MEYDAN Free Zone permits activities across four umbrella categories. Each license covers one activity by default; additional activities in the same category are AED 1,000 ($270) each. Cross-category activities require a separate license.
Category 1: Media
Publishing (books, magazines, digital), content production, video/film production, PR, advertising, digital marketing agencies, social media management, event management, photography, graphic design studios. Regulated activities like broadcasting or news publishing require additional NMC (National Media Council) approval.
Category 2: Consultancy & Professional Services
Management consulting, HR consulting, IT consulting, tax advisory (non-audit), legal consultancy (non-litigation), coaching (executive, life, business), corporate training, e-learning platforms, education consulting (K-12 or higher-ed advisory), engineering consulting (non-signed drawings). Regulated: legal practice requires DED-registered advocate; medical consultancy requires MOH/DHA licensure.
Category 3: Trading & E-commerce
General trading (import/export of non-restricted goods), online store operations, drop-shipping (with warehouse-of-record disclosure to DDA), commodities trading (non-regulated), fashion & apparel, electronics, sporting goods, cosmetics (with SFDA registration if selling in KSA). Restricted: food/beverage requires Dubai Municipality Food Control approval; alcohol requires additional Ministry of Interior permit; medical devices require MOHAP.
Category 4: Holding Company
Pure investment vehicle — cannot conduct operational business. Cheapest tier at AED 12,500 flat, no activities-per-license limit (holds are considered "financial" activity umbrella). Used for family offices, single-purpose SPVs, and treasury vehicles for group entities.
What is Not Allowed at MEYDAN
- Financial services (banking, forex brokerage, asset management) — DFSA or CBUAE required.
- Insurance underwriting or brokerage — CBUAE required.
- Healthcare provision — MOHAP/DHA required.
- Education (K-12, university) — KHDA required.
- Food & beverage retail — Dubai Municipality.
- Aviation MRO — GCAA required (DAFZA is the right zone).