Pharmacy in Meydan Free Zone for American nationals
Free ZoneHealthcareRegulated Activity

Pharmacy in Meydan

Starting From

AED 9,950

Setup Time

2 Business Days

Visa Quota

3 Visas

Location

Dubai

About Pharmacy

The UAE continues to attract American entrepreneurs seeking to tap into the Middle Eastern market, and Meydan is one of the most popular jurisdictions for pharmacy operations. Growing American business community (~50,000), 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 Pharmacy 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 DHA before commencing operations, but IBA's team handles this process seamlessly on your behalf.

IBA International has been helping entrepreneurs set up pharmacy 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 Pharmacy?

Choosing Meydan for your pharmacy 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 pharmacy 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 pharmacy professionals. Furthermore, 100% foreign ownership positions your pharmacy 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 healthcare enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.

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

Competitive pricing
Prestigious Meydan address
Fast setup process
100% foreign ownership
Growing free zone community

Visa Requirements for American Nationals

US citizens can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 days. A residence visa is processed after company formation for long-term business operations. Once your pharmacy 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 American Business Owners

US nationals face additional FATCA compliance requirements when opening UAE corporate accounts. IBA assists with the additional documentation required. For your pharmacy business in Meydan, IBA recommends opening a corporate account with a bank that has experience serving American business owners. We will prepare your banking file including the trade licence, shareholder documents, business plan, and any United States-specific attestations required.

Document Attestation for American Nationals

American nationals setting up a business in the UAE will need to attest certain documents through US Department of State / Secretary of State. This typically includes your passport copy, educational certificates (if applicable for pharmacy), 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 United States passport (minimum 6 months validity)
2Documents attested by US Department of State / Secretary of State
3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi
4Completed application form for trade licence
5Proof of residential address (utility bill or bank statement)
6Entry stamp or valid UAE visa copy (if applying from within the UAE)
7Professional qualification certificates or approvals from DHA
8Proposed company name (2-3 alternatives)

Regulatory Note: Pharmacy is a regulated activity in the UAE. Additional approval from DHA is required. IBA can guide you through the full regulatory process.

Cost Breakdown

ItemCost (AED)
License Fee9,950
Visa Package (per visa)4,000
Flexi Desk4,000
Shared Office8,000
Private Office20,000
Estimated Total (Year 1)From AED 17,950

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

Setup Timeline

1

Consultation

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

2

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from United States through US Department of State / Secretary of State and the UAE Embassy.

3

Licence Application

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

4

Trade Licence Issued

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

5

Visa Processing

Process your UAE residence visa, Emirates ID, and medical fitness. US citizens can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 days.

6

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. US nationals face additional FATCA compliance requirements when opening UAE corporate accounts.

7

Start Operations

Your pharmacy 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 American nationals. No local sponsor or partner is required.

Get Started Today

Ready to set up your pharmacy in Meydan? Our team is here to help.

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Quick Facts

JurisdictionMeydan
TypeFree Zone
EmirateDubai
License FeeAED 9,950
Setup Time2 days
Visa Quota3
Activity Code86300

Official Source

www.meydanfz.ae

By IBA Business Setup Team

Last updated: 26 February 2026

International Business Advisors DMCC has been helping entrepreneurs set up businesses in the UAE since 2004, with 20+ years of hands-on expertise.

Ready to Start Your Pharmacy?

Get a personalised quote for setting up your pharmacy in Meydan. Our advisors are ready to guide you through every step.