What documents does a Canadian national need to start a web development 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 web development venture.

How long does it take for a Canadian citizen to set up a web development 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 open a corporate bank account with my Meydan Web Development 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 Web Development 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. IBA handles all document preparation and submission on your behalf.

What are the tax implications for a Web Development 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.

Is Meydan Free Zone good for web development start-ups?

Meydan is one of the most start-up-friendly jurisdictions in the UAE, offering competitive pricing and prestigious meydan address. Flexible office solutions starting from AED 4,000 per year help keep initial overheads manageable.

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

Most of the setup process for a web development 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.

Free ZoneProfessional

Web Development in Meydan

Starting From

AED 9,950

Setup Time

2 Business Days

Visa Quota

3 Visas

Location

Dubai

About Web Development

As a Canadian national looking to establish a Web Development 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 Web Development 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 web development 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 Web Development?

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

The jurisdiction offers competitive pricing, which is particularly valuable for web development 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 web development professionals. Furthermore, 100% foreign ownership positions your web development 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

Canadian nationals can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 days. For business setup, a residence visa is processed after company incorporation. Once your web development 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 Canadian Business Owners

Canadian nationals generally experience smooth corporate bank account opening. Strong Canadian-UAE relations facilitate banking processes. For your web development business in Meydan, IBA recommends opening a corporate account with a bank that has experience serving Canadian business owners. We will prepare your banking file including the trade licence, shareholder documents, business plan, and any Canada-specific attestations required.

Document Attestation for Canadian Nationals

Canadian nationals setting up a business in the UAE will need to attest certain documents through Global Affairs Canada / Provincial Authentication. This typically includes your passport copy, educational certificates (if applicable for web development), 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 Canada passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by Global Affairs Canada / Provincial Authentication

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

4Signed application form from Meydan authority

5Proposed company name (2-3 alternatives)

6Proof of residential address (utility bill or bank statement)

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

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

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 web development 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 web development 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 web development 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.

Web Development 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