Innovation and sustainability are at the forefront of the business set-up arena in 2021, with vertical farming, cloud kitchen and fintech-related businesses among the most popular sectors for new company registrations in Dubai, according to Meydan Free Zone.

Government initiatives to encourage entrepreneurship, the opening of Expo 2020 and the effects of the pandemic have created a huge appetite for company set ups in the emirate, with innovative food production business, such as controlled environment agriculture and cloud kitchens, among the top businesses to be registered this year. 

The latest research from Meydan Free Zone also shows that Indian and Pakistani top the list of nationalities registering new business, followed by entrepreneurs from the United Kingdom, Egypt, Lebanon, Nigeria, Kenya, Russia and Italy.

Recent government initiatives, such as reducing the cost of start-up procedures and the introduction of the freelance visa, are encouraging more businessmen and women to take the plunge and establish a company of their own.

Omar Khoory, Chief Assets Officer, Meydan, said: “Our vision for Meydan Free Zone is to further stimulate the economy by attracting more foreign direct investment into the UAE, as well as supporting start-ups and championing entrepreneurship locally.  We are proud to play a key role in enhancing Dubai’s position as a leading hub for trade by attracting business owners who are committed to commercial growth and success.”

Since being established in 2009 to create an empowering, vibrant, strategically-located environment for ambitious businesspeople, Meydan Free Zone has become a world-class innovation hub that promotes diversification and entrepreneurship by offering top-flight set up facilities and amenities to local and international entrepreneurs, particular those focused on innovation and sustainability.

Expo 2020 and the peak travel season upon will bring an influx of tourists and investors to the UAE over the coming months, offering a prime opportunity for businesses to capitalise on potential customer and investors from all corners of the globe.

Meydan Free Zone forms part of the Meydan master development, a sprawling, mixed-use community that is home to luxury villas, high-end residences, the world’s largest manmade lagoon and a wealth of hospitality and leisure attractions.

Located at The Meydan Hotel in the heart of Dubai and just 15 minutes from Dubai International Airport, Meydan Free Zone offers a wide range of tailormade business packages and access to unrivalled amenities, including state-of-the-art offices with racecourse views, world class golf and tennis facilities, a diverse range of restaurants and superb conference facilities.

Business licenses start at AED12,500. 

For more information about business set up at Meydan Free Zone, call 800FZ1 or visit www.meydanFZ.ae.