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Software Company Setup in Dubai
A software company is defined by what the product does, not by the word software. Writing code, advising on systems, hosting other people’s data, and providing phone or payment services are different activities.
Separate the work first
- Software development and a SaaS product you own: writing, modifying, testing and supporting software.
- Custom development for a client can sit in that same programming description, including configuring software the client already has.
- IT implementation that designs a system of hardware, software and communications is Meydan’s consultancy code, even if you supply the software as part of the job.
- Technology consultancy that only plans and runs a client’s computers is not the programming code.
- Hosting and data processing for clients are excluded from Meydan’s “other IT” code. They are a different activity.
- Telecom functionality and payment functionality are not these four codes. The underlying service matters more than the fact that software is involved.
Meydan’s technology codes
Meydan says these four codes need no third-party approval and no AML registration. Publishing packaged software is excluded from programming and, on Meydan’s article, needs National Media Council permits. Standalone sale of computer hardware is a wholesale activity, not consultancy.
Meydan Free Zone only. Another authority can use a different name.
AuthorityMeydan
Activity nameComputer Programming, Consultancy and Related Activities
Code6200.00
Approval noteUmbrella. No third-party approval on this article.
AuthorityMeydan
Activity nameComputer Programming Activities
Code6201.00
Approval noteBuilding software. Excludes integrated-system design and packaged-software publishing.
AuthorityMeydan
Activity nameComputer Consultancy and Computer Facilities Management Activities
Code6202.00
Approval noteSystem design and on-site facilities. Excludes standalone hardware or software sales.
AuthorityMeydan
Activity nameOther Information Technology and Computer Service Activities
Code6209.00
Approval noteIncludes PC setup and software installation. Excludes hosting and data processing.
Where to look next
Meydan is the authority that published these codes. IT consultancy is the page for advice and implementation that is not a product you sell. Dubai mainland is worth comparing when the customers are in Dubai. Company formation is the route choice after the activity is named.