IFZA vs Meydan (2026)
The two most-searched Dubai free zones for service and consultancy businesses. Both give a Dubai address at a similar price; the difference is speed, activity breadth and packaging.
Last updated: July 2026 · Verified against Authority packages 2026Key facts
- ●Meydan from ~AED 12,500; fastest setup, licence in about an hour via Fawri.
- ●IFZA from ~AED 12,900; flexible packages, strong for trading and holding too.
- ●Both are Dubai-issued with good banking relationships.
- ●Meydan supports 2,500+ activities under one licence.
Quick verdict: pick Meydan for the fastest, broadest single-licence setup; pick IFZA for flexible packages and a slightly stronger fit for trading and holding structures. For most service and consulting businesses, either is a solid Dubai home.
Cost
They are close: Meydan from about AED 12,500, IFZA from about AED 12,900. Price is rarely the deciding factor between these two; fit is.
Speed and activities
Meydan is the speed leader, issuing a straightforward licence in about an hour, and supports over 2,500 activities on one licence. IFZA offers flexible, package-based setup and is a strong all-rounder for service, trading and holding companies.
Banking
Both are Dubai-issued and carry good banking relationships, which is their shared advantage over cheaper Northern Emirates zones. If banking ease is your priority, either beats a budget zone.
Which to pick
Consultants and lean service firms: Meydan for speed, IFZA for package flexibility. Trading and holding: IFZA edges it. Run the matcher to confirm against your activity and visa needs.
Frequently asked questions
Is IFZA or Meydan cheaper?
Which is faster to set up?
Sources
- IFZA and Meydan published packages 2026
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