouses come into play. These are also known as distribution centres and include office space, loading docks, and power supply. Some of these units, particularly those used for storage, include climate control features to protect perishable items.

Showrooms

Industries and businesses that need to keep their products on display, such as automobiles and electronic appliances, will frequently acquire a warehouse and convert it into a showroom. Construction companies and others that deal with displaying project models to clients are known to lease warehouses to get the open space that comes with it. It enables businesses to have adequate manufacturing and storage space while also allowing them to showcase their products.

Telecommunications

Due to the high power requirements, the telecommunications industry also makes use of warehouse spaces. This industry tends to prefer properties near power supplies and prime communications trunk lines because it requires electricity to power telecom switching equipment, computer servers, backup generators, and specialised HVAC.

General Trading

General trading businesses may need a warehouse for their daily activities such as preparing inventory for shipping, inventory tracking, and order fulfilment. Many retailers choose to outsource their warehouse logistics, which is a wise decision given that warehousing is more about inventory storage than transportation and distribution. They may also choose warehouses that larger logistics companies offer for rent, such as Aramex and DHL.

eCommerce

eCommerce businesses that have outgrown their garages are turning to the option of renting warehouses. The best eCommerce warehouses not only have the amenities and expertise to provide the digital fulfilment services required, but they also allow brands to store inventory in strategic locations that are physically close to their customer base for the quickest and most cost-effective delivery.

eCommerce warehousing is more than just a place to store inventory. It is also important to store products safely and securely, to track the in-stock status of the entire store inventory, and to keep track of the movement of items.

Why Set Up Your Business In Meydan Free Zone?

Meydan Free Zone, located in The Meydan Hotel, is 15 minutes from Dubai International Airport and has convenient access to Downtown Dubai and Sheikh Zayed Road.

Getting a premier location for a business address is one of the advantages of establishing your firm with Meydan Free Zone. There are other advantages to establishing a business in a free zone, such as the absence of use, sales, and income taxes. Our mission at Meydan Free Zone is to assist companies in establishing themselves and growing into profitable businesses. Our consultants will assist you with all areas of your Dubai business setup, allowing you to focus on delivering the best products and services while making use of Dubai’s storage and warehouse facilities.

Almost everyone uses a computer, but most of us lack the technical know-how to fix a hardware or software problem. This makes computer repair and maintenance services a viable business choice for those with a solid technical background and an in-depth knowledge of computers, peripherals, and software.

Most of the time, these businesses troubleshoot and fix computer problems, but they can also set up and maintain networks, make house calls, and sell computers and computer parts.

Before you start your computer trading company in Dubai, here’s what you should know. By the end of this post, you will have all the information you need to get your business up and operational in Meydan Free Zone.

Benefits of Starting a Computer Trading or Repair Business

With so many people depending on computers, this is an exciting and rewarding field to enter.

• 1. Low setup cost:
  It is preferable if you are an IT expert or have computer repairs and maintenance knowledge. The initial expenses of setting up a business should be low as you probably already have most of the supplies you will need.
• 2. Large target market:
  You may reach a far broader audience than just computer owners. Many small and home-based enterprises do not have in-house IT teams and depend on contracts with outside providers.
• 3. Regular employment:
  It is possible to build a steady stream of jobs for your company by working with small firms willing to contract with you. Doing well for them increases your chances of being hired again and having them refer you to friends and family.
• 4. Work flexibility:
  You can decide how much or how little work you want to do each week. Your company may either be a side gig or full-time employment if you have built up a big enough clientele.

How to Run a Successful Computer Trading or Repair Business

Like any other business, a computer repair company takes planning and study to succeed. Before launching your business, here are some things to keep in mind.

Build Up Your Savings

Before dealing with your first client, it is critical to building up your finances when beginning a computer repair company. Expenses like this might include:

• Buying your equipment and tools
• Renting a storefront space
• Incorporating your company
• Obtaining training, professional certificates, and business licenses
• Various forms of advertising material, including but not limited to business cards, pamphlets, and internet adverts

In addition to these initial expenses, it is prudent to have an emergency fund. This fund allows you some leeway when you fall short of your billable work targets by using it to pay some of the costs you incur.

Create a Business Plan

A well-thought-out business plan is essential to the success of any small business. A business plan should contain ideas for starting your company and future strategies for growing and adapting. As you develop your business strategy, consider the following key questions.

• Services offered:  The world of information technology and computer repair is vast. Your business strategy should provide a shortlist of services your company will offer. Data recovery, virus removal, security updates, and system upgrades are among the most common services.
• Target customer:Choosing whether your target customers are individuals, businesses, or both will help determine how your computer repair business can meet their needs. Your business plan should describe your ideal customers and a strategy for attracting them.
• Competitors: In your business plan, you should thoroughly analyze your competitors. Recognize their advantages and disadvantages, as well as any opportunities in the market that you may be able to exploit. Note their marketing techniques and how they may hinder your business.
• Five-year goal setting: Goal-setting for the next five years demonstrates your dedication to your startup. It compels you to consider the long-term expenses and build a long-term strategy for a profitable business.
• Staffing: Hiring staff might free up some of your time to grow your company. Business plans should include information on when and how you intend to hire and what kind of workers your company will require if you expect to recruit employees ultimately.

START YOUR COMPUTER TRADING BUSINESS NOW WITH AED 1,042 PER MONTH

Market your business

Initiating word-of-mouth publicity for your new company may be a good start, but if you want to attract clients, you need a well-thought-out marketing plan.

Your priority should be making a website for your computer repair business. Utilize the website to provide details about what you do, with whom you collaborate, and how to reach you. Your website should be both professional and mobile-friendly.

SEO and SEM (search engine marketing) strategies can optimize your content and keywords to help you rank better on Google. This will help people find you when they search for phrases like “freelance computer technician” or “computer repair company.”

In addition to this, you can also:

• Conduct email marketing
• Join a business networking group
• Meet your target customers at a networking event
• Use social media to promote posts and ads

Steps to get your computer trading license from Meydan Free Zone

Getting a license in the Meydan Free Zone is a simple process. To apply for a free zone, you must complete the formalities on our website, which are as follows.

• You must submit your completed Know Your Customer (KYC) form with your application.
• Wait for the necessary government and security permissions, which typically come through within 24 to 48 hours.
• You receive your license.

Documents and costs of getting a computer trading license

Whether you submit your application on your own or via a company formation agency, you have to provide a few facts and essential paperwork, such as:

• Application form with the company name in English and Arabic
• Original leasing contract for registered office
• Permission from Dubai Municipality’s Building Department to use the office as a business address
• DED’s letter of approval for the company name
• Proof of payment for a trade license
• Passport-sized color pictures of the applicant

The cost of starting a computer repair and maintenance business depends on multiple factors. The cost of a business license from Meydan Free Zone starts at AED 12,500. You will also need to include the cost of the premises, equipment, and any other permits or licenses you may need.

To get an exact price quote, contact Meydan Free Zone. We can give you an up-to-date price tailored to your unique requirements.

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Why start a small company in Meydan Free Zone 

Meydan Free Zone provides several benefits for business owners, such as no personal or corporate tax, complete foreign ownership, and full repatriation benefits on profits and financial assets. Further, having offices in the urban-style Meydan Hotel gives you a high-end status and can help get top-of-the-line clients.

Additional services, such as our e-commerce support service, Meydan Commerce, and our Easy Payment Plans, enable you to stretch out the setup cost over a period of months and are also available to help your business develop and thrive.

At Meydan Free Zone, we believe in promoting an environment where businesses flourish and leaders emerge from the ranks of innovators and entrepreneurs. Our consultants will support you with all aspects of your business setup in Dubai, so you can focus on finding clients and growing your business.

To find out more, visit our website, or get in touch with us via setup@meydanfz.ae or 800FZ1.

The commercial license is popular in Dubai for several reasons. Trading goods and services is less expensive and time-consuming than manufacturing them from scratch and providing them to wholesalers for subsequent sales.

To help guide you with your business setup in Dubai, we have looked at the different types of licenses available in Dubai, particularly the commercial license. By the end of this post, you will have a thorough understanding of the commercial license in Dubai.

What is a Commercial Licence in Dubai?

All Dubai-based businesses must have a license. You need a commercial license to purchase and sell products and services in Dubai.

In the most basic terms, a commercial license permits you to deal in products and provide specified services. You can import and sell items in the UAE, export them outside the country, or trade within the local market. The commercial license allows you to sell everything from toys and food to packaging and electronics as long as you meet the requirements. A commercial license also covers services such as brokerage and real estate.

Activities under commercial license 

The Department of Economic Development (DED) approves various business activities under a commercial license. You can get the complete list of business activities allowed from the DED or Meydan Free Zone. Below are a few examples of commercial activities authorized in Dubai:

• Advertising services
• Automobile trading
• Beauty and baby care essentials
• Building maintenance services
• Cleaning services
• Cold storage
• Exchange and financial services
• Filling stations
• Flowers and plants trading
• General store
• General warehousing
• Home appliances trading
• Import and export
• Plumbing and sanitary contracting
• Radio, TV station, cinema theater equipment installation, and maintenance
• Rental services
• Restaurant management
• Self-storage services
• Surveillance services

Steps to Get Your Commercial License in Dubai

Getting a commercial license in Dubai is straightforward if you work with an experienced company formation establishment like Meydan Free Zone. Here are the four most important steps you need to take to get a commercial license for your company.

Step 1: Determine the business activity

To start a business and get a license, you must first decide what you want to do. You may choose from over 2,000 business activities, including those in the industrial, commercial, professional, and tourist sectors. You can view the complete list on the DED website. Additionally, Meydan Free Zone can help you decide what kind of business you should start for your new company. Depending on the nature of your business, you may require additional permits.

Step 2: Select a location – free zone or mainland

If you want to start a company in the UAE, one of the most crucial decisions you will have to make is where you want to locate it ­– in a free zone or the mainland. Both have several benefits.

Some free zones, like the Meydan Free Zone, offer benefits like quick and easy incorporation, financial incentives such as tax exemptions and no currency limits, and ongoing business support. There are several kinds of free zone licenses available.

On the mainland, you can also get a variety of licenses. Businesses on the mainland may deal directly with the UAE market and win lucrative government contracts. The appropriate jurisdiction for you will depend on the nature of your business.

Step 3: Choose your company name

Choosing a name for your business is critical in setting up a business in Dubai. In most cases, a business’s name should represent what it does unless it is a subsidiary of another firm.

The UAE has stringent name regulations, and you must abide by them. Avoid using any words that might be disrespectful or profane. Avoid well-known corporate names and abbreviations when naming your firm after yourself. You also need to ensure that the name you want to use is available for registration.

Step 4: File your license application

After deciding on the name, activity, and site of operation, submit all the papers to DED for review. Company formation and licenses happen at the same time. The nature of your company and its activities dictates whether you can receive all the approvals you need from DED.

Once the relevant authorities have authorized your company’s activity, you can apply for a Memorandum of Association, an Incorporation Certificate, and other legal papers. After approval, you may also apply for visas, tenancy agreements, and labor cards.

Documents Required for a Commercial Licence in Dubai

The documentation process of applying for a commercial licence in Dubai requires an articulate way of handling deadlines and paperwork. Here’s a list of the necessary documents for registration of a commercial licence in Dubai.

• Application form with the company name in English and Arabic
• Original leasing contract for registered office
• Permission from Dubai Municipality’s Building Department to use the office as a business address
• DED’s letter of approval for the company name
• Proof of payment for a trade licence
• Passport-sized colour pictures of the applicant
• A No Objection certificate
• Letter of intent
• Comprehensive business plan
• Details of shared capital
• Reference certificates of financial statements
• Notarized copy of Registry Identification form

Cost of Commercial Licence In Dubai

Based on a set of criteria, the approximate cost of a commercial licence in Dubai can vary. Costs can range from visa fees, residence fees, transport fees, trademark registration fees, and fees that are incurred when handling documentation and government authorities. Generally, a commercial licence in Dubai costs from AED 10,000 to AED 50,000. With Meydan’s business setup calculator, you can expect a more accurate estimate of the cost of registering your business using a cost effective commercial licence.

Benefits of Having a Commercial Licence in Dubai

With commercial licences being widespread in Dubai, there’s quite a lot of benefits you would encounter once you obtain the licence.

• Flexibility

Like mentioned earlier, you can perform up to ten activities under one commercial licence that you own. This allows you to scroll through different options that operate in the region and pick what benefits you and your business the best. You can bundle on several business activities that are similar to each other, all under one licence. For example, warehousing, storage, and shipping can be utilised in combination to support an import-export business.

Meydan Free Zone allows you to choose from over 2000 business activities spread across industrial, commercial, professional and other sectors.

• Cost- effective

Dubai has a vast amount of mainland and free zones that will aid you in cutting down your registration and set up costs. If you choose an economic jurisdiction like Meydan Free Zone, your commercial licence can be obtained with 100% of personal and corporate tax being excluded. The renewal of your commercial trade licence also incurs a lower cost in the UAE.

• Secure

In terms of opening up bank accounts or going through processes of registration, safety can be guaranteed with Dubai authorities. Also, a new business can expect active engagement on their queries about visa, bank account setup and company management.

Types of Company Licenses in Dubai, UAE

Let’s take a look at the other types of trade licenses available under the DED:

• Professional License :

The DED issues a professional license to service-oriented businesses that generate revenue from their services. Among the many companies in this category are consultancies, management services, educational and training services, and technical services such as hair salons and spas.

• Industrial License :

Industrial activities include developing and manufacturing new items from natural or artificial raw materials. A few examples are the production of fiberglass items, food industries, textiles, and the fabrication of equipment and engines, to name a few. This license also stipulates that organizations applying for it must have a locally based physical warehouse.

• Tourism License :

Tourism-related enterprises require a tourist trade license. This sector includes hotel apartment rentals, vacation home rentals, travel agencies, outward and inbound tour operators, and maritime excursions.

Differences Between Professional And Commercial Licence In Dubai

There are significant differences between professional and commercial licences which are the most sought out business licences in Dubai. Here are some of the focal points you should be aware of to note the difference between commercial and professional licence in Dubai.

• Activity

  With a professional licence, you are required to possess a unique skill set that can be employed in services like consultancy, artisanship, medical services and more. It covers any business activity that involves the provision of a service or advice. You are able to make use of appropriate knowledge and expertise in order to ensure quality and boost business performance.

  As for a commercial licence, trade is the centre point of the activities you undertake. Any good or service that’s tangible can be included under a commercial licence. You can access activities like supplying vehicle parts, renting houses, software trading, and development.

• Ownership

  Professional licence holders can have 100% ownership whilst inheriting all shares of the business. On the other hand, an investor holding a commercial licence can own 49% of shares and the remaining 51% will be owned by a local agent in the UAE mainland. Although, if you decide to set up your business in a free zone area like Meydan, receiving 100% ownership of the business would not be a problem.

• Ownership Liability

  The liabilities of companies that hold commercial and professional licences have certain distinctions. For instance, a professional licence holder has unlimited liability unless it’s decided that the company wants to be deemed as a limited liability company. On the contrary, a company that has a commercial licence will always hold limited liability.

Why Start a Small Company in Meydan Free Zone??

Located in The Meydan Hotel, the Meydan Free Zone has quick access to Downtown Dubai, Dubai Media City, and Sheikh Zayed Road and is 15 minutes from Dubai International Airport. Additionally, a prestigious business address can help attract top-of-the-line clients.

As a member of the Meydan Free Zone family, you also get access to a fully equipped Business Centre and monthly networking events. Our Business Center has a world-class professional environment and an ambience that inspires performance and provides privacy.

At Meydan Free Zone, our advisors can guide you through every stage of your business setup in Dubai.

E-commerce is booming in the United Arab Emirates. According to data from Statista, the value of e-commerce sales in the country has grown more than fivefold in the last seven years. And this dramatic growth rate looks set to continue for many years to come. If you are interested in selling over e-commerce websites in the UAE, now is a great time to get into this rapidly growing industry.

Getting your business set up on various e-commerce websites can be a little complicated, however. To be able to sell on websites like Amazon or noon, you will need to complete a number of steps, including:

• Compiling various documents required to sell on Amazon and noon
• Learning how to use these websites to maximise your sales
• Setting up your company and getting approval
• Dealing with things like storage and delivery

And this is why we developed Meydan Commerce, a digital service for companies based at the Meydan Free Zone, which offers guaranteed product placement on e-commerce sites like Amazon, noon and various other e-commerce platforms.

So, what exactly is Meydan Commerce, and how does it help you sell your products online? Let’s look at the key things you need to know about Meydan Commerce. In this article we will be exploring:

• What is Meydan Commerce?
• What are the benefits of Meydan Commerce?
• Steps to get Meydan Commerce
• Why choose Meydan Free Zone?

Here is everything you need to know about our popular Meydan Commerce service.

What is Meydan Commerce?

Meydan Commerce is a tailor-made solution designed for any e-commerce business operating from the Meydan Free Zone. The service is designed to make everything about setting up a store on websites like Amazon, noon and other e-commerce platforms as seamless and stress-free as possible. Rather than having to figure out things like product listing optimisation, order fulfilment or dealing with shipping services by yourself, Meydan Commerce does it all for you.

Starting from just AED 6000, the service offers guaranteed product placement on websites like Amazon, noon and any other e-commerce platform of your choice. Exclusively available to companies operating from the Meydan Free Zone, Meydan Commerce gives you a fast track to selling online.

We developed Meydan Commerce because we saw a growing number of companies keen to sell on websites like Amazon and noon but who were struggling with many of the technical aspects of setting up a store on these websites. Whether it was launching their stores on the sites, optimising their products or managing delivery, budding entrepreneurs were being slowed down by some of the technical sides of using these websites. Meydan Commerce is intended to give you a smooth and seamless experience selling online and means you can spend your time focusing on making sales rather than dealing with technical details such as page optimisation.

What are the benefits of Meydan Commerce?

If you plan to begin selling products through e-commerce websites like Amazon, noon or other platforms, Meydan Commerce can make the process much easier. Here are some of the key benefits of using Meydan Commerce to sell on websites like Amazon and noon.

Guaranteed listing

Guaranteed listing means your products will definitely appear on these websites when customers search for the kinds of goods you are selling

Store set up support

Our friendly e-commerce consultants can help you with the process of setting up and maintaining your store on websites like Amazon and noon.

Product listing optimisation

As part of the Meydan Commerce service, we can provide advice and guidance on how to optimise naming and descriptions of your products to ensure they appear in searches and are more likely to sell your products (in both Arabic and English).

Product onboarding

When you have new products to sell through your Amazon or noon store, our product on boarding service can support you with everything from taking attractive photographs to producing meaningful product descriptions and great product headers that entice visitors to click on your products.

Selling / vendor central management

We help you use the vendor central management dashboards to optimise your sales.

Product marketing service

Our highly experienced e-commerce consultants can provide advice on all aspects of marketing your product through your web store on sites like Amazon and noon.

Order fulfilment

The Meydan Commerce team can provide you with support services for all aspects of order fulfilment, including inventory management, warehousing, and delivery to your customers.

Amazon Prime listing and delivery

We can advise you on how to sell through Amazon Prime and attract more premium customers.

FBA/FBN approvals and shipment services

We can advise you on Fulfilled by Amazon (FBA) and Fulfilled by noon (FBN) approval, and help you organise shipments both within Dubai and the wider UAE, as well as internationally.

Feedback and review management

Meydan Commerce staff can support you with managing feedback and reviews and develop ways to improve your products and services.

3 steps to get Meydan Commerce

If you are interested in using the Meydan Commerce service, the process of applying is incredibly easy. Here are the three simple steps to follow to begin using the Meydan Commerce service.

1. Start your business at the Meydan Free Zone

Meydan Commerce is only available to companies operating out of the Meydan Free Zone. There are multiple companies registered at the Meydan Free Zone who are currently selling their products with Amazon and noon and other ecommerce platforms via Meydan Commerce.

2. Complete the application process through our customer portal

Applying to use the Meydan Commerce service is very easy – you simply need to complete the quick application form in our customer portal, and our friendly customer account teams will then review you application and reach out to you about next steps.

3. Receive your licence and begin using Meydan Commerce

Once you have your licence you can begin using Meydan Commerce right away to sell your products on Amazon, noon and many other popular e-commerce platforms.

To see how easy it is to get started with Meydan Commerce, begin the application process today by clicking here.

Why choose Meydan Free Zone?

Meydan Free Zone, located in central Dubai next to the golf course and close to the International Airport, is one of the most advanced free zones in the emirate. We have developed a highly sophisticated business environment, with multiple added value services for our customers. Services such as Meydan Commerce are exclusively available to businesses that have incorporated within the Meydan Free Zone and have been developed based on our many years of experience supporting our clients to grow successfully on e-commerce websites like Amazon and noon.

Besides supporting you with business setup in Dubai, we also provide many other essential services to any company looking to launch an e-commerce store in the United Arab Emirates and Dubai.

With e-commerce booming in the United Arab Emirates, there has never been a better time to set up your store on websites like noon and Amazon. Contact us today about Meydan Commerce and begin your journey to selling online.

The UAE is an excellent location for international trade because of its well-connected air and sea routes and developed infrastructure. These factors have greatly encouraged logistical development on a national scale. According to research from the imarcgroup, the UAE logistics market is anticipated to grow 6.49% annually from 2022–2027.

If you are an investor or entrepreneur looking to start a cargo and freight consultancy in the UAE, this post will help you better understand the industry and the regulations involved in operating in the UAE. In this article, we cover the following topics:

What does a cargo and freight consultant do?

Those in the import and export business know that the shipping industry is crucial to the success of businesses, customers, and international trade. But it is complex. The high expense of shipping, along with the complexities of marine trade, necessitates the use of cargo and freight consultants.

A shipping consultant helps individuals, organisations or large corporations ship products. Consultants must be well-versed in shipping rules and regulations. These regulations might be simple or complex, depending on the nature of the shipment and its final destination.

Most of the time, the transport management services start with a freight review project to find the best carriers for each client’s freight needs. Their knowledge of the freight market, along with the strengths and experience of their carrier network, can help them find a better way to distribute goods than the shipper could do on their own.

A freight consultancy is not limited to working with a certain carrier. Therefore, they may provide more flexibility when developing tailored solutions for their clients. There is a larger variety of options, better control, and visibility on costs as the shipper may keep direct contact with the consultants’ supplied carriers – all while still enjoying the value-added services.

Market opportunity for cargo consultants in Dubai, UAE

The strategic placement of crucial UAE ports as transshipment hubs between Asia and Europe, the growth of international trade, and the development of the UAE’s e-commerce industry have led to a growing need for logistics services in the country. Additionally, the expanding use of AI, blockchain, and other cutting-edge technologies such as automated material handling equipment and the rise of GPS- and RFID-enabled gadgets is boosting the logistics industry in the nation. Due to all these factors, the government has increased spending on modernising seaports, distribution centres, free zones, and freight terminals.

Who are the shipper, consignor, and consignee in logistics?

Logistics is the practice of organising the production and distribution of commodities to fulfil customer demand. Within a supply chain, the logistics company plans, executes and oversees the transportation and storage of products, services, and information. Within the logistics ecosystem, you will find:

• Shipper: The person or business responsible for supplying the products.
• Consigner: The individual or business identified on the bill of lading (BL) as the entity responsible for initiating the shipping of goods. In most cases, they are the ones who sell the items.
• Consignee: The party listed on the bill of lading (BL) or air waybill (AWB) as the cargo’s recipient.

What does a freight forwarder do?

A freight forwarder is a third party coordinating the transportation of goods and any necessary documentation on behalf of a shipper or consignee. Freight forwarders negotiate the best price for freight transportation by leveraging existing partnerships. These movements take place along the most efficient paths through competitive bidding and contracting procedures. The ultimate objective is to identify a carrier that offers the optimal mix of price, speed, and dependability. They will also take care of the paperwork involved in overseas shipments.

Advantages of hiring a freight forwarder 

As with any logistical service, the end-to-end process involves several variables. Here are some advantages of hiring a freight forwarder:

1. Prices for freight forwarding services vary from company to company but are often competitive. Moreover, they may provide discounts by pooling the freight of several consumers as it reduces the less-than-container freight expenses.
2. Typically, freight forwarders focus on one particular service, one kind of transportation, or one geographical area. This enables the organisation to choose which services the forwarder will manage. As a result, the business has more say over how its cargo is handled.
3. When bringing goods into or out of the country, knowledge and experience are important. Logistics companies are always up to date on the latest customs regulations. They can also process paperwork, make tariff payments, and manage tax affairs.
4. A freight forwarder’s capacity to supply trade-related services is a big plus. Services include inventory management, freight insurance, documentation, and bank paperwork.

Freight forwarders vs. freight brokers

Freight forwarders and freight brokers are two terms that are often used interchangeably but have distinct roles in the logistics industry.

The role of a freight broker is to facilitate communication between shippers and carriers. They are not responsible for or in possession of the freight. Therefore, they are not accountable for any claims related to damaged goods.

On the other hand, freight forwarders will store clients’ physical freight. They also take care of shipping the goods. While they provide the same services as freight brokers, they use their own bill of lading when transporting goods. They will also insure the cargo and store it in warehouses. Freight forwarders often do not have their own fleet of vessels or other vehicles.

Do I have to pay customs charges if I import goods to the port and export them immediately? 

No, as long as the goods don’t enter mainland Dubai, there will be no import/export tax. Some businesses buy spices in bulk, repackage them in the ports, and re-export them to different countries. So custom duties are not charged for goods that are re-exported.

Do I have to pay tax if I sell goods to companies in mainland Dubai?

Yes, goods sold in mainland Dubai are subject to a value-added tax (VAT) of 5%. Dubai has implemented a VAT on the purchase of some products and services as of the beginning of 2018. Healthcare, education, and essential foods are all subject to the VAT in Dubai. There is an excise duty of 50% to 100% on luxury items. For instance, the excise duty on energy drinks, expensive automobiles, and tobacco goods is 100%.

How do I export goods from the local market through a free zone?

Once you set up a thriving business in a free zone,you may have to consider renting warehouse space. Then the local exporter must submit a local export declaration, and the free zone licensee must file free zone bills of entry to legally import products into the free zone (FZ transit bill). They must then complete the following steps:

1. The free zone’s licensing administration places delivery orders with a licensed company.
2. Copy of the shipment’s delivery advice to the free zone
3. The relevant authorities issue an import permit for prohibited items.
4. Sales invoice from the local vendor to free zone licensee showing the total amount, product description, currency, and each item’s worth.
5. A detailed list of how each item in the shipment is packed, including its weight, packing method, and HS code.

Why Meydan Free Zone?

Meydan Free Zone is a fantastic location for setting up your company and offering cargo and freight consultancy. We have state-of-the-art internet connectivity in all of our offices, which is crucial for providing real-time logistical information on your clients’ items. Our round-the-clock availability means you may serve clients anywhere globally without ever missing a beat.

One of the benefits of opening your company with Meydan Free Zone is getting a premier location for a business address. Located in The Meydan Hotel, Meydan Free Zone is 15 minutes from Dubai International Airport and has quick access to Downtown Dubai, Dubai Media City, and Sheikh Zayed Road.

Of course, there are other benefits to setting up a business in a free zone, such as no sales tax, no use tax, and no income tax. At Meydan Free Zone, our goal is to help set up companies and turn them into successful enterprises. Our consultants will support you with all aspects of your business setup in Dubai, so you can focus on finding the best carriers for your clients’ freight needs.

Are you considering starting a brokerage business in Dubai? While the market can be very competitive, it can also be very lucrative if you choose the right industry and offer quality service.

For example, Dubai’s real estate sector is always a top priority. With continuous real estate development, property owners (both commercial and residential) are in constant need of tenants. But they do not have the time to find them. Hence they work with real estate brokers. Partnering with companies like Dubai Properties or Meydan can be profitable for these brokerages.

But brokerages are not limited to just the real estate industry. To help guide you, we took an in-depth look at a commercial brokerage, its complexities, and licensing. By the end of this post, you will have a thorough understanding of the commercial brokerage license in Dubai.

What is a commercial brokerage?

Commercial brokerage is a business activity in which a business entity (or broker) acts as a middleman between people (principals) who are buying and selling goods or providing services. They assist during negotiations and signing of contracts for the sale and purchase of goods or the provision of services and are entitled to payment under a brokerage contract.

What’s the difference between broker and brokerage?

A brokerage is a mediator for its clients in various transactions, including investments, loans, and property sales. A broker acts as a middleman, connecting a buyer and a seller to enable the completion of a transaction.

A broker’s primary duty is to solve the client’s problems for a fee. However, there are now alternative brokerage functionalities available. As a brokerage, you can:

• Carry out transactions on the financial markets for the client using the customer’s funds and acting on the customer’s behalf.
• Help traders by informing them of market conditions and delivering updates on price changes and other relevant information about trading platforms.
• Give information about other people on the market so that the client can make the right choice about how to handle the transaction.
• Funding customer margin trades.
• Safekeeping of sensitive client information.
• Putting in place the necessary technological infrastructure to enable trading on the exchange.

Brokers can be either people or legal entities. The broker acts on the client’s directions. The broker is subsequently paid, usually in the form of a set fee or a percentage of the total sale price. Some of the different kinds of brokers are:

1. Real Estate Broker: An individual that provides or offers market analyses of, lists, and negotiates the rental or sale of a property on behalf of the owner, tenant, or buyer.
2. Financial Investment Broker: Offers advice on investing, buying, or selling stocks, mutual funds, and other investment plans. They provide statistical and other factual information such as economic factors and trends and offer investment management services.
3. Insurance Broker: They assist the customer in sourcing the best insurance plans based on price and benefits. They also act as the customer’s representative when dealing with insurance claims.

How to start a commercial brokerage in Dubai

There is little doubt that a commercial brokerage in Dubai has enormous growth potential. However, getting there requires a detailed and time-consuming procedure. If you want to start a commercial brokerage business, consider the following steps:

Step 1 – Select your business activity

Meydan Free Zone offers a vast range of commercial, industrial, and professional business activities. You may only engage in the activities specified on your license. You may easily add more later on if you decide to broaden or diversify your product offering.

Step 2 – Choosing your business name

Choosing a business name is crucial to starting a business in the UAE. It is essential to keep a few things in mind while you decide. Adherence to the strict naming rules in the United Arab Emirates is necessary. As a general rule, you should not use words that may be considered blasphemous or disrespectful. You must also ensure that the name you want is available and not already in use.

Step 3 – Applying for your trade license

Your next step should be to apply for a business license. The licensing procedure in Meydan Free Zone is digital, saving time and effort. The platform combines licensing with compliance and regulation, including UBO, ESR, and AML. As part of this procedure, you will need to provide the following documents:

• Passport copy
• A digital passport size photo
• Emirates ID copy (if applicable)
• Residence visa copy (if applicable)

Step 4 – Applying for your visa

To live in the country, you will require a resident visa. The visa application procedure is as follows:

• Getting an entry permit
• Changing your status
• Taking a medical exam
• Getting your Emirates ID and visa stamp

You may submit visa applications for your employees and family members simultaneously with your visa application.

Contact one of Meydan Free Zone’s business setup managers if you have any questions about the prerequisites. We can assist you in setting up your company as quickly as possible while keeping you completely compliant.

Cost of a commercial brokerage license in Dubai

The cost of starting a commercial brokerage license depends on multiple factors. They include license and visa fees, personnel and insurance costs, and the location of your office. A commercial brokerage license starts from AED 12,500.

To get an exact price quote, contact Meydan Free Zone. We can give you an up-to-date price tailored to your unique requirements.

How to grow your commercial brokerage business

Business success often requires adjusting to new circumstances. However, development and expansion are essential to a company’s continued success in today’s competitive and ever-changing business environment. There are various methods to build your UAE company; the best one will depend on your type of business, resources, timelines, and cash. Here are three that you can consider:

Establish an alliance

To grow rapidly, aligning with other companies that provide complementary products or services might be beneficial. Partnerships between businesses are a great way to expand into untapped areas. Furthermore, a well-placed collaboration might provide you with immediate access to new clients. However, a partnership’s primary goal does not need to be market entry. Partnerships may provide finance, technology, manufacturing methods, and many other benefits.

Target new markets

While your present niche market is thriving, you might consider exploring further opportunities. You can expand into new markets by capitalising on your established brand recognition. Start researching different locations to identify potential customers for your service.

Mergers and acquisitions (M&A)

There is a possibility that a merger would help your company increase its market share. Start by evaluating what businesses are comparable to yours. Find out what you can gain by merging forces or making the acquisition. Then analyse your cash flow and financial resources carefully. Next, recruit the most qualified personnel for accounting, marketing, and operations teams. Put together the best group of leaders to help create a plan of action and benchmarks for success.

Why start your business at Meydan Free Zone?

At Meydan Free Zone, our goal is to help set up companies and turn them into successful enterprises.

An added benefit of opening a company with Meydan Free Zone is getting a premier location for a business address. Located in The Meydan Hotel, Meydan Free Zone is 15 minutes from Dubai International Airport and has quick access to Downtown Dubai, Dubai Media City, and Sheikh Zayed Road. Furthermore, a prestigious business address presents a high-end status and can help get top-of-the-line clients.

Being a member of the Meydan Free Zone family, you also have access to a fully equipped Business Centre and monthly networking events. Our Business Centre has a world-class professional environment and an ambiance that inspires performance and provides privacy. In addition, you can take advantage of our exceptional offers for F&B and stay at The Meydan Hotel if needed.

Our consultants will support you with all aspects of your business setup in Dubai, so you can focus on finding clients and growing your business.

Dubai is among the top five worldwide cities for entrepreneurs. In addition to being a global centre of innovation and wealth, Dubai’s strategic international location provides quick access to a wide variety of potential markets. However, establishing any company requires careful preparation, critical financial choices, and a number of necessary legal steps.

Here’s what you need to know before starting a small business in Dubai. We cover everything from steps to forming to scaling once your company is successful. By the conclusion of this post, you will have a detailed understanding of how to proceed with your company formation in Dubai.

In this article, we cover:

• Steps to start a small business in Dubai
• How to scale a small business in Dubai, UAE
• The five stages of a small business
• Why start a small company in Meydan Free Zone?

Steps to start a small business in Dubai

To help you get your business up and running as quickly and efficiently as possible, here are a few essential steps to follow:

1. Start with market research: Market research tells you whether your company concept has potential. It is a means to learn more about the people who could do business with you and the companies already established in your region. Find a way to put that knowledge to use for your company.
2. Write a business plan: An organization cannot get off the ground without a solid business strategy. It is a guide on starting, running, and growing your company. It will help you persuade potential clients and investors that doing business with you is a smart decision.
3. Choose a business structure: Dubai has two economic jurisdictions, the mainland and the free zone, each with its own commercial and business regulations. Consider the kind of company you are running, the proximity to your target market, and the location of your physical office when making your jurisdiction selection.
4. Choose your business name: Choosing the right name is tricky. You need one that accurately represents your company’s values and culture. Also, you should check to see whether the name you have chosen for your company is available.
5. Register your business: Getting a licence in the Meydan Free Zone is simple. To apply for a free zone, you must complete the formalities on our website, which are as follows.

• You must submit a completed Know Your Customer (KYC) form along with your application.
• Wait for the necessary government and security permissions, which typically come through in 24 to 48 hours.
• Youreceive your licence.

How to scale a small business in Dubai, UAE

Most businesses put all their efforts into staying afloat during their first years. However, prioritising your business’s growth is one of the best methods to ensure its longevity and contribute to your economic well-being and financial future. There is no magic recipe for success, but you may expand your firm using a variety of approaches.

Focus on social media

Building a presence on every major social media site is one way to expand your brand. An active presence on the most popular social media sites (Instagram, Facebook, Twitter) makes it easier for prospective customers to discover you. Providing your audience with a more engaging experience results in them spreading the word about your company to their friends.

Participate in trade shows

Maintaining a high profile at regional trade shows is an excellent way to expand your customer base and gain credibility as an industry expert.

When you exhibit at a trade show, you will likely meet potential customers interested in your offer. This lets you directly advertise to a broad set of target customers. Trade shows also let you talk to people in person, which makes it easier to connect with potential customers and sell to them. Another benefit of a trade show is meeting and networking with other company representatives. This may lead to exciting new partnerships, marketing efforts, and possibilities.

Attend networking events

When you attend a networking event, you may meet new people who share your interests and values and may also have helpful ideas for expanding your company. Participating in networking events may result in valuable contacts and partnerships that can last for years.

The five stages of a small business

Small businesses vary greatly in how big and fast they can grow. Their autonomy, unique structures, and management philosophies set them apart. However, upon closer inspection, it is clear that they all face the same five stages that a small business goes through.

1. Existence

As a startup, your biggest challenges are probably customer acquisition and fulfilling client orders. The business structure is pretty straightforward: the owner handles everything and works in the trenches with the employees (if any). Systematisation and strategic organising are mostly deficient or nonexistent as the company’s primary goal is survival. As the business owner, you are the company since you provide most of the firm’s energy, direction, and finance.

2. Survival

By getting to this point, your business has shown that it can work as a business. It has a sizable client base that it can reliably serve by providing goods or services that meet or exceed their expectations. As a result, the primary objective is to stay in business, and your name is still associated with the company. The structure remains simple: you may have a few managers who don’t make the big decisions but follow your directions. There is some systems development, and a formal plan is little more than a cash flow projection.

3. Success

At this time, you must decide whether to grow the firm or maintain its steady and lucrative support for other activities. The desire to create new businesses or focus on hobbies and other interests outside of work may drive you to disconnect from the company.

4. Take-off

In this stage, your primary concerns are how to develop quickly and fund it. As such, the following areas of delegation and money raise the most pressing concerns. To what extent can you distribute authority to others to boost management efficiency in a rapidly expanding, more complicated business? Will there be enough to meet the need for growth and maintain cash flow without poor spending controls or impatient owner investments? This is a critical juncture for every business. Your company may succeed if you address its financial and management obstacles. If not, it can often be sold for a profit if you quickly realise your limits.

5. Resource maturity

Companies in stage five have the resources to devote time and effort to comprehensive strategy and operational planning. The administration is decentralised, well-staffed, and led by seasoned professionals. And there are elaborate and well-developed mechanisms in place. Both your personal finances and the company’s operations are kept entirely separate.

Why start a small company in Meydan Free Zone?

At Meydan Free Zone, we believe in promoting an environment where businesses flourish and leaders emerge from the ranks of innovators and entrepreneurs.

Meydan provides several benefits for business owners. One such advantage is getting a premier location for a business address. With offices in the urban-style Meydan Hotel, you can view the world-famous Meydan horseracing track while you work. Additionally, a prestigious business address presents a high-end status and can help get top-of-the-line clients.

Of course, there are other benefits to setting up a business in Dubai’s premier free zone, such as no personal or corporate tax, complete foreign ownership, and full repatriation benefits on profits and financial assets. Additional services, such as our e-commerce support service, Meydan Commerce, and our Easy Payment Plans, enable you to stretch out the setup cost over a period of months and are also available to help your business develop and thrive.

Our consultants will support you with all aspects of your business setup in Dubai, including scheduling medical biometrics, Emirates ID registration, or opening your business bank account.

Are you thinking of starting a marketing agency in Dubai? The United Arab Emirates’ biggest city and commercial center is an ideal place to start a marketing agency, helping promote brands in the many industries that call the emirate home.

To start a marketing agency in Dubai, it is usually a requirement to have a background in marketing. You will need to know all about modern marketing theories and techniques, including digital marketing, content marketing, social media, and influencer marketing, as well as more traditional methods – such as public relations and advertising.

Benefits Of Starting A Marketing Agency In Dubai

Starting a marketing agency in Dubai can be very appealing if you have knowledge and expertise in the marketing profession. Here are just some of the top reasons for starting a marketing agency in the emirate:

WHY YOU SHOULD START A MARKETING AGENCY

• Demand For Marketing Services On The Rise
• Skilled Labour Force
• Low Or No Tax

Demand for marketing services on the rise: According to data from Statista, marketing spending across the MENA region has increased massively over the past decade, with digital ad spending, in particular, rising fast. This suggests that businesses in Dubai understand the importance of modern marketing methods very well and are willing to spend money with marketing agencies who can advise them on how best to promote their products and services.

START YOUR MARKETING AGENCY NOW WITH AED 1,042 PER MONTH

Skilled Labour Force: Dubai is a global talent hub, with many of its highly educated citizens bringing invaluable expertise in things like data analytics, search engine optimization, or graphic design. This means you won’t have to search hard for skilled staff.

Low Or No Tax: Dubai is a business-friendly jurisdiction, and it offers very low tax or 0% tax rates for companies setting up in the city. If you set up in a free zone such as Meydan Free Zone, you will pay 0% income tax, retain 100% foreign ownership of your business, and are free to withdraw your funds whenever you wish.

Steps to Get a Marketing Company License

To start a marketing agency in Dubai, you must get a license. The following five steps show how you can get this essential paperwork.

• 1. Select your Business Activity
  Your first step in starting a Dubai marketing agency is to select the most appropriate business activity for your company. There are several possible license types you could apply for, depending on the kind of marketing you would like to do.

  For example, you may need to apply for a digital marketing license, an advertising agency license, and a graphic design license if you hope to offer all these marketing services. You can apply for licenses for all the business activities you wish to take part in. At Meydan Free Zone, our business setup consultants can advise you on the most appropriate license for your marketing agency idea.

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• 2. Choose a Trade Name for your Marketing Agency in Dubai
  As with all businesses in the United Arab Emirates, you must choose a trading name that complies with certain rules. Your marketing agency name needs to describe what your company does, and avoid using language that could be considered offensive or blasphemous. Also, you cannot use your initials in the brand.
• 3. Choose the Location of your Dubai Marketing Agency
  Selecting a business location is vital in launching your marketing agency in Dubai. Many marketers choose to launch from Meydan Free Zone because it offers a 0% tax rate and 100% foreign ownership. Our location in central Dubai, close to the central business district, airport, and many retail and hospitality companies, mean you won’t have to travel far for meetings with potential clients.

  We can advise you on setting up your free zone company at Meydan Free Zone and provide the support you need to ensure your marketing agency gets off to the best possible start.

• 4. Complete your Application and Pay the Fees
  To get your marketing agency license in Dubai, you will need to complete your application form and provide a range of documents and paperwork. Paying the associated fees as part of your business license application is also essential.
• 5. Receive your License and Open a Business Bank Account
  It typically takes a few days for your Dubai marketing agency license to get approved – as long as all your paperwork is in order and your application form and fees are all correct. At Meydan Free Zone, we help you by checking that all your paperwork meets the requirements so that you avoid any unnecessary admin issues.

  GET A QUOTE NOW FOR YOUR MARKETING AGENCY COSTS

  Once your license has been approved, the final step is to open a business bank account, so you can make and receive payments from your marketing agency’s customers. Meydan Pay is our simple digital banking solution for businesses working in our free zone. It gives you an IBAN and digital wallet, which comes with all the features you need to start making and receiving payments from customers in the UAE and internationally.

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Cost of a Dubai Marketing Company License

Calculating the exact cost of your Dubai marketing company license will depend on how many visas you apply for as part of your application. If no visas are required, starting a marketing agency in a Dubai-free zone can cost as little as AED 12,500. If you need more visas, the application fee costs up to AED 23,600 (for six visa allocations). This figure includes your business license and associated fees.

For a quote tailored to your business and the number of visas, you need to apply for, contact Meydan Free Zone today.

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Why Meydan Free Zone?

Meydan Free Zone, located in central Dubai, is the perfect place to launch a marketing agency in Dubai. Our free zone is close to the central business district, hotels, and tourist sites, so you will be ideally located to meet your customers, whatever industry they are operating in.

Running a marketing agency is all about relationships, and Meydan’s location by the golf course and racecourse makes for an excellent and comfortable place to run business meetings from. Our free zone operates 24 hours per day and comes with high-quality internet connections and all the technical support and assistance you need to run a modern marketing agency – it’s no surprise that numerous other marketing agencies already call Meydan home. Our experienced consultants can support you with all aspects of business setup in Dubai, which means you can focus on starting your marketing agency – and leave the hard work to us.

We also provide several additional services to any company looking to enter the marketing industry in Dubai. For example, Meydan Pay provides you with a digital wallet and an IBAN, which allows you to receive payments from your customers anywhere in the world. Learn more about Meydan Pay here.

Similarly, Meydan Commerce is a unique offering that aids your marketing agency in helping customers sell products via e-commerce websites like noon and Amazon. This can be useful if you are working in the B2C marketing sector. And, if you are starting, our Easy Payment Plans allow you to spread the cost of launching your Dubai marketing agency over several months.

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With demand for marketing services rising across the United Arab Emirates, now is a fantastic time to start a marketing agency in Dubai. Contact Meydan Free Zone today, and begin promoting your customers’ brands!

To find out more, visit our website, or get in touch with us via setup@meydanfz.ae or 800FZ1.

Starting a mini supermarket in Meydan, Dubai, can be a great option for entrepreneurs who know the grocery trade inside out. Meydan is a centrally located neighbourhood, where thousands of people live, work and play. It is currently underserved by the supermarket and mini market sector, which means that launching your supermarket business in this district could give you a fantastic foothold into this affluent and thriving neighbourhood.

So, how do you go about starting a mini supermarket in Meydan, Dubai?

Benefits Of Starting A Mini Supermarket In Meydan, Dubai

Starting a mini supermarket in Meydan, Dubai benefits entrepreneurs who understand the grocery trade. Although the grocery sector is highly competitive, there is space for this sector to grow in Meydan.

Some of the benefits of starting a mini supermarket in Meydan

Large, under-served population: According to the most recent data, the population of the Nad Al Shibba First neighbourhood surrounding Meydan Free Zone is 6,056 people plus another ~7,000 in surrounding areas. There are also thousands more people who travel into Meydan Free Zone for work, travel and leisure. At the same time, however, there are just four or five mini supermarkets serving this entire population – so a well-targeted new grocery business could be very beneficial to the community.

Meydan is a destination: Not only is Meydan a wonderful place to live and work, but it is also a destination in itself. With the racecourse, golf course, hotels, and many other shopping amenities nearby, there is a good chance that many people would also like to do their food shopping in the neighbourhood.

Well connected for distribution: Meydan is located close to the centre of Dubai and major highways. This means that it will be quick and easy for you to receive deliveries from various warehouse distribution centres and wholesale companies around the city and the wider UAE.

Steps To Start A Mini Supermarket In Meydan, Dubai

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1. Select your business activity

The first step to launching your Meydan mini supermarket is to select your business activity. You can choose from thousands of business activities in Dubai, but for mini supermarkets, you will need to choose the Grocery License activity. Also, if you plan to sell any related goods, such as cosmetics, you will need the related license too.

2. Choose A Trade Name For Your Business

Your trading name must clearly describe what your supermarket does (‘Meydan Stores’ may be seen as too vague, whereas ‘Meydan Mini Market’ would usually be fine). It would help if you were careful not to include any terms that could be considered offensive or potentially blasphemous. Also, the brand cannot involve any acronyms with your name.

3. Choose Your Business Location

Choosing a business location is vital in starting your mini supermarket business. Many companies choose to base themselves in the Meydan Free Zone because it offers a 0% tax rate and 100% foreign ownership. In addition, our location in Meydan means you’ll be able to run the store locally and minimise travel time.

We can advise you on starting a free zone-based mini supermarket at Meydan Free Zone and provide the help you need to make your business a success.

4. Complete Your Application And Pay Fees

To receive your Grocery License in Meydan, you must complete your application form and provide a range of documents and paperwork. Paying the associated fees as part of your grocery license application is also essential.

5. Receive Your License And Open A Business Bank Account

Receiving your license to run a supermarket business in Meydan takes just a few days – so long as all your paperwork is in order and your application form and fees are all correct. At Meydan Free Zone, we can verify that all your paperwork meets the requirements and avoid any unnecessary admin errors.

Once your license has been approved, the final step is to open a business bank account so you can make and receive payments – Meydan Pay is our simple digital banking solution for businesses working in our free zone. It gives you an IBAN and digital wallet which comes with all the features you need to start making and receiving payments.

This five-step process to starting a grocery business in Meydan normally takes no more than a few days.

Calculate your Grocery License Costs Now

Cost Of A Meydan Mini Supermarket License

The cost of a mini supermarket license in Meydan, Dubai, will depend on the number of visas you are applying for as part of your application. If no visas are required, your license application can cost as little as AED 12,500. For up to six visas, it will cost AED 23,600. This figure includes your business license and associated fees.

For a quote tailored to your business and the number of visas you require, contact Meydan Free Zone today and we can give you a precise figure for how much your mini supermarket trading license will cost.

Why Meydan Free Zone?

If you would like to open a mini supermarket in Meydan, choosing Meydan Free Zone as your headquarters makes a lot of sense. You’ll be ideally located to provide groceries to the thousands of people living close to the free zone, as well as the many businesspeople who work here, tourists staying at the hotels, or people visiting the racecourse and golf course. What is more, you’ll get all the benefits of our free zone businesses:

• 0% tax
• 100% foreign ownership
• No share capital requirements
• 24/7 office facilities
• Exclusive community benefits

When you choose to base yourself at Meydan Free Zone, our highly experienced consultants can support you with all aspects of business setup in Dubai. This means you can focus on starting your mini supermarket business – and leave the paperwork to us.

We also provide several additional services that are very helpful to any company looking to launch a mini supermarket business in Meydan. For example, Meydan Pay provides you with a digital wallet and an IBAN, which allows you to make and receive payments – vital for purchasing wholesale and receiving in-store payments. Learn more about Meydan Pay here.

We also offer an Easy Payment Plan, which means you don’t need to pay the full up-front fee today – we offer easy instalment payment plans. Meydan allows customers to pay and upgrade the number of visas only when they needed. This saves entrepreneurs a lot of money.

With a clear opportunity for mini supermarket businesses in Meydan, now is an excellent time to launch a grocery business in Meydan, Dubai. Contact Meydan Free Zone today to begin the process of launching your exciting new grocery business!

With globalisation at the forefront of the business world, entrepreneurs around the world have recognised that creating an international presence is important. Expanding your business into several countries can significantly improve your access to key markets. Dubai especially is a bustling market that is tech-driven with the best commercial opportunities.

As of the latest in 2021, the number of foreign companies set up in Dubai have increased by 3.5% since the previous year— and with the numbers continually increasing, branch offices in Dubai certainly have a brighter future.

When a branch of an existing business is established, a legal entity within the free zone or mainland is created that inherits the original business’s entire legal formation and organisational structure.

Foreign companies hoping to open up a branch office in Dubai have the ability of holding 100% ownership over the branch and its profits whilst carrying out the same business activity as the parent company. Key benefits like this help the parent company to focus on their end of the bargain, whereas the branch office in Dubai can reach soaring heights. To make this possible, it’s important to decide your preferred jurisdiction—mainland, or a freezone. With the help of relevant authorities like Meydan Free Zone, important documentation and business setup processes would be handled effectively.

How to Start a Branch Office In Dubai : A Step By Step Procedure

There are many reasons why a company would want to open a branch office.

One of the primary reasons is maintaining the company’s operating history and age, keeping the name of the parent company, and making it simple for an established business to continue running in a different economic jurisdiction.

A branch office is basically a legal extension of its parent company. It is 100% owned by the parent company, operates under the same name, organizational structure and conducts the same business activities. It is important to note that in order to commence business as a branch office, it is required to adhere to certain statutory guidelines. There are a few simple steps to register a branch of a company in the Dubai mainland or free zone:

1. 1. Secure Business Premise and Consultant

Companies prefer to locate in the mainland or free zone area like Meydan which offers benefits like 100% exclusion from taxes and full foreign ownership. Apart from helping out with branch registration, employment visas, setup costs, and license applications and relevant authorities, the consultants at Meydan Free Zone could support you with everything your branch office requires.

1. 1. File An Application

Meydan Free Zone simplifies the whole application process for companies wishing to open a branch within its premises. All they need to do is register on its award-winning portal which allows end-to-end application, permission and transactions. They have a 100% paperless environment that has been recognized by Global Business Outlook (GBO) as the ‘Best 100% Digital Free Zone’ in the UAE.

1. 1. Get Your Trade License

At this stage, you can compile all the necessary documents of the parent company attested and submit them to DED. Depending on the parent company’s business activity, obtaining DED approval would be easily determined. Meydan Free Zone would resolve and verify all your paperwork and documentation, in order to make sure receiving your trade license is first priority. Once you receive it, you can freely commence business operations in your branch office.

1. 1. Open A Bank Account

Submit all necessary documents and receive bank consultation to open up your bank account and go ahead with any necessary transactions.

1. 1. Register With Commercial Authorities

The final step guarantees verifying your branch office’s position in the market. Authorities like the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry, require registration and here onwards, you can start your business activity.

For the initial setup of a branch office, the following documents are required;

1. • Copy of parent company’s Trade License
   • Certificate of Incorporation
   • Audited statements of the past year/years (if not a start-up)
   • Notarized Memorandum of Association of parent company
   • Notarized Board Resolution of parent company
   • Certificate of Incumbency
   • Passport copies of manager/owner/director
   • Proof of a tenancy contract
   • Power of Attorney
   • Share certificate

Types of Branches You Can Operate In UAE

The UAE has two main economic jurisdictions to set up your business in—either a branch office in the mainland or a free zone. The difference between the two is quite straightforward. For instance, a business that chooses to operate in a free zone, may be subjected to the licensing and registration requirements posed by the free zone authority, whilst mainland setup is governed by the UAE’s requirements.

If you decide to set up your branch office in the free zone, there is a zero capital requirement, allowing lower expenditure for setup costs in addition to reducing financial risks in the future. When operating in a free zone, the branch office in Dubai can access the local market due to the given permission of trade.

Meydan Free Zone offers easy bank setups and compliance with regulatory requirements. For instance, Meydan Pay provides instant banking solutions that make payment processing easier along with free zone benefits. It is possible to access a wide range of customers through both mainland and free zones, although with the nurturing business environment of a free zone, trading with the local customers would be more opportune.

Benefits of Opening A Branch Office

Foreign companies can successfully set up their businesses by embracing Dubai’s tax-free and low-cost environment. Here are some of the benefits from opening up a branch office in Dubai.

1. Low-cost entry to the market

Considering the minimum capital requirement, tax flexibility and scalable infrastructure, branch offices can operate with lower costs more efficiently. Setups only consist of standard fee, application fee, and deposits. With Meydan Free Zone, you can calculate your setup costs with ease and scale your trade license amongst many factors, such as visa requirements among others.

2. Favourable business environment

The thriving emirate of Dubai boasts a 0% corporate tax on profits earned by branch offices of foreign companies, meaning all your profits are retained without any deductions, allowing the parent company to largely benefit from this. Along with the luxurious hotels and amenities available all around, your business will definitely be considered all the more attractive.

3. Cost-effective

Rather than setting up a new company as a whole, opening up branch offices could incur lower costs than expected. For example, the costs allocated to auditing will be reduced as the branch office can handle and track their transactions, which would also be legally liberating. In addition to this, opening up another branch is significantly less costly than going to lengths of launching a new company.

4. Strategic location

As discussed earlier, the branch office can be established in either mainland or a freezone, and per the requirements of the shareholders and company memorandum, the business can be set up just about anywhere. Dubai mainland is prone to offering lower rent costs, and with many other businesses operating around you, competition and lower operational costs will act as cost-efficiency drivers. On the other hand, free zone areas deliver a plethora of benefits that include its diversified transport links for better supply chain, technology-infused infrastructure and processes which will gradually lead to a lower set-up cost.

At Meydan Free Zone, the bustle of the city centre and close proximity to the airport, definitely allow easier access to transport systems and ease for employees to travel to offices for work. Not to mention, the speedy access to regional markets and different countries opens up a lot of room for growth potential.

How Much Does It Cost To Open Up a Branch Office?

Calculating the specific set up cost for a branch office varies depending on the type of business you run, business activity of the parent company, as well as the number of employees. In comparison to a local business, a branch office incurs more set up costs because of the bulkier registration process. At Meydan Free Zone, a new business with no visas required starts at AED 12,500 minimum, while companies that need up to six visas amount to a fee of AED 23,600.

Why Meydan Free Zone?

Meydan Free Zone is located at the centre of Dubai within the luxurious Meydan Hotel, just six kilometres from the Dubai International Airport. The area acts as a great base for international operations where the business is surrounded by a plethora of useful facilities and amenities such as dining, entertainment, a talented pool of human capital, and of course, futuristic technology.
The following benefits will ensure a smooth registration and onboarding process to finally launch your branch office:

• 100% foreign ownership
• Capital repatriation without restrictions
• 100% exclusion from corporate and personal tax
• Easy bank account setup
• Less costly business setup
• Different types of licenses (professional license, commercial license, industrial license)

With rewarding advantages such as the aforementioned, our supportive and knowledgeable consultants are more than ready to help you throughout every stage of your registration process to ensure the successful launch of your branch office in Dubai.

Cyber security is a major challenge for companies in the United Arab Emirates. Recent research reveals that a shocking 82% of businesses face at least one cyber-attack per year. In response to this issue, the government has announced plans to develop a new cyber security standard for government ministries, which will be backed by significant investment. So, if you have experience in the cyber security industry, launching a cyber security business in Dubai would give you access to a market where your skills are in high demand.

There is no doubt that cyber security is a priority for businesses in the UAE. One recent study found that half of the firms are currently reviewing their cyber security strategy, and 69% say their budget for cyber security will increase by 11% or more in the next two years. Experts who know how to configure cyber security settings, offer training and prevent malicious attackers from entering company systems will not struggle to find customers.

What Is The Best Way To Start A Cyber Security Business In Dubai, UAE

Let’s learn more about how to start your cyber security business in Dubai, UAE.

Benefits Of Starting A Cyber Security Business In Dubai, UAE

If you have the skills and experience to run a cyber security consultancy or training business, launching in Dubai will bring some serious benefits:

• High Demand: As noted above, both public and private sector organisations in the UAE are currently planning to expand their investments in cyber security protections and training. This means that your businesses and services will constantly be in demand.

• Low or No Tax: Dubai is a famously business friendly jurisdiction and offers fantastic perks to innovative businesses. And in free zones like Meydan Free Zone, there is a 0% corporate tax rate, which means your company can retain more of its profits.

• Interesting Work: With many large and sophisticated businesses in the emirate, you will have opportunities to support complex organisations on long-term and intellectually stimulating contracts.

• Government Encouragement: As reported above, the UAE government plans to introduce new cyber security standards for public sector organisations; this shows that the government is fully on board with encouraging cyber security across the nation.

• The Technology Ecosystem: Dubai is an internationally recognised hub for technology, and this means you will be working close to many other cutting-edge companies that can provide support services, staff and hardware that your Dubai cyber security business needs.

Steps To Start A Cyber Security Business In Dubai, UAE

If you plan to start a cyber security business in the UAE, you will first need to get a trading license. The following five steps describe how you can get this license.

• 1. Select Your Business Activity
  The first step to getting a cyber security business license in Dubai is to select your business activity. The government has created a number of licenses for cyber security businesses, including:

  Cyber Security Consultancy
  Encryption Software Trading
  Cyber Risk Management Services
  Auditing, Reviewing & Testing Cyber Risks
  And many others

  We can advise you on the most appropriate license for your company at Meydan Free Zone.

• 2. Choose A Trade Name For Your Dubai Cyber Security Business
  Your trading name needs to succinctly describe what your company does, and it must not use terms that could be considered offensive or potentially blasphemous. Further, the brand must not contain any acronyms with your own name. For example, Sven Gerhart Cyber Security would be fine, but SG Cyber Security would contravene the rules.

  To find out more, visit our website, or get in touch with us via setup@meydanfz.ae or 800FZ1.

• 3. Choose The Location Of Your Cyber Security Company
  Selecting a business location is a vital step in starting your cyber security business in Dubai. Many IT-managed services and cyber security firms choose to base themselves at Meydan Free Zone because it offers a 0% tax rate and 100% foreign ownership. Our location in central Dubai means you are close many businesses who are operating in the central business district and need your services.

  We can advise you on setting up your free zone company at Meydan Free Zone, and provide the support you need to make your cyber security consultancy a success.

• 4. Complete Your Application And Pay Fees
  In order to receive your Dubai UAE cyber security business license, you will need to complete your application form and provide a range of documents and paperwork. Paying the associated fees as part of your business license application is also essential.
• 5. Receive Your License And Open A Business Bank Account
  Receiving your license to run a cybersecurity company in Dubai takes just a few days – so long as all your paperwork is in order and your application form and fees are all correct. At Meydan Free Zone, we can support you by ensuring that all your paperwork complies with the requirements and avoids unnecessary administrative errors.

  Once your license has been approved, the final step is to open a business bank account so that you can make and receive payments – Meydan Pay is our simple digital banking solution for businesses working in our free zone. It gives you an IBAN and digital wallet with all the necessary features to start making and receiving payments.

Open Your Zero Balance Business Bank Account

Cost Of Starting A Cyber Security Company In Dubai, UAE

The cost of starting a cybersecurity business in Dubai varies depending on the number of visas you are applying for, along with your application. If no visas are required, it can cost as little as AED 12,500, going up to AED 23,600 for six visa allocations. This figure includes your business license and associated fees.

For a quote tailored to your business and the number of visas you need to apply for, contact Meydan Free Zone today, and we can give you a precise figure for how much your wholesale trading license will cost.

Besides the license costs of starting a cyber security company in Dubai, you will also need to consider other start-up costs, including hardware, marketing materials and specific cyber security technology such as pen testing software.

Use Our Calculator Now And Get A Discount On Your License

Documents To Start A Cyber Security Company In Dubai, UAE

If you would like to start a cyber security consultancy in Dubai, you will need to provide the following documents as part of the application process. At Meydan Free Zone, we can support you with all steps in compiling these documents and verifying them for any errors:

• A completed application form which describes what cyber security services you will offer
• Copies of your passport and passport size photos
• A copy of your residence visa (if applicable)
• Emirates ID copy (if applicable)

Why Meydan Free Zone?

Meydan Free Zone, located in central Dubai, is the ideal place to launch your cyber security business. Our free zone is already home to several high-tech businesses, thanks to its high-powered internet connections and IT services, amenities and a fantastic location close to many potential customers. Our experienced consultants can support you with all aspects of business setup in Dubai, which means you can focus on starting your cybersecurity business – and leave the admin to us.

To find out more, visit our website, or get in touch with us via setup@meydanfz.ae or 800FZ1.

We also provide several additional services to any company looking to launch a cyber security firm in Dubai, UAE. For example, Meydan Pay provides you with a digital wallet and an IBAN, which allows you to receive payments from your customers anywhere in the world. Learn more about Meydan Pay here.

Similarly, Meydan Commerce is a unique offering that helps cyber security firms sell their products and services online. And, if you are starting, our Easy Payment Plans allow you to spread the cost of launching your free zone business over several months.

With ever more demand for cyber security services, now is an excellent time to launch your Dubai Cyber Security business. Contact Meydan Free Zone today, and start tackling cyber criminals fast!

The only thing bigger than the UAE’s buildings is its appetite. And nowhere is this more evident than in the world of food delivery.

UAE online food delivery revenues are expected to reach over USD 1.3bn this year, with the largest sector, restaurant-to-consumer delivery, accounting for USD 954m of that.

Why Start a Food Delivery Business in Dubai, UAE?

In general, food businesses are among the most lucrative in the entire world, which also applies to the Emirates.

Market potential

There’s an array of cuisines and types of food lined up at restaurants in Dubai, whether they are a part of the luxurious malls or a busy sidewalk. In UAE, most consumers are willing to opt for food delivery instead of physically visiting a restaurant to satisfy their food cravings. This indicates that entering the food delivery business in Dubai may generate a lot of profits due to extremely high potential.

Low start-up costs

To reinforce the profitability of the food delivery business, it’s a particularly low investment start-up that doesn’t generate a large amount of costs at the start of the business cycle. Hence, scaling up with company profits will not be a problem. Food delivery app development would be the only significant cost, and marketing/advertising costs would be minimal since flyers and having contact details on delivery vehicles would provide the required recognition.

Flexibility

A business would not need to work long hours or dedicate a large portion of their time to maintain food delivery. After completing the licensing and registration process, the company would need to pay attention to maintaining their available technology, financial management and create a team that excels in customer service.

The Benefits of Starting a Food Delivery Service Business

Access to a large and growing market is one of the major benefits of starting up a food delivery business here in Dubai. With 2022’s USD 1.3bn market estimated to reach almost USD 1.5bn by 2026, the appetite for restaurant quality food at home is unlikely to subside any time soon.

Simplicity is another key advantage. There is no need to own a restaurant or a kitchen, you are simply there to connect potential customers with their favoured cuisine. This allows you to offer a wide scope of offerings through a single app.

This also allows for automation. Once you have developed the platform, it largely takes care of itself, save for maintenance and a degree of customer support. Most communication takes place between customers and restaurants, with your business taking a percentage of each transaction for providing the platform.

Steps to Get a Business License for a Food Delivery App

1. Select your business activity

The first step is to select your business activity. This will be a straightforward process when obtaining a food delivery license; but working with an expert such as Meydan Free Zone will always help to speed up the process.

2. Choose a trade name for your business

To comply with Dubai’s business naming rules, your company name must clearly describe what your company does. At the same time, it must not include any terms that could be considered offensive or potentially blasphemous.

Furthermore, your company name must not include any acronyms with your own name either. For example, Ahmad Ali Food Delivery would be fine, but AA Food Delivery would not be permitted.

3. Choose your business location

Choosing a business location is a major consideration when starting a Dubai food delivery business. Many companies choose to base themselves at the Meydan Free Zone because it offers a 0% tax rate and 100% foreign ownership.

We can advise you on setting up your free zone company here and provide the support you need to make your business a success.

4. Complete your application and pay fees

In order to receive your food delivery business license in Dubai you will need to complete your application form. At Meydan Free Zone, we can support you to ensure a simple and fast process.

5. Receive your license and open a business bank account

With Meydan Free Zone, receiving your license to run a food delivery business in Dubai takes just a few days.

Once your license has been approved, the final step is to open a business bank account so you can make and receive payments from clients in the UAE and abroad.

Meydan Pay is our simple digital banking solution for businesses working in our free zone. It gives you an IBAN and digital wallet which comes with all the features you need to start making and receiving payments.

Costs of Building an Online Food Delivery Smart App

There are two key costs when setting up a food delivery platform in Dubai. The first one is the trade license fee.

At Meydan Free Zone, you can pick up a license inclusive of three business activities for just AED 12,500. If you wish to include the cost of your visa, this price increases to AED 14,350. For a license package inclusive of six visas, the total cost is AED 23,600.

On top of the standard trade license fee, there are a few additional costs for food delivery permits. These are as follows:

• New Permit: AED 1,000
• Renewal of Permit: AED 1,000
• Pro Services: AED 3,000

Then, of course, there is the cost of the delivery platform. This will depend on the size and scope of your operation as well as how you intend to build your app.

It may be cheaper if you are able to build and maintain your own platform. However, it is possible to buy pre-built platforms for around AED 2,000 to AED 5,000.

Documents Required to Start a Food Delivery App in Dubai

To launch your food delivery business in the UAE, you will be required to provide the following documents:

• The initial approval to conduct the activity issued by the commercial licensing authorities in the emirate for new establishments, and a copy of the commercial license for existing establishments.
• A copy of the valid passport of the owner and all partners.
• A copy of the identity card of the owner and all partners.
• An undertaking to abide by the conditions and requirements necessary to carry out the activity.

If you are setting up your business with individual shareholders, you will also need to provide:

• Passport size photo (digital)
• Residence visa copy

If setting up with corporate shareholders, you will need to provide:

• Certificate of Incorporation
• Certificate of Incumbency or equivalent
• Memorandum of Association

Conditions of the Dubai Food Delivery Permit

To hold a food delivery permit in Dubai, you must meet and abide with the following licensing conditions and obligations: 

• You, the applicant, commit to providing the systems, electronic media and smart applications necessary to practise the food delivery activity and ensure they meet with Road Traffic Authority (RTA) stipulations regarding quality violations code, control systems, data provision, payment of fees as part of agreements concluded with RTA, installation of tracking devices, etc.
• You must clearly define the activities to be managed through electronic media and smart applications – i.e., if you are licensed to deliver food, you cannot also deliver parcels, medicines, etc. without approval.
• In the event of renting the transport means from another party or contracting with another party to undertake the delivery service, then that party must also be licensed for this purpose by the RTA.
• You must sign and agree to these terms with the RTA.

Working with Meydan Free Zone

Meydan Free Zone is a thriving, centrally located economic district with one of the most prestigious business addresses in the region.

We offer our businesses a host of innovative investment and lifestyle benefits in a secure regulated environment that empowers productivity. When you set up here, you’ll benefit from:

A business presence in the heart of Dubai

You’re never far from the hustle and bustle of the city centre at Meydan Free Zone. Just 15 minutes from the Dubai International Airport and mere minutes from Downtown Dubai.

An empowering environment

Setting up your business in Meydan Free Zone gives you exclusive access to a networking community that inspires growth through innovation and collaboration. Dubai is home to countless startups, SMEs, and multinational corporations, making it the perfect city for you to start and grow your business.

A paperless experience

Don’t let red tape hold you back. Our intelligent and intuitive license application kit means you will work with easy-to-use forms that significantly reduce time and effort during the application process. The platform brings together all aspects of compliance and regulation for your businesses (such as UBO, ESR, AML) in a single interface.

Our expert team can assist across all processes involved in business setup in Dubai, from registering your company name to managing your license and visa applications.

To find out more, visit our website, or get in touch with us via setup@meydanfz.ae or 800FZ1.

If you prefer, you can visit us at Meydan Free Zone Business Centre, Mezzanine Floor, Meydan Hotel, Meydan Rd, Nad Al Sheba 1, Dubai, UAE.

Dubai has one of the highest percentages of expatriate residents of any place in the world. More than 2m of the emirate’s 3.3m population are workers, investors, and families from overseas.

There are many reasons behind this. For one, the UAE is among the most welcoming countries in the world, with a time-tested immigration process and simple visa application laws. It is also a major business hub, bringing entrepreneurs from every corner of the globe.

Thanks to its 0% tax rate on personal and corporate income, amazing trading location, and open company formation process. So, if you’re looking to start a business in Dubai as a foreigner, keep reading.

Things To Remember As A Foreigner Starting A Business In Dubai, UAE

While starting a business in Dubai as a foreigner can be quick and straightforward, it requires some expert knowledge. So, the first thing to do when starting up out here is to partner with a company formation agent or local free zone

Contact Meydan Free Zone today and start your business in no time

The team at Meydan Free Zone will ensure you are familiar with all local laws and customs and guide you through the company formation process. Here are a few things to keep in mind

Company Names

The company naming procedure in the UAE is a little different from that of many other countries, so you should seek advice before attempting to register your new business.

The UAE has a set of naming parameters to which you’ll need to stick. But don’t worry; all are straightforward and largely common sense.

Essentially, you should avoid blasphemous and offensive language and the names of well-known organisations. We will also cover a few more rules in your initial consultation.

Free Zone Or Mainland

There are two common setups available to foreigners when starting a business in the UAE — the Free Zone and the Mainland.

Mainland Businesses can be established anywhere and trade directly with the local market. Free zone businesses can trade from designated zones and require a local agent to trade directly in the UAE. However, free zones offer incredible benefits such as 100% customs tax exemption, zero currency restrictions, and capital and profit repatriations.

In most cases, free zone company ownership is often more suited to foreign investors

Sponsors And Service Agents

In some cases, you will require the services of a local agent or sponsor when trading in the UAE. The local agent will facilitate trade with the local market if you open a free zone business.

If you open a mainland business, you may require a sponsor who will hold a 51% stake in your business. However, many business activities are now permitted to be wholly undertaken by foreign business owners.

In both cases, the agent or sponsor is paid a fee and has no decision-making power or claim on profits.

Steps To Start A Business As A Foreigner In Dubai

• Outline Your Business Activities
  First, you must clearly stipulate every business activity you wish to carry out, as these will determine the type of license you require.

  There are thousands of permitted activities in the UAE. You can list multiple activities and add more later.

• Compile Your Paperwork
  Incomplete and incorrect paperwork is the number one reason for delays and rejection when applying for a business license in Dubai.

  When you work with Meydan Free Zone, we’ll ensure your application is in order before submission, saving you both time and inconvenience. You’ll find a list of required documents below

• Apply For Your License
  With everything ready and in order, you can now apply for your UAE trade license. The most suitable license type will depend on whether your activities fall into the professional, industrial, commercial or other categories.

  Your Meydan contact will advise on the one you require and assist with your application.

• Obtaining A Visa
  Meydan Free Zone can help you with your visa application too. As well as submitting documentation, you will need to undergo a fitness test, blood test, and chest x-ray. You can also sponsor the visas of others, such as dependent children and parents, your spouse, and any domestic staff.
• Opening A Corporate Bank Account
  You’ll need a corporate bank account to operate in the UAE. However, accessing financial products is not always easy for non-GCC citizens.

  When you start your business at Meydan Free Zone, you’ll get access to Meydan Pay – the first and only solution that provides you with an instant and guaranteed IBAN when you receive your business license. So, you can start sending and receiving payments in the UAE straightaway, avoiding lengthy bank account opening procedures

Documents Required To Start A Business In Dubai

If you are starting your UAE business with individual shareholders only, you are required to submit the following documents:

• Passport copy
• Passport size photo (digital)
• Residence visa Copy (if applicable)
• Emirates ID copy (if applicable)

If you are setting up with corporate shareholders, you will also need to provide the following:

• Certificate of Incorporation
• Certificate of Incumbency or equivalent
• Memorandum of Association

Cost Of Starting A Business In Dubai As A Foreigner

The cost of obtaining a license in Dubai as a foreigner will depend on several factors, including the size and nature of your business and whether you operate on the mainland or in a free zone.

You can start your business at Meydan Free Zone for only AED 14,350. This package includes one visa and covers you for three licensed activities. For AED 23,600, you can get a UAE trade license and allocation for six visas.

Inquire Now

At Meydan Free Zone, you can start your business from just AED 14,350. This package is inclusive of one visa and covers you for three licensed activities. For AED 23,600, you can get a UAE trade license along with allocation for six visas.

Why Work With Meydan Free Zone

Meydan Free Zone is a thriving, centrally located economic district with one of the most prestigious business addresses in the region.

We offer our businesses a host of innovative investment and lifestyle benefits in a secure, regulated environment that empowers productivity. We make business setup in Dubai easy. When you set up here, you’ll benefit from:

A business presence in the heart of Dubai: You’re never far from the hustle and bustle of the city centre at Meydan Free Zone. Just 15 minutes from the Dubai International Airport and mere minutes from Downtown Dubai.

An empowering environment: Setting up your business in Meydan Free Zone gives you exclusive access to a networking community that inspires growth through innovation and collaboration. Dubai is home to countless start-ups, SMEs, and multinational corporations, making it the perfect city for you to start and grow your business.

A paperless experience: Don’t let red tape hold you back. Our intelligent and intuitive license application kit means you will work with easy-to-use forms that significantly reduce time and effort during the application process. The platform brings together all aspects of compliance and regulation for your businesses (such as UBO, ESR, AML) in a single interface.

Our expert team can assist across all processes involved in business setup in Dubai, from registering your company name to managing your license and visa applications

To find out more, visit our website, or get in touch with us via setup@meydanfz.ae or 800FZ1.

If you prefer, you can visit us at Meydan Free Zone Business Centre, Mezzanine Floor, Meydan Hotel, Meydan Rd, Nad Al Sheba 1, Dubai, UAE.

Wholesale trading businesses are some of the most successful companies operating in Dubai. So, if you consider starting a wholesale trading business in Dubai, you will undoubtedly enter an exciting sector.

Statistics show that the wholesale and retail trade generates over a quarter of the emirates’ entire GDP. What is more, data from Statista shows that revenue from the wholesale and retail trade in the UAE is expected to reach some USD 55 billion by the year 2024 – its highest ever!

Dubai’s success as a hub of wholesale businesses is primarily due to its geographic location. At the crossroads of world trade, Dubai is a major shipping hub, and some 2 billion consumers live within six hours of the emirate. This means your businesses could reach global markets very quickly.

Starting a wholesale trading business in Dubai requires applying for a wholesale trade license. This process is relatively straightforward, but it requires you to complete a certain amount of paperwork, which can be a challenge if you’re unfamiliar with the process.

At Meydan Free Zone, we have helped numerous businesses set up in the wholesale trading sector. In this article, we will be looking at how to start a wholesale trading business in Dubai:

So, let’s see how you can begin applying for your wholesale trading business license.

What are the steps to start a wholesale trading business in Dubai?

Whether you plan to trade wholesale for foods, electronics, technology, commodities, textiles, vehicle parts or anything else, you will need to get a retail and wholesale trading license for Dubai. The following five steps describe how you can get this license.

• Select Your Business Activity
  The first step to getting a wholesale trading presence in Dubai is to select your business activity. You can choose from thousands of business activities in Dubai, but for wholesale businesses, you will need to choose the wholesale & retail trade license categories.
• Choose A Trade Name For Your Business
  Your trading name needs to describe what your company does succinctly, and you should be careful not to include any terms that could be considered offensive or potentially blasphemous. Moreover, the brand must not involve any acronyms with your name. For example, Charles Wang Wholesale Electronics would be acceptable, but C.W. Wholesale Electronics may get rejected. It is always best to have three preferred names registered with your license application.
• Choose Your Business Location
  Choosing a business location is vital in starting your wholesale trading business. Many companies choose to base themselves in the Meydan Free Zone because it offers a 0% tax rate and 100% foreign ownership. Our location in central Dubai means you are close to the airport and the seaport, as well as local retail businesses who would want to purchase wholesale from you. We can advise you on setting up your free zone company at Meydan Free Zone and provide the support you need to make your business a success.
• Complete Your Application And Pay Fees
  To receive your wholesale trading business license for Dubai, you will need to complete your application form and provide a range of documents and paperwork. Paying the associated fees as part of your business license application is also essential.
• Receive Your License And Open A Business Bank Account
  Receiving your license to run a wholesale trading business in Dubai takes just a few days – so long as all your paperwork is in order and your application form and fees are all correct. At Meydan Free Zone, we can support you by ensuring that all your paperwork complies with the requirements and avoids unnecessary administrative errors.

Once your license has been approved, the final step is to open a business bank account so that you can make and receive payments – Meydan Pay helps you with banking solutions for businesses working in our free zone. You can choose from a selection of local and international banks to open your business account; you need to start making and receiving payments.

This five-step process to starting a wholesale trading business in Dubai typically takes no more than four working days – and for many customers at Meydan Free Zone, it often requires even less time than that if all your documents pass through compliance swiftly.

Cost Of A Wholesale Trading License In Dubai

The cost of a wholesale trading license in Dubai varies based on the number of visas you request as part of your application. If no visas are required, your license application can cost as little as AED 12,500, up to AED 23,600 for six visa allocations. This figure includes your business license and associated fees.

For a quote tailored to your business and the number of visas you need to apply for, contact Meydan Free Zone today, and we can give you a precise figure for how much your wholesale trading license will cost.

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Documents Required To Get A Wholesale Trading License

If you want to start a wholesale trading business in Dubai, you will need to provide the following documents as part of the application process. At Meydan Free Zone, we can support you with the entire process of compiling these documents and verifying them for any errors:

• A completed application form which describes what your business does and all the varied goods you will trade-in.
• Copies of your passport.
• A copy of your residence visa (if applicable)
• Emirates ID copy (if applicable)

Why Choose Meydan Free Zone?

Meydan Free Zone, located in central Dubai, close to the International Airport and a short drive to the seaport, is one of the most advanced free zones in the emirate. Many companies run their wholesale and retail businesses from our free zone, thanks to its location, amenities and added value services. Our highly experienced consultants can support you with all aspects of business setup in Dubai, so you can focus on starting your wholesale business.

We also provide several additional services to any company looking to launch a wholesale or retail business in Dubai, UAE. For example, Meydan Pay helps you with banking solutions for businesses working in our free zone. You can choose from a selection of both local and international banks; to open your business bank account, you need to start making and receiving payments.

For a business working in the wholesale sector, Learn more about Meydan Pay here. Similarly, Meydan Commerce is a comprehensive service to support you with selling your goods online on both Noon and Amazon – which can be an exciting new source of revenue for wholesalers.

With the market for wholesale and retail businesses set to grow in the coming years, now is an excellent time to launch your Dubai wholesale business.

Contact Meydan Free Zone today and start trading in no time

With its diversified economy and large, sophisticated public and private sectors, the United Arab Emirates is a great place to start a consulting business. So, if you have experience as a management consultant and an in-depth knowledge of your field, launching a consulting business in Dubai could be a very profitable move.

Like other countries in the GCC, the UAE’s public sector is the largest consumer of consulting services, and the country’s consulting industry turnover reached $1.2 billion in 2019. Research reveals that general management consulting is the most common business offering among small and medium-sized consulting firms, followed by data and technology, accounting tax and audit advisory, marketing and media, and people-focused consultancy. Management consultancies in Dubai help their customers to make their businesses more streamlined, efficient and productive.

If you would like to set up a management consultancy in the emirate, you will first need to apply for a management consultancy license for Dubai. To do so, you will need to complete various steps. In this blog, we will explore:

Steps To Get A Management Consultancy License In Dubai

If you want to start a management consultancy in Dubai, you must apply for a management consultancy license. This will legally allow you to provide consultancy services, recommend policies and procedures to streamline your customers’ operations and make proposals for how companies can restructure – among many other activities. The license will also enable you to set up your business office, apply for a visa, hire employees, and open a business bank account.

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Here are five key steps to getting a management consultancy license in Dubai.

1. Select Your Business Activity

Meydan Free Zone permits businesses to choose from over 2000 business activities across various industries and subsectors. You must select a business activity from a list available on our website www.meydanfz.ae . For the vast majority of management consultancies, the most appropriate business activity group would be ‘consultancy’, which covers management consulting and marketing.

2. Choose A Trade Name For Your Business

You must choose a trade name for your management consultancy that follows Dubai’s business naming rules. When applying for a trade name, there are certain key things to bear in mind:

• It must not include any acronyms of your name (e.g. John Smith Consulting would be fine, but J.S. Consulting would not be permitted).
• The trade name must not include offensive terms or language that could be perceived as blasphemous.

3. Choose Your Business Location

Meydan Free Zone offers a premium business location situated inside The Meydan Hotel. Your business license comes with a flexi -desk overlooking the beautiful horse racing grounds. Choose from dedicated offices and spacious meeting rooms.

For many management consultancies, operating from a free zone brings significant benefits – including 100% foreign ownership, 100% repatriation of capital and profits, and 0% income tax and corporate tax.

4. Complete Your Application And Pay The Fees

Next up, you will need to complete your registration on Meydan’s customer portal as part of your management consultancy license process and pay all relevant fees online.

5. Receive Your License And Open A Business Bank Account

A final step in launching your management consultancy is to collect your business license and apply for a corporate bank account, allowing you to receive clients’ payments.

Apply for your management consultancy license now!

Activities of Management Consultant License in Dubai

As reiterated earlier, a management consultant license is highly diversified and allows for a plethora of opportunities. Here are some of the best activities you can pursue under a management consultant license.

1. Business Process Innovation

The profitability process is one that needs constant improvement and tweaks with the presence of technology, and in instances where a company is underperforming, turning to a management consultant is the best option. Your responsibilities will include suggesting solutions and alternatives to modify operations in the business.

2. Market Assessment

A firm would require a thorough analysis of a market that they are about to enter before penetrating into it. A business consultant will be able to provide clarity on entering complex markets whilst educating the client on customs, business culture, and inclusive knowledge.

3. Strategy Formation

Long term and short term strategies are particularly important to any business. As a management consultant, your job will be to formulate strategies on aspects such as financial policies, external, internal processes, and after sales services. Considering a business’s market segments, acquisition costs and team goals, you can assist a business.

4. Human Capital

Whether it be from the start-up stages or growth stage, the importance of human capital remains the same at every stage of the business development phase. As a consultancy firm, you will bear the tasks of advising the client on employees, regulatory framework on labour law, and employee appointment.

5. Service Excellence

Customer retention rates being maintained is one of the more challenging tasks faced by a majority of companies. The higher the competition, the more attention businesses have to pay to refining and improving their relationships with customers. As a consultancy firm, you will need to assist clients with technology assessments, customer segmentation, strategy maps and more.

Apply for your management consultancy license now!

Cost Of A Management Consultancy License In Dubai

Getting a management consultancy license in the Meydan Free Zone starts from AED 12,500. Contact us for an obligation-free quote today to get a precise cost for your management consultancy license with visas in Meydan Free Zone.

Documents Required To Get A Consultancy License In Dubai

If you are interested in applying for a management consultancy license in Meydan Free Zone, you’ll need to provide the following documents as part of the process.

• Passport copy
• Passport size photo (digital)
• Residence visa Copy (if applicable)
• Emirates ID copy (if applicable)

When you set up a management consultancy at Meydan Free Zone, we can support you with compiling all this paperwork to make the process smoother.

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Why Choose Meydan Free Zone?

The Meydan Free Zone is located close to the centre of Dubai, near the airport and right next to the international racecourse and golf course, in eye-catching surroundings. If you choose the Meydan Free Zone as the base for your consultancy business, you will join many other professional consulting firms already operating successful businesses out of our premises.

Besides our impressive location and high-quality office spaces, launching your management consultancy from Meydan Free Zone provides:

1. MOFA recognised business license.
2. Quick and easy incorporation from an online portal.
3. Zero paid up share capital.
4. Unlimited number of visas depending on office size.
5. Company documents issued within a day with instant IBAN.
6. No Corporate or Income tax
7. Exclusive community benefits with discounts.

Starting a consultancy at Meydan Free Zone couldn’t be easier, and we have extensive experience with all aspects of helping set up consultancies here. We can walk you through the entire process, helping you choose the best business structure, supporting you with all aspects of the paperwork and putting you in the best position to make a success of your consultancy.

To find out more, visit our website, or get in touch with us via setup@meydanfz.ae or 800FZ1.

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Real Estate in Dubai is always in demand. It is so high that property in the emirate regularly outyields prestigious real estate hot spots like New York and London. It is also the region with the highest returns on real estate compared to other popular areas worldwide. In addition, eGovernment services make the entire process seamless online: making payments, getting visas, and obtaining certifications easier than ever.

Naturally, this makes property in Dubai an attractive option for international investors. And where there’s demand, there’s an opportunity. Whether you want to invest in the property yourself or start a property management company or real estate brokerage, there can be few better places than Dubai.

And when you start a UAE business with the help of Meydan Free Zone, you can be up and running in no time. Our team are experts in business setup in Dubai and can help you with licensing, visas and much more.

The Benefits of Starting a Real Estate Business in Dubai

Impressive yields and high demand for the property are just two of the many reasons to start a real estate business in Dubai.

The UAE is also famed for its lack of unnecessary bureaucracy, regularly ranking well in the World Bank’s ease of doing business. So, starting a business to buy and manage a property can be straightforward with the right support.

Then, there is also the UAE’s attractive tax rate of 0% on personal income. And there are more benefits for free zone companies, too, including 100% freedom to repatriate capital and profits.

Set up in Meydan Free Zone, and you’ll also benefit from:

• Premier location
  Being at one of the most sought-after centrally located commercial addresses in Dubai puts you minutes away from major pulse points and the city’s vital commercial and financial hubs.
• Easy start-up
  Benefit from a smooth registration process with access to priority government relations assistance and broad support services tailored to address your individual business needs.
• A great place to live and work
  Take advantage of the unique opportunity to live and work in Meydan’s premium mixed-use developments offering innovative office spaces that encourage business growth.
• Steps to Start a Real Estate Business in Dubai
  We can guide you through the steps required to start a real estate business in Dubai at Meydan Free Zone.

Steps to start a real estate business in Dubai

Let’s take a closer look at each of them.

1. Deciding Business Location
It is essential to consider your business’ nature, accessibility to the market, and benefits when determining where to locate.

Dubai offers three economic environments to base real estate firms: mainland, free zone, and offshore. There are differences in these business models, as well as advantages and disadvantages. We can advise you on the best location for your needs at Meydan Free Zone.

There are fewer regulations in Meydan Free Zone, which attracts more businesses. Furthermore, you will be exempt from personal income tax, import duties, currency restrictions, and excessive regulations if your business is located in Meydan Free Zone.

2. Choosing Business Activity
The next step is to choose a business activity in Dubai. The following are some of Dubai’s most common business activities for real estate firms.

THE MOST COMMON BUSINESS ACTIVITIES FOR REAL ESTATE FIRMS IN DUBAI

• Professional Company
• Sole Proprietorship
• LLC (Limited Liability Company)
• Partnership en-Commendam
• Joint Venture
• Private Shareholding
• General Partnership
• Public Shareholding

Property-related business activities are numerous. To move forward with your business, you should outline your business activities. This will determine what type of license you need. If you plan on running a real estate brokerage, opening a property consultancy, or any other related business, this must be stated in your license. You may include multiple business activities and can add more after your application.

The license type you choose must meet the needs and goals of your company. For example, you can legally represent the seller of a building, rent a building, manage properties for owners, and consult on building sales and lettings if you register real estate brokerage as your business activity.

START YOUR BUSINESS NOW WITH AED 1,042 PER MONTH

3. Choosing a Company Name
The UAE has a very clear naming parameter you’ll need to stick to. But don’t worry; all are straightforward and largely common sense. Essentially, you should avoid blasphemous and offensive language and the names of well-known organisations. We will also cover a few more rules in your initial consultation.

4. Getting RERA Certification
To qualify for the license, you should register for the Dubai Real Estate Institute’s Certified Training for Real Estate Brokers course (DREI). This certification is necessary for the license-issuing process. You must pass an exam at the end of the course to become a registered real estate broker in Dubai. Obtain a Good Conduct Certificate from Dubai Police after passing the course.

After that, you need to contact RERA to obtain your broker ID. Once you get your broker ID, you can legally begin your career as a real estate agent in Dubai. RERA broker IDs are required in Dubai since each emirate has a real estate licensing body. It is important to remember that your license must be renewed annually.

Documents Required for RERA Registration

• Application Form
• DED License Copy
• Tenancy Contract (Ejari)
• Payment Receipt For RERA Courses
• Location Of Your Business

5. Memorandum of Association
In accordance with UAE Commercial Companies Law, companies must include an object clause in a Memorandum of Association. The clause sets out exactly why the company is made and lists the economic activities it plans to undertake upon incorporation. If a company acts outside the activities mentioned in the object clause, the actions are potentially voidable as it operates outside of its powers. The company may even be penalized by authorities and sued by third parties.

A company’s Memorandum of Association (MOA) is a legal document prepared during incorporation. It defines the company’s relationship, its members, and the general public. The Memorandum of Association must be typed in accordance with the protocols of the Dubai Economy and Tourism Department, formerly the Department of Economic Development (DED), and UAE commercial law. It is also vital to notarise the MOA.

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6. Applying for Trade License
Once you have successfully navigated this initial process stage, you can apply for your trade license. Trade licenses for free zones must be obtained from the respective authorities, such as Meydan Free Zone.

Your license application will require you to submit some documents. You need to get the final approval in the form of a professional services license. This license is required for those who want to run property management or brokerage services in Dubai. For that, you will need to submit it again.

You must also register your real estate brokerage company with the Department of Naturalisation and Residency Dubai (DNRD) and the Ministry of Labour (MOL) to employ foreign employees and sponsor their visas.

We’ll also help you obtain your visa. As part of this process, you will be required to undergo a fitness test, blood test, and chest x-ray. You can also sponsor the visas of others, such as dependent children and parents, your spouse, and any domestic staff.

At this stage, you will need to submit a form containing details about your business and its shareholders and proof of address and identification.

7. Getting Approval from Dubai Land Department
Dubai Land Department is the government body that oversees activities related to real estate in the UAE. Before operating a real estate brokerage business in Dubai, brokerages must receive approval from the Dubai Land Department (DLD).

Finally, if you’re getting paid in the UAE, you’ll need a corporate bank account. Meydan Free Zone can help with this step, too, advising on the right financial institution for your needs and circumstances.

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Cost of Opening a Real Estate Brokerage in Dubai

Dubai’s real estate license cost will depend on many factors, including your business location, activities, and size, all of which will play a part.

In addition to the real estate license fee, you will also have to pay AED 2,500 for the RERA real estate brokers’ course.

For a full breakdown of costs, get in touch with the team at Meydan Free Zone.

Take Your Business to New Heights at Meydan Free Zone

Meydan Free Zone is a thriving, centrally located economic district with one of the most prestigious business addresses in the region.

We offer our businesses a host of innovative investment and lifestyle benefits in a secure, regulated environment that empowers productivity. And we can help you join them too.

Our expert team can assist the entire company formation journey, from registering your company name to managing your license and visa applications.

To find out more, visit our website, or get in touch with us via setup@meydanfz.ae or 800FZ1.

When starting a business in the UAE, entrepreneurs have two standard options.

Option One: you can establish your business anywhere in the mainland. This approach allows you to trade freely with the local market and take on government contracts.

Option Two: You can opt to start your business in UAE free zone. With this option, you cannot take on government work, and you must use the services of a local agent to trade with a local market. However, the many benefits afforded to free zone businesses more than make up for these minor inconveniences.

And when you start your free zone business at Meydan Free Zone, you can be up and running in no time. Our team are expert in business setup in Dubai and can help you with licensing visas and much more.

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The benefits of starting a company in Meydan Free Zone

Let’s start with the many benefits of doing business in Dubai. For one, you’ll benefit from an incredibly strategic location at the heart of the Middle East – primed to trade with Europe, Asia, and Africa.

Additionally, the UAE has a 0% tax rate on personal incomes.

The additional benefits of the Meydan Free Zone company setup are as follows:

• Premier location
  Being at one of the most sought-after centrally located commercial addresses in Dubai puts you minutes away from major pulse points and the city’s vital commercial and financial hubs. Meydan Free Zone is 8 minutes away from Downtown Dubai.
• Easy start up
  Benefit from a smooth registration process with access to priority government relations assistance and broad support services tailored to your business needs, all from a click of a button on an award-winning digital platform.
• A great place to live and work
  Take advantage of the unique opportunity to live, work & play in Meydan’s premium mixed-use developments offering innovative office spaces that encourage business growth, promote family living, and a bustling neighborhood with the latest attractions and malls.

Meydan Free Zone company setup costs

Meydan Free Zone is the only authority in UAE that offers Pay as you go business model where you can start offers a range of packages, from simple licensing options at AED 12,500 and then build your business up to those inclusive of the cost of visas, coworking space, business premises, utilities, and more. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Dubai recognises all our business licenses.

So, while setting up in a free zone is often the most affordable way to start a business in the UAE, the total cost of your package will depend on your requirements. For example, a solo entrepreneur operating under a single license will be less expensive than a large business requiring premises and multiple visas.

CALCULATE YOUR LICENSE COSTS NOW

For a detailed and personalised breakdown of the costs involved in starting your business, get in touch with the team at Meydan Free Zone.

Steps to get a Meydan Free Zone company license

When you start your business with Meydan Free Zone, you get the benefit of our expertise so you can go into the company formation process with total confidence. Your dedicated account contact will guide you through the following company formation process.

We’ll start by helping you choose and register your company name. The UAE has a set of naming parameters to which you’ll need to stick. But don’t worry; all are straightforward and largely common sense.  Essentially, you should avoid blasphemous and offensive language and the names of well-known organisations. We will also cover a few more rules in your initial consultation.

START YOUR BUSINESS NOW WITH AED 1,042 PER MONTH 

At this point, we’ll also help you align your chosen business activities to the approved list published by the UAE’s various Municipalities and Departments of Economic Development. It is important that you list every activity that you intend to undertake on your business license.

Now we can oversee your UAE Trade License application. As part of this process, you’ll be asked to provide details about your business and its shareholders and proof of address and identification. The application is completed on an online portal. Once your MOFA recognised license is issued, the next step would be your residency or investor visa.

We can help you with your visa application too. As well as submitting documentation, once your e-visa is issued, you will need to undergo a fitness test, blood test, and chest x-ray; the medical assistance team can help you with the appointments, along with a driver to help you with the whole process. Once your visa is approved, and you get your Emirates ID, You can also sponsor the visas of others, such as your dependent spouse,  Children, parents, your spouse, and any domestic staff.

Finally, if you’re getting paid in the UAE, you’ll need a UAE business bank account. Meydan Free Zone can help with this step, too, advising on the right bank for your circumstances. They have partnered with multiple local and international banks. All Relationship Managers sit inside the free zone to help you with immediate assistance.

 GET YOUR BUSINESS LICENSE NOW WITH AN INSTANT IBAN

Take your business to new heights at Meydan Free Zone

Meydan Free Zone is a thriving, centrally located economic district with one of the most prestigious business addresses in the region.

We offer our businesses a host of innovative investment and lifestyle benefits in a secure, regulated environment that empowers productivity. And we can help you join them too.

Our expert team can assist the entire company formation journey, from registering your company name to managing your license and visa applications.

When you think of Dubai, you think of buildings. And with good reason. The emirate is home to some incredible structures – not least the tallest in the world, the Burj Khalifa.

Each of those skyscrapers, commerce parks, office blocks, hotels, and more have something in common. They all need maintenance. And while it may not sound glamorous, building maintenance is big business.

The UAE’s overall facilities management industry was valued at over USD 14bn last year and is expected to grow by 10% between now and 2030. For entrepreneurs with the drive and expertise to meet this demand, there is a significant opportunity.

And when you start a UAE business with the help of Meydan Free Zone, you can have your building maintenance company up and running in no time. Our team are expert in business setup in Dubai and can help you with licensing visas, and much more.

Benefits of starting a building maintenance business in Dubai

A world of potential clients is obviously one of the major pulls when starting a building maintenance company in Dubai, but it’s far from the only one.

You also need to consider the UAE’s attractive tax rate of 0% on personal income. And then there are the many benefits of setting up in a Dubai free zone. These include total freedom to repatriate capital and profits.

When you start your business in Meydan Free Zone, you’ll also benefit from:

Premier location
Being at one of the most sought-after centrally located commercial addresses in Dubai puts you minutes away from major pulse points and the city’s vital commercial and financial hubs.

Easy start up
Benefit from a smooth registration process with access to priority government relations assistance and broad support services tailored to address your individual business needs.

A great place to live and work
Take advantage of the unique opportunity to live and work in Meydan’s premium mixed-use developments offering innovative office spaces that encourage business growth.

Steps to start building a maintenance business in Dubai

Before embarking on your license application, you should first familiarise yourself with the local business landscape. While the UAE corporate environment is welcoming, with low barriers to entry, there are some ways in which it differs from other countries.

One of the first things you’ll need to do, which is perhaps not such an involved process in other parts of the world, is choosing your company name.

The UAE has a set of naming parameters that you’ll need to stick to. But don’t worry, all are straightforward and largely common sense. Essentially, you should avoid blasphemous and offensive language and the names of well-known organisations. There are a few more rules, too, which we will cover in your initial consultation.

You’ll need to register your chosen company name with the relevant Department of Economic Development or Municipality. Your contact at Meydan can handle this step for you.

It is also important when starting any business in the UAE that you clearly define your intended business activities. There are a few subsectors within the maintenance field – plumbing, heating, cleaning, and many more — so you’ll need to be specific as to the activities that you intend to carry out.

Your chosen activities will be listed on your trade license. And most importantly, you are not permitted to carry out any operations outside of these. However, you are permitted to add several activities to your license.

With this early part of the process successfully navigated, Meydan Free Zone can help you apply for your building maintenance license. There are several ways to do this.

You can set up a mainland business anywhere in the UAE. Or, you can set up a free zone business in a designated zone such as Meydan Free Zone.

When making your application, you will need to submit an application form containing details about your business and its shareholders, as well as proof of address and identification.

If you are intending to operate your business from the UAE, you will also require a visa. As part of this process, you’ll need to undergo a fitness test, blood test, and chest x-ray. You can also sponsor the visas of others, such as dependent children and parents, your spouse, and any domestic staff.

Finally, if you’re getting paid in the UAE, you’ll need a UAE bank account. Meydan Free Zone can help with this step, too, advising on the right bank for your circumstances.

What is the cost of starting a building maintenance company in Dubai?

The cost of starting a building maintenance company in Dubai starts in the region for AED 12,500-35,000 inclusive of formation and application costs.

However, total final costs will depend on many factors, including the size, nature and location of your business.

For a full breakdown, get in touch with the team at Meydan Free Zone.

Take your business to new heights at Meydan Free Zone

Meydan Free Zone is a thriving, centrally located economic district with one of the most prestigious business addresses in the region.

We offer our businesses a host of innovative investment and lifestyle benefits in a secure, regulated environment that empowers productivity. And we can help you join them too.

Our expert team can assist across the entire company formation journey, from registering your company name to managing your license and visa applications.

Dubai is built for business growth. And thousands of entrepreneurs set up out here every year for that reason.

But as businesses grow, they need to add to their workforce, a process that is not without challenges anywhere in the world. Here in Dubai, with its high expatriate workforce, standardised contracts, and mandatory benefits, it requires an even more expert eye.

For that reason, most businesses seek the services of a recruitment agency or HR consultant to help them employ the best available talent.

With so many businesses in the UAE, recruitment services demand is always high.

And when you start a UAE business with the help of Meydan Free Zone, you can be up and running in no time. Our team are experts in business setup in Dubai and can help you with licensing visas and much more.

Inquire Now

The benefits of starting a recruitment agency in Dubai

The vast and growing market is just one of the many great reasons to start a recruitment agency in Dubai. The emirate is also home to a time-tested company formation process built for ease and welcoming to entrepreneurs from every corner of the world.

That’s on top of the UAE’s highly attractive 0% tax rate on corporate and personal income. When you set up in a UAE free zone, the benefits continue. Free zone businesses also receive 100% customs tax exemption and the freedom to repatriate capital and profits.

Set up in Meydan Free Zone, and you’ll also benefit from:

• Premier location
  Being at one of the most sought-after centrally located commercial addresses in Dubai puts you minutes away from major pulse points and the city’s vital commercial and financial hubs.
• Easy start-up
  Benefit from a smooth registration process with access to priority government relations assistance and broad support services tailored to address your individual business needs.
• A great place to live and work
  Take advantage of the unique opportunity to live and work in Meydan’s premium mixed-use developments offering innovative office spaces that encourage business growth.

Membership of the Meydan Group enjoys unparalleled benefits, including access to a fully equipped business centre, luxurious hotel accommodations and the group’s comprehensive support network.

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The steps to open a recruitment agency in Dubai

Whether you want to start an HR consultancy in Dubai or become a recruitment consultant in Dubai, you’ll first need to familiarise yourself with the local business landscape. It’s a good idea to partner with a UAE free zone at this stage. At Meydan Free Zone, we can guide you through the following process.

First, we’ll help you choose and register your company name.

The UAE has a very clear set of naming parameters that you’ll need to stick to. But don’t worry; all are straightforward and largely common sense. Essentially, you should avoid blasphemous and offensive language and the names of well-known organisations. We will also cover a few more rules in your initial consultation.

When setting up in the UAE, it is also important to align your business practices to the list of permitted activities. So, if you are starting a recruitment agency, becoming an HR consultant, or any other related activity, these will need to be clearly stated on your license.

You are not allowed to carry out activities other than those you are licensed for. However, you may include multiple business activities and can add more later.

Meydan Free Zone Trade Licenses Can Have Up To 3 Business Activity Groups.

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With this early part of the process successfully navigated, we can help you apply for your recruitment license. There are a couple of common ways to do this.

When making your application, you will need to submit a form containing details about your business and its shareholders and proof of address and identification.

If you intend to operate your business from the UAE, you will also require a visa. As part of this process, you will be required to undergo a fitness test, blood test, and chest x-ray. You can also sponsor the visas of others, such as dependent children and parents, your spouse, and any domestic staff.

Finally, if you’re getting paid in the UAE, you’ll need a corporate bank account. Meydan Free Zone can help with this step, too, advising on the right financial institution for your needs and circumstances.

The cost of opening a recruitment agency in Dubai

The cost of starting a recruitment agency in Dubai will depend on many factors. Your business location, activities, and size will all play a part.

Inquire Now

For a full breakdown of costs get in touch with the team at Meydan Free Zone.

Take your business to new heights at Meydan Free Zone

Meydan Free Zone is a thriving, centrally located economic district with one of the most prestigious business addresses in the region.

We offer our businesses a host of innovative investment and lifestyle benefits in a secure, regulated environment that empowers productivity. And we can help you join them too.

Our expert team can assist the entire company formation journey, from registering your company name to managing your license and visa applications.

With around 15m visitors travelling to Dubai every year, the emirate is a hotspot for holiday home rental.

Knight Frank’s Dubai Holiday Homes Market Review 2019 reported over 10,000 active listings out of a total of 20,395 present on Airbnb. At the time, Dubai’s holiday homes accounted for 2% of the emirate’s total households.

As the world reopens following the events of 2020, we can only expect these figures to increase. And for entrepreneurs looking to enter this space, now is the time.

Whether you intend to list your own properties or manage accommodation on behalf of others, when you set up with the help of Meydan Free Zone, you can be up and running in no time. Our team are experts in business setup in Dubai and can help you with licensing, visas, and much more.

Holiday Homes in UAE

With Dubai’s contribution to the World Expo 2020, and booming real estate industry, holiday homes are the new choice that the market is optimistic about. A prominent reason as to why entrepreneurs visiting Dubai are positively attracted to holiday homes would be because of its higher revenue generation in comparison to regular apartment renting and annual home rents. With fascinating technological facilities, luxury-embedded tourism, and a prosperous economy, holiday homes in the UAE may be a potentially profitable option for earning significant income in the UAE.

Benefits of Starting a Holiday Home Business in Dubai

Impressive returns and increasing demand are two of the many reasons to start a holiday home business in Dubai. But they are just the beginning. Yet they are only a few of the many benefits you will receive by obtaining a holiday home license in Dubai.

There is also the UAE’s attractive tax rate of 0% on both corporate and personal income. Plus, the many benefits of setting up in a Dubai free zone, including 100% customs tax exemption and the freedom to repatriate capital and profits.

When you start your business in Meydan Free Zone, you’ll also benefit from:

Premier location

Being at one of the most sought after centrally located commercial addresses in Dubai puts you minutes away from major pulse points and vital commercial and financial hubs of the city. Being surrounded by towering skyscrapers clad in glass, having access to some of the world’s most efficient infrastructure systems and witnessing an ample of entertainment or enjoying dozens of eateries will definitely attract a large base of potential customers that would want to rent your home for a fantastic holiday.

Easy startup

Benefit from a smooth registration process with access to priority government relations assistance and broad support services, tailored to address your individual business needs. From services ranging from documentation to bank account setups, Meydan Free Zone is ready to help throughout all the processes and requirements.

A great place to live and work

Take advantage of the unique opportunity to live and work in Meydan’s premium mixed-use developments offering innovative office spaces that encourage business growth. You can access great hotelier services, work environments designed for higher productivity and businesses with support services to amp up your marketing and advertising of holiday home management.

Steps to Get your Holiday Home License in Dubai, UAE

At Meydan Free Zone, we can guide you through the following steps to help you secure your holiday home license in Dubai.

The first step is to choose and register your company name.

The UAE has a very clear set of a naming parameters that you’ll need to stick to. But don’t worry, all are straightforward and largely common sense. Essentially, you should avoid blasphemous and offensive language and names of well-known organisations. There are a few more rules too which we will cover in your initial consultation.

At this stage, it is also important to align your business practices to the list of permitted activities. Holiday homes businesses operate under the activity ‘Vacation Homes Rental’. The objective here is to receive instant approval from the Department of Economic Development (DED) where your business name and activities are reviewed for appropriateness and suitability to Dubai’s regulations.

This allows you to rent accommodation ‘…to vacationers on a daily, weekly, monthly or annual basis.’

With this early part of the process successfully navigated, we can help you apply for your holiday home license. You can apply for your holiday home license in the Dubai mainland or in a UAE free zone such as Meydan depending on your business objectives, target customers and activities.

As part of your trade license application, you will need to submit a form containing details about your business and its shareholders, as well as proof of address and identification.

As well as obtaining your trade license, you will also need to gain approval from the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM). Your properties must be registered and inspected regularly as part of this approval process.

Once approved, you will receive an official DTCM certificate of registration which must be displayed within your property.

We’ll also help you obtain your visa. As part of this process, you will be required to undergo a fitness test, blood test, and chest x-ray. You can also sponsor the visas of others such as dependent children and parents, your spouse, and any domestic staff.

Finally, if you’re getting paid in the UAE, you’ll need a corporate bank account. Meydan Free Zone can help with this step too, advising on the right financial institution for your needs and circumstances.

Cost of a Holiday Home License in Dubai, UAE

The cost of starting a holiday home rental business in Dubai will depend on many factors. You will need to account for both your trade license and DTCM fees.

There is another fee to consider too. A levy of AED 300 per year is applied for each room that you rent out, up to an annual total of AED 1,200. Plus, an additional tourism fee of AED 10-15 per bedroom.

Then, of course, there is the cost of maintaining, managing, and listing your property. For a full breakdown of costs get in touch with the team at Meydan Free Zone.

Working with Meydan Free Zone

Meydan Free Zone is a thriving, centrally located economic district with one of the most prestigious business addresses in the region.

We offer our businesses a host of innovative investment and lifestyle benefits in a secure regulated environment that empowers productivity. And we can help you join them too.

Our expert team can assist across the entire company formation journey, from registering your company name to managing your license and visa applications.

Thanks to its excellent infrastructure, proximity to some of the world’s busiest sea- and airports, and ideal trading location between East and West, few goods are not imported and exported to and from the UAE.

And one trade that is always active is foodstuffs. The UAE trades all manner of ingredients, fruit, vegetables, meat and more around the world. The country’s food imports are expected to reach USD 400 billion by 2025. Compared to 2015, that’s an increase of USD 100 billion.

For those with the skills and determination required to trade, the foodstuffs industry in the UAE represents a vast and sustainable opportunity. And when you start your UAE company with the help of Meydan Free Zone, the process can be quick and easy. Our team are experts in business setup in Dubai and can help you with licensing visas and much more.

The advantages of starting a foodstuff trading business in Dubai, UAE  

The advantages of starting a foodstuff trading business in Dubai, UAE   

As I’ve already mentioned, the UAE benefits from one of the world’s most convenient trading locations, right at the heart of Africa, Asia, and Europe.   

Our incredible infrastructure, efficient customs procedures, and minimal bureaucracy also make this a prime location from which to trade. And don’t forget, UAE businesses benefit from a tax rate of 0% on both corporate and personal income.   

When you start your food trading business in a free zone, there are even more advantages. These include 100% customs tax exemption and the freedom to repatriate capital and profits. 

What activities are under the foodstuff  trading license in Dubai?

A UAE foodstuffs trading license allows you to import, export, and sell a wide range of food and beverages, including:

• Cooking oils
• Flour
• Juice
• Malt
• Meat products
• Mineral water
• Soft drinks
• Spices

The Procedure to get a Dubai foodstuff trading license

The process of obtaining a foodstuff trading license in the UAE can be fast, affordable, and straightforward. But to ensure this is the case, it always pays to partner with a local expert who can manage the procedure for you.   

When you establish your trading business at Meydan Free Zone, our expert team can guide you through the following company formation process.   

We will start by helping you to choose and then register your company name. We will ask you to submit a completed application form containing details about your business and its shareholders and proof of address and identification for KYC and UBO on our online portal. You can consequently apply for visas, more activities, third-party approvals, and banking from one online portal.    

Dubai Municipality Involvement   

We can also help you gain the required approvals from the Dubai Municipality Food Control department if required.    

The Dubai Municipality (DM) is a government body whose food safety department is accountable for evaluating and managing best practices in the foodstuff businesses in Dubai. Therefore, all foodstuff trading companies in the city must register with the Dubai Municipality. 

• List your company in the Food Import and Re-Export System (FIRS) in the DM. This will allow you to put in requests for food imports, and you can effortlessly check the status of your import from its inspection to release.   
• To confirm that your food labelling is in agreement with the government standard, it is important that you acquire a food label approval for all importing food.   
• For the importing items, you should also obtain a FIT analysis.   

• It is also advised that you take care of registering all food items in the FIRS before importing them.   

The documents needed to get a foodstuff trading license in Dubai, UAE  

When applying for a foodstuffs trading license in the UAE, you may be asked to provide any of the following documents.   

• Completed application form on our Online Portal    
• Coloured passport copies of the company’s shareholders, managers, and directors   
• Specimen signature of the company’s shareholders, managers, and directors  

After a free consultation, your Meydan Free Zone contact will let you know precisely what is required. We’ll also check your documents and application to ensure all are present and correct.   

Take Your Business To New Heights At Meydan Free Zone   

Meydan Free Zone is a thriving, centrally located economic district with one of the most prestigious business addresses in the region. 

We offer our businesses a host of innovative investment and lifestyle benefits in a secure, regulated environment that empowers productivity. And we can help you join them too.    

Our expert team can assist the entire company formation journey, from registering your company name to managing your license and visa applications.   

When you think Dubai, you think money. That’s no doubt largely down to the nation’s many incredible ambitious building projects. The supercars on its streets. And the high rises in its skyline.

But there’s another reason too. Dubai is fast becoming one of the world’s top financial hubs. From its incredible location in the centre of the world’s financial markets, the emirate is home to a vast array of banks, trading houses, hedge funds, and many more financial institutions.

And while the financial services industry is heavily regulated in Dubai, provided you can meet the auditing and compliance criteria, the set-up process doesn’t have to be long-winded.

To ensure a smooth and speedy incorporation process, start your financial services business with the help of Meydan Free Zone. Our team are experts in business setup in Dubai and can help you with licensing, visas, and much more.

What are Financial Services and What are Their Types?

Financial services refers to insitutions that provide their services to people and organisations that need assistance with the generation, investment and management of money and cash flows.

Insurance, budgeting, and brokerage are usually offered by financial services businesses. Dubai is a business hub that bustles with stocks and flows of revenue, money, profits and capital flows, transforming the Emirate into a financial hub with services to aid economic services encompassing financial markets and trade.

Following are some examples of financial services:

• Commercial projects
  Attracting and placing funds in commercial business projects/assets, and management.
• Operations with securities
  Financial instruments, investment and client (intermediary) activities in financial markets.
• Financial products
  Providing direct and trade financing, issuing credit cards and financial products.
• Payment service provider
  License of Payment Service Provider (PSP) – activities for receiving and processing payments for third parties.
• Investment consulting
  Providing a range of services related to optimizing the use of assets, attracting and placing investments. along with careful and detailed analysis of potential markets and projects to invest in.
• FinTech licenses
  Financial services used to boost business performance and process optimisation with the use of innovative technologies and Big Data, artificial intelligence, blockchain.
• Insurance and reinsurance
  Providing insurance and reinsurance products and services to individuals and companies.
• Creating Investment Funds
  Pooling funds of private persons and legal entities for the purposes of joint investment.
• Asset trust management
  Placement of investors’ funds in company assets and financial products for a fee.

The benefits of starting a financial services business in Dubai

• 0% tax rate on corporate and personal income
• Zero currency restrictions
• Repatriation of capital and profits
• Premier office location

When it comes to starting a financial services company out here, you can immediately take advantage of the country’s 0% tax rate on corporate and personal income.

When you setup in Meydan Free Zone, you will also benefit from zero currency restrictions and repatriation of capital and profits.

And that’s not all. At Meydan, you get a premier location at one of Dubai’s most prestigious addresses, a choice of tailored support packages to help your business get up and running, access to a dynamic living and working environment, and use of our world-class business centre.

Plus, you’ll benefit from a smooth registration process with access to priority government relations assistance and broad support services, along with tailored packages that best address your individual business needs. Starting a financial services business in the UAE can help you unlock perks of conducting business surrounded by effective infrastructure whilst cutting down start-up costs abundantly. With innovative structure to jump-start your financial services business ideas and flexible regulatory environments, conducting your business activities will be seamless in nature.

Steps to start a financial services business in Dubai, UAE

At Meydan Free Zone, we can guide you through the entire process below, starting with company name registration.

It is also important when setting up in the UAE that you align your business practices to the list of permitted activities. There is a wide range of financial services activities to choose from, so you’re sure to find one that matches up. These activities will need to be listed on your license application. And, most importantly, you are not permitted to carry out any operations outside of these. However, you are permitted to add several activities to your license.

It is also important to note here that all financial services businesses in the UAE must be approved either by the Central Bank or by the Emirates Securities and Commodities Authority (ESCA) based on activity name. You can connect with us on 800FZ1 to know more about these business activities.

As part of the conditions of your license, you will need to adhere to UAE’s Know Your Customer (KYC) regulation, as well as Anti-money laundering regulations.

If you intend on operating your business from the UAE, you will also require a visa.

Finally, you’ll need a UAE bank account. Meydan Free Zone can help with this step too, advising on the right bank for your circumstances.

Requirements of UAE government regulators

• State control
  There are different state requirements depending on the type of activity and jurisdiction of incorporation. The main regulatory bodies are: CB – the Central Bank of the UAE, the Financial and Commodity Markets Management Committee (SCA), and the Police.
• Share capital
  In most cases, there are requirements relating to the amount of authorized capital, the minimum level of which varies from 41 000 US dollars to 1.4 million. In rare cases, for complex licenses, the authorized capital required can be as much as US dollars 8-14 million or more.
• Bank guarantee
  The State has established requirements for a bank guarantee for the fulfillment of financial obligations to third parties. The amount of the guarantee depends on the type of financial or investment activity. Sometimes the deposit required can be quite significant.
• Qualified personnel
  There are requirements related to staffing levels and skills, covering financial managers, analysts, specialists in internal control over financial transactions, as well as a general manager with the appropriate level of education or qualifications.
• Equipped office
  Financial and investment companies are subject to a number of requirements related to having a physical office, equipped according to the regulatory standards and international norms. It must be also appropriate for confirming it as the business decision-making center in accordance with the requirements of Economic Substance.
• Internal control
  Regulators are obliged to ensure a system of internal control is in place and strict compliance with the law in order to minimize risks. They also look for mechanisms and processes that ensure compliance with money laundering legislation.

The cost of starting a financial services business in Dubai

The cost of your UAE financial services license will start from AED 12,500 and will largely depend on the number of visas, offices you may require.

Take your business to new heights at Meydan Free Zone

Meydan Free Zone is a thriving, centrally located economic district with one of the most prestigious business addresses in the region.

We offer our businesses a host of innovative investment and lifestyle benefits in a secure regulated environment that empowers productivity. And we can help you join them too.

Our expert team can assist across the entire company formation journey, from registering your company name to managing your license , visa applications and PRO services.

FAQ 1: What do financial services companies do?

Financial services companies primarily provide assurance and other services to financial institutions like banks, insurance companies, and organisations. Finance can be a tricky prospect to tackle, although it is the basis of all activities operational and managerial. Financial services covers a myriad of transactions including aid in insurance, banking, intermediation, investment and financial planning with utmost ease.

FAQ 2: How to start a financial services business?

You can start a financial services business by examining which activities you would like to pursue in your business, decide on a trading name that adheres to UAE regulations provided by the Department of Economic Development (DED), obtain your professional license by providing proper documentation and contacting relevant authorities, and finally, open up your bank account after applying for needed visas.

FAQ 3: How much does it cost to start a finance company?

In Dubai, you will come across extremely affordable business set-up costs in free zones. Although, if you are looking for lower business costs in general, registering your business in a free zone like Meydan may be ideal. Since financial services come under professional licensing, prices for a license will start from AED 12.500. A business would also incur costs of paying fees to governmental authorities like the Ministry of Economy, visa fees, medical insurance, and application process fees.

FAQ 4: What are the UAE regulations in starting a financial services company?

When starting a financial services company in the UAE, it’s vital to adhere to regulations specific to permitted activities and trade names. Moreover, when tackling banking, gather knowledge on Islamic banking and specific Dubai regulations of business conduct.

Dubai is the home of business networking. And while the world has moved online over the past year, there’s nothing UAE-based entrepreneurs like more than rubbing shoulders at events, expos, and exhibitions. Whether it’s the Grand Dubai Expo, international sports competitions, conferences, or events with high prize money, high-profile events are a regular occurrence in the UAE. From art and culture to music and sport, Dubai takes center stage for some of the world’s most prestigious gatherings.

Such is our appetite that the events industry contributes over USD 3 billion to Dubai’s economy. Expo 2020’s mega-success – an event that welcomed 22 million visitors in six months made history while bringing the world together.

Dubai has been named the number one destination globally for association meetings and business events in 2021 by the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) report. The newly-published ICCA Statistics Report, published by state news agency WAM, ranked Dubai the top city in 2021 for the number of meetings organised by international associations and estimated participants at these events.

If you have experience managing such occasions, a significant opportunity may be waiting for you in the UAE. And when you start an event management business in the UAE with the help of Meydan Free Zone, you can be up and running in no time. Our team of experts in business setup in Dubai can help you with licensing, visas, and much more.

What is Event Management?

Event management refers to a wide range of activities involved in the organisation of large-scale events. Examples include conventions, conferences, concerts, trade fairs, festivals, and ceremonies. It entails managing the event’s overall logistics, collaborating with staff, and managing the event as a whole. Additional responsibilities of an event manager may include managing the budget and the teams of persons responsible for each function, as well as overseeing the event’s execution. Event management also oversees all outside vendors and specialists, including event planners.

The Benefits Of Starting An Events Company In Dubai, UAE

Dubai is often dubbed as the event capital of the Middle East. This is because no locations like this one exist in the events business. But apart from the high demand for your services, there are many other reasons to set up your event management business out here.

Start Your Events Company Now With AED 1,042 Per Month

The UAE’s attractive tax rate of 0% on personal income is understandably a significant draw, and the benefits continue when you set up in a free zone. These include total freedom to repatriate capital and profits.

When you start your business in Meydan Free Zone, you’ll also benefit from:

● Premier Office Location from Meydan Hotel
● Easy start-up with 100% Ownership
● A great place to work, live and play

Types Of Event Management Services

Event Management

Professional event managers are adept in event planning and executing technical and artistic aspects. They first identify the audience of each event and go out of their way to understand the client’s brand and budget, whether it’s a trade exhibition, product launch, wedding, cocktail party, awards ceremony, or sit-down gala dinner.

Event Coordination

Event coordinators specialise in creating novel ways to inspire, communicate, and amuse. Lighting, décor, catering, theming, styling, sound, vision, and entertainment are among the most significant parts of event production.

Décor Hiring Services

These businesses specialise in providing décor hire services to meet clients’ needs for their next special event.

Conferences And Venue Sourcing Services

Event management companies work with clients to develop a distinct conference identity through rigorous content programming and extensive logistic planning, which can include—

• Ground transportation
• Delegation of accommodation booking and venue sourcing
• Social and partner activities
• Involvement of guest speakers and facilitators
• Management of all audiovisual needs

Event Planning Services

Event managers eliminate the hassle of preparing a special event by staying ahead of the market. They may source breathtaking floral arrangements, comfortable linens, and unique entertainment alternatives to make an event unforgettable.

The Cost Of An Event Management License In Dubai

When you set up in Meydan Free Zone, the cost of an event management license will start at AED 12,500. You can also operate under a Flexi desk license, allowing you access to business facilities like desk space and Wi-Fi with no overheads.

When you partner with Meydan Free Zone, you benefit from our expertise so that you can go into the company formation process with total confidence.

Planning to Setup an Event Management Business In Dubai?

Steps to start an event management company in Dubai and UAE

When setting up an events business in the Emirates, the first thing to do is to familiarise yourself with its corporate landscape. While the UAE is welcoming with low barriers to entry, there are some ways in which it differs from much of the rest of the world.

When you partner with Meydan Free Zone, you benefit from our expertise so that you can go into the company formation process with total confidence.

• Choose Your Business NameThis is crucial because the UAE has set some guidelines in this area. For example, the name should be memorable, unique, and not blasphemous; no abbreviations should be used, and only complete names should be utilised.
• Confirm All The Business Activities Under Events As A Part Of Your License Application.Identify the types of business activities that you intend to carry out within your events management company. While the license permits you to engage in a number of activities ranging from hospitality to event promotion, you are still needed to describe the activities, and failure to do so may result in penalties.
• Choose The Company Shareholder Structure And ManagerDetermining the correct legal structure is an essential part of establishing a business. The most common are sole proprietorships, partnerships, limited liability companies, corporations and cooperatives, each with its own approach to liability, risks, and taxes.
• Apply Online On Our Customer Portal Dubai Economy and Tourism Department (DET), formerly The Department of Economic Development (DED), handles the event management license in Dubai. First, you must submit a completed application form, all necessary documentation, and two colored passport-sized pictures. Then, use our customer portal to apply.
• Choose Your Visa Requirements You will need a visa for yourself, your business partners, or any employees. The maximum number of visas you can apply for is determined by the license type you hold and your company size.
• Apply for your Business Bank AccountA corporate bank account in the UAE is the most convenient and safe way to send and receive money in Dubai. Many UAE banks also provide multicurrency accounts, allowing you to send and accept payments from anywhere in the world. A UAE bank account is often required to obtain other types of credit.

GET YOUR ZERO-BALANCE BUSINESS ACCOUNT

Important things to keep in mind after obtaining an event management license in Dubai, UAE:

• In case of an event withdrawal, you are completely responsible for reimbursing ticket money.
• The sale and promotion of event tickets outside any of the Free Zones are subject to the guiding principle of proper authorities (DET – Formerly DED, DTCM, DM).
• The sale and promotion of event tickets in other geographies are subject to laws, rules, and regulations of the authorities of the respective Emirate.
• Tickets, posters, leaflets, or any form of information should mention any related general public information at all times.

Why Start An Event Management Business In Meydan Free Zone?

The GCC hospitality industry is continuing on its upward trajectory. The local events sector is eager and proactive in keeping up with this global and regional trend, and Dubai has grown at a rate of 25% per annum in recent years. If you are setting up an event management company in Dubai, look no further than Meydan Free Zone.

Meydan Free Zone is a thriving, centrally located economic district with one of the most prestigious business addresses in the region. Located in The Meydan Hotel, it is 15 minutes from Dubai International Airport and has convenient access to Downtown Dubai and Sheikh Zayed Road. You will also have access to a fully equipped Business Centre and monthly networking events as a member of the Meydan Free Zone family. Our Business Centre delivers a world-class professional setting and an atmosphere that encourages performance while still providing privacy.

We offer our businesses a host of innovative investment and lifestyle benefits in a secure, regulated environment that empowers productivity. And we can help you join them too. Our expert team can assist through every stage of your business setup in Dubai, from registering your company name to managing your license and visa applications.

Calculate your Event Management License Costs Now

Education has been a big business for decades. The vast global market was estimated to be worth around USD 90bn in 2020, with compound annual growth of 19.9% predicted between now and 2028.

Traditionally, there were only a few ways into the education sector. For example, you would have previously needed to have been qualified as a teacher or lecturer and get a job at a school, college, or university. Today, there are many other options available.

Online learning has been growing in popularity for many years. However, it has seen a considerable spike due to the pandemic – with many learners moving online. This change has also significantly increased the demand for educational consultants who can advise on how best to navigate this new normal.

This presents an opportunity for those looking to offer educational services outside the more traditional settings.

If this sounds appealing, Meydan Free Zone can help you start a UAE education business in weeks. Our team is experts in business setup in Dubai and can help you with licensing visas and much more.

START YOUR BUSINESS NOW WITH AED 1,042 PER MONTH

The benefits of starting educational consultancy business in Dubai, UAE

Business setup in Dubai is trendy, and with good reason. The emirate is home to one of the world’s most open and supportive corporate environments and regularly ranks highly for ease of doing business.

With the right support, the company formation process is also incredibly straightforward. You can often be up and running within a week or two.

Then there are the UAE’s free zones. Free zones are often the most cost-effective way to incorporate a business in the UAE, and they bring a host of other incredible benefits.

When you set up at Meydan Free Zone, for example, you can benefit from:

• Premier location
  Being at one of Dubai’s most sought-after centrally located commercial addresses, Meydan Free Zone puts you minutes away from the major pulse points and the city’s vital commercial and financial hubs.
• Easy start up
  Your license application is just minutes away, log onto our digital portal and apply for your license, additional services, amendments or even your bank account from anywhere. Benefit from a smooth registration process with access to priority government relations assistance, broad support services, and tailored packages that best address individual business needs.
• A great place to live and work
  Take advantage of the unique opportunity to live and work in Meydan’s premium mixed-use developments offering innovative office spaces that encourage business growth. Live in spacious villas with elegant lifestyle communities or find adventure with our community benefits of dining, spas, hotel amenities, park, beach, tennis or simply horse riding.

START YOUR BUSINESS NOW with an Instant IBAN

Steps to start an educational consultancy business in Dubai, UAE

The first step is to familiarise yourself with the UAE’s business landscape, processes, and policies. While the Emirates is famed for its welcoming approach and low barriers to entry, the company formation process does differ somewhat from other countries. 

Whatever type of business you wish to set up, it is best to do so with the help of an expert such as Meydan Free Zone. 

One of the first things we’ll help you do is choose your company name. The UAE has a set of naming parameters you’ll need to stick to. But don’t worry; all are straightforward and largely common sense. Essentially, you should avoid blasphemous and offensive language and names of well-known organisations. We will also cover a few more rules in your initial consultation. 

You’ll also need to align your business practices with the  list of permitted activities. There are thousands to choose from, so you’re sure to find one that matches up. These activities will need to be listed on your license application. And most importantly, you are not permitted to carry out any operations outside these. However, you are permitted to add several activities to your license. 

When making your application, you must submit an application form containing details about your business and its shareholders, proof of address and identification, and your KYC and UBO declaration via an online portal.  

There are no official qualifications required to become a consultant in the UAE. However, if you intend to offer other educational services, such as tutoring, you will need to prove that you have relevant experience and qualifications. 

You’ll also need to apply for your visa. As part of this process, you’ll undergo a fitness test, blood test, and chest x-ray. You can also sponsor the visas of others, such as dependent children and parents, your spouse, and any domestic staff. 

Finally, if you’re getting paid in the UAE, you’ll need a UAE bank account. Meydan Free Zone can help with this step, too, advising on the right bank for your circumstances. 

START YOUR BUSINESS NOW with an Instant IBAN

How Meydan Free Zone can help

With education being a fundamental priority to UAE’s goals, starting a business in the education sector has never been more promising. Whether starting a business in Meydan Free Zone or an online educational consultancy, our team of specialists can help you get your business up and running in no time!

Meydan Free Zone offers our businesses a host of innovative investment and lifestyle benefits in a secure, regulated environment that empowers productivity. Our expert team can assist through every stage of your business setup in Dubai, from registering your company name to managing your license and visa applications.

Call us at to  800FZ1.  discover what Meydan Free Zone can do to get you back to handling your business!

It will come as a surprise to no one that e-commerce is big business in the modern world. From clothes and food to tech and travel, we can now purchase almost anything online. And this is no passing trend. It is now a way of life.

Despite a challenging year for retail, global e-commerce sales grew 27.6% in 2020, totalling over USD 4tr. And this figure is expected to increase significantly in the coming years, up to USD 6.4tr by 2024.

Here in the UAE, signs are just as strong. Our e-commerce market topped a record-breaking USD 3.9bn in 2020, representing a 53% increase on 2019. By 2025, the market is expected to be worth a staggering USD 8bn. Whatever your business, there is space for you in this vast market. And when you start a UAE business with the help of Meydan Free Zone, you can be up and running in no time. Our team are experts in business setup in Dubai and can help you with licensing, visas, and much more.

How to start a successful e-commerce business in Dubai?

How to get your e-commerce license?

Of course, the first thing you’ll need to know is how to get your e-commerce license. It’s important that you familiarise yourself with the local business landscape at this point. While it is welcoming, and with low barriers to entry, the UAE differs slightly from other countries when it comes to starting a business. One of the first things you’ll need to do, which is perhaps not such a priority elsewhere, is

1. Choosing and registering your company name.

   The UAE has a set of naming parameters that you’ll need to stick to. But don’t worry, all are straightforward and of largely common sense. Essentially, you should avoid blasphemous and offensive language and names of well-known organisations. There are a few more rules too which we will cover in your initial consultation.

2. Selecting your business activities.

   It is also important when setting up in the UAE that you align your business practices to the list of permitted activities. There are thousands to choose from, so you’re bound to find one that matches up, the best one is to go for e-commerce, e-trading or selling via internet. These activities will need to be listed on your license application. With this early part of the process successfully navigated, we can help you apply for your e-commerce license. There are several ways to do this.

3. Complete your KYC.

   When making your application, you will need to submit an business license application form containing details about your business and its shareholders, as well as proof of address and identification for the purpose of completing your KYC and UBO details.

4. Complete your visa application, apply for medical test & biometrics.

   If you are intending to operate your business from the UAE, you will also require a visa. As part of this process, you’ll need to undergo a fitness test, blood test, and chest x-ray. You can also sponsor the visas of others, such as dependent children and parents, your spouse, and any domestic staff.

5. Set up your business bank account.

   Finally, if you’re getting paid in the UAE, you’ll need a UAE bank account. Meydan Free Zone can help with this step too, advising on the right bank for your circumstances. We offer 0 balance bank account that help start-ups and have partnerships with leading local and international banks in the country.

The benefits of setting up in a UAE free zone

UAE free zones are not just good value for money, they also offer many other incredible benefits. On top of the UAE’s great trading location, excellent access to markets around the world, and growing e-commerce market, when you set up in Meydan Free Zone, you can also take advantage of the following.

• Premier location
  Being at one of the most sought after centrally located commercial addresses in Dubai puts you minutes away from major pulse points and vital commercial and financial hubs of the city.
• Easy start up
  Benefit from smooth registration process with access to priority government relations assistance and broad support services, along with tailored packages that best address individual business needs.
• A great place to live and work
  Take advantage of the unique opportunity to live and work in Meydan’s premium mixed-use developments offering innovative office spaces that encourage business growth in elegant lifestyle communities.

Take your business to new heights at Meydan Free Zone

Meydan Free Zone has been awarded the Best Digital Free Zone and is centrally located economic district with one of the most prestigious business addresses in the region. Our offices are located in The Meydan Hotel.

We offer our businesses a host of innovative investment and lifestyle benefits in a secure regulated environment that empowers productivity. Our expert team can assist across the entire company formation journey, from registering your company name to managing your license and visa applications.

Apply Now

The UAE is one of the world’s most prestigious trading locations. Every year, thousands of new businesses head to our emirate to turn their business dreams into reality.

Thousands more renew business licenses, apply for visas, open bank accounts and submit various business documents. And while Dubai designs its business processes to be as simple as possible, it always helps to have an expert eye.

For that reason, Dubai’s entrepreneurs and business owners turn to corporate services companies to ensure a smooth process when drafting and submitting important applications and documentation.

Corporate services companies provide a wide range of services, encompassing everything from bookkeeping to visa applications.

And when you start a UAE business with the help of Meydan Free Zone, you can be up and running in no time. Our team are expert in business setup in Dubai and can help you with licensing visas and much more.

Services offered by corporate service providers in Dubai, UAE

Corporate services is a broad industry. Some providers may specialise in certain areas, whereas others offer a wide range of services. Common services offered by providers in the UAE include:

• Accounting and bookkeeping
• Bank account opening
• Corporate governance services
• Document attestation
• EJARI services
• Visa assistance

Steps to become a corporate service provider in Dubai, UAE

1. Choose your company name and type ( LLC  or Branch).
2. Choose your 3 business activities.
3. Confirm all shareholders’ or business partners’ nationalities and places of birth.
4. Choose your visa requirement – Investor or Employment
5. Apply on Meydan Free Zone’s digital portal for your license application and any other service related to your company in future.
6. Apply for your medical biometrics for Emirates ID for the purpose of applying for your business visa.
7. Lastly, apply for your business bank account.

Contact Meydan Free Zone at 800FZ1 to know more

Corporate service provider license costs in Dubai, UAE

The cost of Corporate Service Provider license starts at AED 35/day with Meydan Free Zone. All our licenses come with a free flexidesk, MOFA recognized business license, bank account opening with IBAN in 4 days and 100% foreign ownership.

Features of Meydan Free Zone

• Premier location
  Being at one of the most sought-after centrally located commercial addresses in Dubai puts you only minutes away from major pulse points and vital commercial and financial hubs of the city.
• Easy start-up
  A smooth registration process with access to priority government relations assistance and broad support services. Along with tailored packages that best address individual business needs.
• A great place to live and work
  Take advantage of the unique opportunity to live and work in Meydan’s premium mixed-use developments offering innovative office spaces that encourage business growth in elegant lifestyle communities. To find out more, visit our website, or get in touch with us via setup@meydanfz.ae or 800FZ1.

Among Dubai’s many attractions are its buildings. A diverse group of businesses and residents occupy these prestigious buildings. Regardless of their shape, size, or color, these buildings all share one everyday necessity, they all require cleaning. With new constructions breaking ground seemingly every day, the demand for building cleaning services is unlikely to slow down any time soon.

If you are considering starting a business in the UAE, starting a Building Cleaning Company in Dubai would be a promising idea. Despite its high demand, it is economically viable to operate and requires little up-front capital. It is a great business to get into because it can grow even from a one-person operation to a multi-million-strong chain.

What’s more, when you start a UAE building cleaning business with the help of Meydan Free Zone, you can be up and running in no time. Our team are experts in business setup in Dubai and can help you with licensing visas and much more.

START YOUR CLEANING COMPANY NOW WITH AED 1,042 PER MONTH

Different Types of Cleaning Services in Dubai

Dubai’s cleaning services typically include residential, commercial, and industrial cleaning and are further subdivided into individual special activities. Your cleaning company license in Dubai will depend on what type of cleaning services your business offers.

You can include sub-business activities in your cleaning services license in Dubai. These activities are as follows:

• Streets Cleaning Services License
• Sea & Shore Cleaning Services License
• Building Cleaning Services License
• Advertising Signboards Cleaning Services License
• Runways & Roads Cleaning Services License
• Yacht Cleaning Services License
• Car Cleaning License

Steps To Get A Building Cleaning License

Let’s get straight to the point – what is the process for starting a cleaning company in the UAE?

Steps To Get A Building Cleaning License

• • Research And Analyze The Market
  • Decide What Type Of Company You Want
  • Get Trade Name Approval
  • Build Your Cleaning License Application
  • Rent An Appropriate Location
  • Complete The Documentation And Acquire A License
  • Set Up A Bank Account

Research And Analyze The Market

Understanding your target market will help you identify your rivals, evaluate potential clients, and determine what services you can offer them. Make sure your cleaning company has a solid business strategy since it will help it grow and succeed.

Decide What Type Of Company You Want

In this step, you must clearly outline your planned business activities. There are several types of cleaning services that you may offer in Dubai. These include industrial cleaning, commercial cleaning, and residential cleaning.

Your license application must clearly state all services you offer, no matter how few or many.

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Get Trade Name Approval

The UAE has a set of naming parameters you’ll need to stick to. It is mandatory to submit 3 trade name options. One of these three will be approved by the government. Avoid using abbreviations and controversial words in the trade name for a hassle-free registration procedure. Essentially, you should avoid blasphemous and offensive language and the names of well-known organizations. There are a few more rules too, which we will cover in your initial consultation.

Build Your Cleaning License Application

Next, we will help you make your building cleaning license application. You can do this at Meydan Free Zone.

When making your application, you will need to submit an application form containing details about your business and its shareholders and proof of address and identification.

BOOK A FREE CONSULTATION WITH OUR EXPERTS

If you intend to operate your business from the UAE, you will also require a visa. As part of this process, you’ll need to undergo a fitness, blood, and chest x-ray. You can also sponsor the access of others, such as dependent children and parents, your spouse, and any domestic staff.

Once you get the initial approval from the government of UAE to start your cleaning services company, you should connect with a local ser vice agent and sign the LSA agreement. You can then draft and sign the MoA.

Rent An Appropriate Location

Locate your company in an area that is highly active and visible to the public. Consider setting up your cleaning business in a commercial area with corporate buildings, offices, or suburbs. There is always a need for frequent cleaning in these places.

Once you have chosen your location, get the tenancy contract and your unique Ejari number for future reference.

Complete The Documentation And Acquire A License

Having completed all the above, you must complete your documentation and get all the required approvals from the Dubai Municipality and DET, formerly DED. In addition to that, acquire necessary permissions and valid visas. After you have got all the approvals from the concerned legal authorities, pay the required fee and get your business license.

Set Up A Bank Account

Finally, if you are getting paid in the UAE, you’ll need a UAE bank account. Meydan Free Zone can help with this step, too, advising on the right bank for your circumstances.

GET YOUR ZERO-BALANCE BUSINESS ACCOUNT

How to Register your Cleaning Company in Dubai Municipality

Dubai municipality offers a straightforward registration process for cleaning companies. Here are the steps you need to follow:

1. Register yourself as a customer on Dubai Municipality’s official website. After successfully creating the account, log in with the same credentials.
2. Once you have logged in, click on the ‘Company Registration’ tab, where the registration page will appear.
3. Fill in all the mandatory fields of the form. Don’t forget to tick the ‘Security’ check box at the button on your screen.
4. Double-check all the information you have provided and click on ‘Register’.
5. Once your registration is processed successfully, you will get an email confirmation from the Dubai municipality.
6. You must have the company’s logo files, trading license, etc., ready to upload.

Cost Of A Building Cleaning License

The cost of business setup in Dubai can be challenging to gauge. Many factors are at play, from the size of your operation to the type of services you intend to offer. Then there is your chosen location.

The cost of licenses and premises can differ significantly depending on whether you set up in the mainland or a free zone. However, in almost all cases, a free zone setup is the more affordable option.

Many free zones, including Meydan Free Zone, offer license packages inclusive of visa costs. We also provide a smooth registration process with access to priority government relations assistance, onboard support services, and tailored packages designed to address your individual business needs.

START YOUR BUSINESS NOW WITH AN INSTANT IBAN

Take Your Business To New Heights At Meydan Free Zone

Award-winning Meydan Free Zone is one of the most prestigious business addresses in the region. Our mission at Meydan Free Zone is to assist companies in establishing themselves and growing into profitable businesses. Located in The Meydan Hotel, the Free Zone is 15 minutes from Dubai International Airport and has convenient access to Downtown Dubai and Sheikh Zayed Road.

We offer our businesses a host of innovative investment and lifestyle benefits in a secure, regulated environment that empowers productivity. And we can help you join them too.

Our expert team can assist the entire company formation journey, from registering your company name to managing your license and visa applications.

To find out more, visit our website, or get in touch with us via setup@meydanfz.ae or 800FZ1.

Dubai is famed around the world and is a trade and logistics hub. Few goods do not pass through the UAE in the form of imports and exports, from food and beverages to minerals, tobacco, technology, and textiles.

Another thriving trade out here is auto spare parts. Thanks to the UAE’s incredible location and world-class infrastructure, our auto aftermarket industry is estimated to be worth almost USD 320m and is predicted to grow at a CAGR of 14.8% up to 2025.

A growing market like the UAE presents an incredible opportunity for those skilled and resourceful enough to trade in it. And when you start a UAE business with the help of Meydan Free Zone, starting an auto spare parts trading company can be quick and easy. Our team are experts in business setup in Dubai and can help you with licensing visas and much more.

Benefits of starting an auto spare parts trading business in Dubai, UAE

Dubai is home to one of the most thriving vehicle re-export markets in the Middle East and one of the largest tire trading industries.

It is also primed for global trade. Direct links by road, sea, and air, incredible transport and logistics infrastructure, and tried and tested import and export processes are just some of the reasons.

You will also benefit from the UAE’s tax rate of 0% on personal income when you trade out here. And there are more advantages when you start your trading business in a UAE Free Zone. These include 100% customs tax exemption and the freedom to repatriate capital and profits, and 0% on corporate tax.

The procedure to get an auto spare parts trading license in Dubai

Setting up in a free zone is almost always the most straightforward and cost-effective way to start an auto spare parts trading business in the UAE. And when you establish your business at Meydan Free Zone, our expert team can guide you through the following company formation process.

We will get the ball rolling by helping you choose and register your company name. The UAE has a very clear set of naming parameters that you’ll need to stick to. But don’t worry; all are straightforward and largely common sense. Essentially, you should avoid blasphemous and offensive language and the names of well-known organisations. There are a few more rules too, which we will cover in your initial consultation.

Once this early decision is successfully navigated, your dedicated contact will assist you through the UAE Trade License application process. During this process, you will be asked to submit a completed application form on an online portal containing details about your business and its shareholders and proof of address and identification. You will complete your KYC and UBO process, and if your spare part trading requires any third-party approvals from internal ministries, experts at Meydan Free Zone will help you sort out all the legal permits.

You will also require a residency visa to reside in and run your business from the UAE. As part of this process, you’ll need to undergo a fitness, blood, and chest x-ray. You can also sponsor the visas of others, such as dependent children and parents, your spouse, and any domestic staff.

Finally, all UAE businesses require a corporate bank account. Meydan Free Zone can help with this step, too, advising on the right financial institution for your needs and circumstances.

Documents required to get an auto spare parts trading license

When applying to start an auto spare parts trading business in the UAE, you may be required to submit any of the following documents:

• Completed application form on online portal
• Coloured passport copies of the company’s shareholders, managers, and directors
• Specimen signature of the company’s shareholders, managers, and directors

Dubai auto spare parts trading license costs

A spare parts auto trading license in Meydan Free Zone starts at AED 12,500, and our experts can draw out a customized proposal based on the number of visas.

Take your business to new heights at Meydan Free Zone

Meydan Free Zone is a thriving, centrally located economic district with one of the most prestigious business addresses in the region.

We offer our businesses a host of innovative investment and lifestyle benefits in a secure, regulated environment that empowers productivity. And we can help you join them too.

Our expert team can assist you across the entire company formation journey, from registering your company name to managing your license and visa applications.

One of the major pull factors for the thousands of businesses setting up in Dubai every year is the Emirate’s minimal bureaucracy. But while paperwork is light on the ground out here, that’s not to say there aren’t plenty of processes that require an expert eye.

Many companies in the UAE are required to submit annual accounts, while others keep up-to-date books for their records. The reason behind filing books is often not a job undertaken internally. This is particularly true among smaller businesses and startups. Due to this, bookkeepers and accountants with skills in preparing and filing regular accounts are in high demand.

Company formation in the UAE also requires expertise to ensure a fast and straightforward process.

And when you start a UAE business with the help of Meydan Free Zone, you can be up and running in no time. Our team are experts in business setup in Dubai and can help you with licensing visas and much more.

Benefits of starting an accounting & bookkeeping business in Dubai, UAE

Dubai is home to hundreds of thousands of businesses, so one of the most significant benefits of starting an accounting & bookkeeping business out here is demand.

The UAE population is also over 80% expatriate, so many of the country’s business owners are not familiar with its financial and tax customs. Many entrepreneurs partner with local experts when operating overseas for added peace of mind.

Then, of course, the UAE’s attractive tax rate of 0% on corporate and personal income. And there are more benefits for free zone companies, too, including 100% customs tax exemption and the freedom to repatriate capital and profits. 

How to start an accounting & bookkeeping business in Dubai

At Meydan Free Zone, we can guide you through the following company formation process.

First, we’ll help you choose and register your company name.

The UAE has a very clear set of naming parameters that you’ll need to stick to. But don’t worry; all are straightforward and largely common sense. Essentially, you should avoid blasphemous and offensive language and the names of well-known organisations. We will also cover a few more rules in your initial consultation.

When setting up in the UAE, it is also important to align your business practices to the list of permitted activities. So, if you plan on opening a bookkeeping, accountant, or related business such as tax or audit consultancy, this must be clearly stated on your license. You may include multiple business activities and can add more after your application. You can choose up to 3 groups of business activities on your license, allowing you to cover all aspects of your business undertaking.

With this early part of the process successfully navigated, we can help you apply for your accounting business license. There are a couple of common ways to do this.

When applying for your accounting business license, you must submit your application form via an online portal containing details about your business and its shareholders and proof of address and identification.

If you intend on operating your business from the UAE, you will also require a visa. As part of this process, you will be required to undergo a fitness test, blood test, and chest x-ray. You can also sponsor the visas of others, such as dependent children and parents, your spouse, and any domestic staff.

Finally, if you’re getting paid in the UAE, you’ll need a corporate bank account. Meydan Free Zone can help with this step, too, advising on the right financial institution for your needs and circumstances.

The requirements to open an accounting & bookkeeping company in Dubai 

Accounting and bookkeeping are regulated in the UAE, where the license holder is a subject matter expert. That’s why you’ll also need relevant qualifications and certifications along with your trade license.

For example, if you plan on working as an accountant, you would need to hold a degree in accounting or a related subject from a respected institution.

The cost of starting an accounting & bookkeeping business in Dubai 

The cost of creating an accounting firm in Dubai will depend on many factors. Your business location, activities, and size will all play a part. With Meydan Free Zone, the license cost starts at AED 12,500, which is only AED 35 per day.

Take your business to new heights at Meydan Free Zone

Meydan Free Zone is a thriving, centrally located economic district with one of the most prestigious business addresses in the region.

Take your business to new heights at Meydan Free Zone

Meydan Free Zone is a thriving, centrally located economic district with one of the most prestigious business addresses in the region.

Premier location

Being at one of the most sought-after centrally located commercial addresses in Dubai puts you minutes away from major pulse points, plus the city’s vital commercial and financial hubs.

Easy startup

Benefit from a smooth registration process with access to priority government relations assistance and broad support services tailored to address your individual business needs.

A great place to live and work

Take advantage of the unique opportunity to live and work in Meydan’s premium mixed-use developments offering innovative office spaces that encourage business growth.

Membership of the Meydan Group Enjoy unparalleled benefits, including access to a fully equipped business centre, luxurious hotel accommodations and the group’s comprehensive support network.

Calculate your setup cost now and save AED 4,000