What documents does a Canadian national need to start a photography 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 photography venture.

How long does it take for a Canadian citizen to set up a photography 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 I get a residence visa with my Photography licence from Meydan?

Yes, your photography licence from Meydan entitles you to apply for residence visas. The standard package includes 3 visa(s), with the option to apply for additional visas based on your office space. Each visa costs approximately AED 4,000.

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

The annual licence renewal for a Photography 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 much does it cost to set up a Photography business in Meydan Free Zone?

The total setup cost for a Photography 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.

Do I need to be physically present in the UAE to set up a Photography company in Meydan?

Most of the setup process for a photography business in Meydan can be completed remotely, with documents submitted online or via courier. However, you may need to visit the UAE for Emirates ID biometrics and bank account opening. IBA can coordinate to minimise your required visits.

Can a foreigner own 100% of a Photography 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.

Free ZoneProfessional

Photography in Meydan

Starting From

AED 9,950

Setup Time

2 Business Days

Visa Quota

3 Visas

Location

Dubai

About Photography

Setting up a Photography business in Meydan Free Zone as a Canadian citizen is a straightforward process when you understand the specific requirements that apply to Canada-based entrepreneurs. IBA International has helped hundreds of Canadian business owners navigate the licensing, visa, and banking procedures unique to their nationality.

The licensing process at Meydan has been streamlined significantly, with most professional licences processed within 2 business days. As a free zone entity, you will enjoy 100% foreign ownership with no requirement for a local sponsor. The base licence fee is approximately AED 9,950, making it one of the most affordable options in the UAE.

At IBA International, we simplify the process of establishing your photography business in Meydan Free Zone. From selecting the right licence type to securing your visa and opening a corporate bank account, our experienced team ensures every detail is handled professionally and efficiently.

Why Meydan for Photography?

Meydan Free Zone is widely regarded as one of the UAE's premier destinations for professional businesses, and for good reason.

The jurisdiction offers competitive pricing, which is particularly valuable for photography 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 photography professionals. Furthermore, 100% foreign ownership positions your photography 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 professional 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 photography business in Meydan.

Banking for Canadian Business Owners

Opening a corporate bank account for your photography 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 photography 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

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

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

7Entry stamp or valid UAE visa copy (if applying from within the UAE)

8Completed application form for trade licence

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 photography 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 photography 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 photography 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.

Photography 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