What documents does a Bangladeshi national need to start a fintech business in the UAE?

You will need a valid Bangladesh passport (minimum 6 months validity), passport-sized photos, proof of address in Bangladesh, attested documents via Bangladesh Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and a business plan for your fintech venture.

How long does it take for a Bangladeshi citizen to set up a fintech company in Meydan?

The complete process — from initial application to trade licence issuance — typically takes 2–5 business days. Adding visa processing and bank account opening, the total timeline is approximately 12–22 business days.

Can a foreigner own 100% of a Fintech company in Meydan Free Zone?

Yes, Meydan allows 100% foreign ownership with no requirement for a local partner or sponsor. This is one of the key advantages of establishing your business in this jurisdiction.

What are the annual renewal costs for a Fintech business in Meydan Free Zone?

The annual licence renewal for a Fintech Meydan company costs approximately AED 9,950, which covers the trade licence fee. Additional annual costs may include office space rental, visa renewal, and establishment card fees. IBA provides renewal services to ensure uninterrupted business operations.

How long does it take to get a Fintech licence in Meydan?

The typical processing time for a fintech licence at Meydan is 2 business days, subject to document completeness and any regulatory approvals. As a regulated activity requiring DFSA/VARA approval, additional time of 1-3 weeks may be required.

Can I open a corporate bank account with my Meydan Fintech licence?

Yes, with a valid trade licence from Meydan, you can open a corporate bank account at any UAE bank. Free zone companies can bank with most major UAE banks including Emirates NBD, ADCB, RAKBank, and Mashreq. IBA assists with introductions and documentation for smooth bank account opening.

What documents do I need to set up a Fintech business in Meydan?

The standard documents required include: passport copies of all shareholders, passport-sized photographs, a completed application form, a business plan or activity description, and proof of address. As a regulated activity, you will also need to provide professional qualifications or certifications required by DFSA/VARA. IBA handles all document preparation and submission on your behalf.

Free ZoneFinancialRegulated Activity

Fintech in Meydan

Starting From

AED 9,950

Setup Time

2 Business Days

Visa Quota

3 Visas

Location

Dubai

About Fintech

The UAE continues to attract Bangladeshi entrepreneurs seeking to tap into the Middle Eastern market, and Meydan is one of the most popular jurisdictions for fintech operations. Fourth-largest expatriate community in the UAE (~700,000), which means you will find an established support network, community events, and nationality-specific resources to help your business thrive.

Operating from Meydan Free Zone gives your Fintech business access to Dubai's world-class infrastructure, including modern office facilities such as flexi desk, shared office, private office and excellent connectivity. As a regulated activity, you will need approval from DFSA/VARA before commencing operations, but IBA's team handles this process seamlessly on your behalf.

IBA International has been helping entrepreneurs set up fintech businesses in Meydan Free Zone since 2004. Our team of incorporation specialists will guide you through every step, from initial consultation to licence issuance and bank account opening, ensuring a smooth and efficient setup experience.

Why Meydan for Fintech?

Choosing Meydan for your fintech business comes with a host of strategic advantages that directly impact your bottom line and growth potential.

The jurisdiction offers competitive pricing, which is particularly valuable for fintech operations. Additionally, prestigious meydan address ensures that your business remains competitive in the regional market. As a free zone entity, your business enjoys complete repatriation of profits and capital, with no currency restrictions on transactions. Office solutions start from AED 4,000 per year for a flexi desk, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes. The standard licence includes a visa quota of 3 residency visas, with options to increase this number as your team grows. Fast setup process further enhances the appeal of Meydan for fintech professionals. Furthermore, 100% foreign ownership positions your fintech business for long-term success in the region. With Dubai continuing to invest in infrastructure and business-friendly regulation, Meydan remains an excellent choice for both start-ups and established financial enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.

For Bangladeshi nationals specifically, the Dubai government has fostered a business-friendly environment with streamlined processes that cater to the large Bangladeshi business community.

Competitive pricing

Prestigious Meydan address

Fast setup process

100% foreign ownership

Growing free zone community

Visa Requirements for Bangladeshi Nationals

Bangladeshi nationals require a pre-arranged UAE visa. Employment or investor visa is processed through the company after incorporation. Once your fintech licence is issued by Meydan, IBA will process your residence visa application, Emirates ID, and medical fitness tests. The entire process typically takes 7–14 business days from licence approval to visa stamping.

Banking for Bangladeshi Business Owners

Bangladeshi entrepreneurs can open corporate accounts with standard documentation. Some banks may require additional proof of business activity. For your fintech business in Meydan, IBA recommends opening a corporate account with a bank that has experience serving Bangladeshi business owners. We will prepare your banking file including the trade licence, shareholder documents, business plan, and any Bangladesh-specific attestations required.

Document Attestation for Bangladeshi Nationals

Bangladeshi nationals setting up a business in the UAE will need to attest certain documents through Bangladesh Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This typically includes your passport copy, educational certificates (if applicable for fintech), and any existing business documents. The attestation must then be verified by the UAE Embassy in Abu Dhabi before submission to Meydan.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid Bangladesh passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by Bangladesh Ministry of Foreign Affairs

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

4Completed application form for trade licence

5Proof of residential address (utility bill or bank statement)

6Passport-sized photographs with white background

7Professional qualification certificates or approvals from DFSA/VARA

8Proposed company name (2-3 alternatives)

Regulatory Note: Fintech is a regulated activity in the UAE. Additional approval from DFSA/VARA is required. IBA can guide you through the full regulatory process.

Cost Breakdown

Item	Cost (AED)
License Fee	9,950
Visa Package (per visa)	4,000
Flexi Desk	4,000
Shared Office	8,000
Private Office	20,000
Estimated Total (Year 1)	From AED 17,950

* Costs are indicative and subject to change. Contact IBA for a personalised quote.

Setup Timeline

Consultation

Free consultation with IBA to discuss your fintech business plan and the best Meydan licence options for Bangladeshi nationals.

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from Bangladesh through Bangladesh Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the UAE Embassy.

Licence Application

Submit the fintech licence application to Meydan. IBA handles all paperwork and government interactions.

Trade Licence Issued

Receive your official Meydan trade licence within 2–5 business days.

Visa Processing

Process your UAE residence visa, Emirates ID, and medical fitness. Bangladeshi nationals require a pre-arranged UAE visa.

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. Bangladeshi entrepreneurs can open corporate accounts with standard documentation.

Start Operations

Your fintech business is ready to operate in the UAE. IBA provides ongoing PRO, accounting, and compliance support.

Total estimated time: 2 business days. IBA handles the entire process end-to-end so you can focus on your business.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Meydan allows 100% foreign ownership for all nationalities, including Bangladeshi nationals. No local sponsor or partner is required.

Fintech in Other Jurisdictions

SHAMS

From AED 6,150

RAKEZ

From AED 7,500

DIFC

From AED 12,000

Abu Dhabi DED

From AED 10,000

JAFZA

From AED 16,000

Dubai DED

From AED 12,000

DMCC

From AED 15,300

IFZA

From AED 11,750