What documents does a Canadian national need to start a logistics business in the UAE?

You will need a valid Canada passport (minimum 6 months validity), passport-sized photos, proof of address in Canada, attested documents via Global Affairs Canada / Provincial Authentication, and a business plan for your logistics venture.

How long does it take for a Canadian citizen to set up a logistics 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.

What are the tax implications for a Logistics business in Meydan Free Zone?

The UAE introduced a 9% corporate tax on profits exceeding AED 375,000 (effective June 2023). Free zone companies like those in Meydan may qualify for a 0% corporate tax rate on qualifying income, provided they meet the substance requirements and do not conduct business with the mainland. There is no personal income tax in the UAE. VAT at 5% applies to most goods and services.

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

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

What business activities can I include on my Meydan licence?

Your Meydan licence can include logistics as the primary activity, along with related activities that fall under the same category. Most free zones allow multiple activities on a single licence, though some may charge a small fee for additional activities. IBA advises on the optimal activity selection for your business needs.

Can I open a corporate bank account with my Meydan Logistics 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.

How much does it cost to set up a Logistics business in Meydan Free Zone?

The total setup cost for a Logistics business in Meydan starts from approximately AED 9,950 for the trade licence. Additional costs include visa processing (AED 4,000 per visa), office space, and establishment card fees. IBA provides a detailed cost breakdown during your free consultation.

Free ZoneTransportRegulated Activity

Logistics in Meydan

Starting From

AED 9,950

Setup Time

2 Business Days

Visa Quota

3 Visas

Location

Dubai

About Logistics

As a Canadian national looking to establish a Logistics business in Meydan Free Zone, the UAE offers one of the most welcoming environments for international entrepreneurs. Canada has strong bilateral trade relations with the UAE, and thousands of Canadian professionals have already successfully set up businesses across the emirates.

As a free zone entity regulated under Dubai's commercial laws, your Logistics business will benefit from competitive pricing and prestigious meydan address. The Meydan licensing framework is designed to accommodate both start-ups and established firms, with annual licence fees starting from approximately AED 9,950.

With over two decades of experience in UAE business formation, IBA International provides end-to-end support for your logistics setup in Meydan. Our dedicated advisors handle the paperwork, government liaisons, and compliance requirements, so you can focus on building your business from day one.

Why Meydan for Logistics?

There are several compelling reasons why Meydan Free Zone continues to attract logistics entrepreneurs from around the world.

The jurisdiction offers competitive pricing, which is particularly valuable for logistics 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 logistics professionals. Furthermore, 100% foreign ownership positions your logistics 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 transport enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.

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

Competitive pricing

Prestigious Meydan address

Fast setup process

100% foreign ownership

Growing free zone community

Visa Requirements for Canadian Nationals

For Canadian entrepreneurs, the visa process works as follows: Canadian nationals can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 days. For business setup, a residence visa is processed after company incorporation. IBA handles the complete immigration procedure — from entry permit to residence visa stamping — so you can focus on launching your logistics business in Meydan.

Banking for Canadian Business Owners

Opening a corporate bank account for your logistics company in Meydan: Canadian nationals generally experience smooth corporate bank account opening. Strong Canadian-UAE relations facilitate banking processes. IBA has established relationships with major UAE banks and will personally introduce you to relationship managers who understand Canadian business structures.

Document Attestation for Canadian Nationals

Document attestation for Canadian nationals involves: (1) Notarisation in Canada, (2) Attestation by Global Affairs Canada / Provincial Authentication, (3) UAE Embassy attestation in Dubai. IBA provides a complete attestation checklist specific to logistics businesses to ensure nothing is missed.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid Canada passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by Global Affairs Canada / Provincial Authentication

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

4Detailed business plan or activity description

5Passport-sized photographs with white background

6Signed application form from Meydan authority

7Professional qualification certificates or approvals from RTA

8Passport copies of all shareholders and directors (valid for at least 6 months)

Regulatory Note: Logistics is a regulated activity in the UAE. Additional approval from RTA 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 logistics business plan and the best Meydan licence options for Canadian nationals.

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from Canada through Global Affairs Canada / Provincial Authentication and the UAE Embassy.

Licence Application

Submit the logistics 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. Canadian nationals can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 days.

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. Canadian nationals generally experience smooth corporate bank account opening.

Start Operations

Your logistics 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 Canadian nationals. No local sponsor or partner is required.

Logistics 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